Karate (Japanese: “empty hand”) is a martial art that developed from Chinese martial arts and the arts of the Ryukyu Islands. Karate: Self-Defense and Training, in a general sense, is the art of self-defense using strikes, blocks, and movements. Strikes are delivered with both the hands (fists, the edge of the palm, the open hand, elbows) and the feet (feet, knees). In various styles of karate, strikes to pain points and vital areas are also taught. Also the use of grips, joint twists, locks, holds, and throws. A person who practices karate is called a karateka.
Modern karate training is usually divided into kihon (fundamentals, basic techniques), kata (formal exercises, combinations), and kumite (sparring). Another important area of training that should be mentioned is the use of weapons – kobudo. Karate is often divided into the study of it as an art, sports training and training in self-defense techniques. However, despite its long history of development, karate does not distinguish completely independent parts. For example, the aforementioned self-defense training is considered to be derived from kata and applied karate techniques. Under the influence of Japan, the emphasis in modern training is often placed on psychological aspects. These aspects should be formed into the correct kokoro of the karateka (internal state/character/attitude to life) which includes such traits as perseverance, courage, integrity and leadership qualities.
Kihon (Basics)
The importance of kihon varies in different karate styles. Typically, kihon involves a single technique (or combination of techniques) repeated by an entire group of karatekas. Kihon may also involve the use of prescribed movements by small groups, including pairs of karatekas.
Kata (Formal Complexes)
Kata, meaning formal exercise or combination, is a set sequence of techniques. These techniques include deep stances to develop leg strength and wide movements to develop posture/structure, as well as cardiovascular and upper body health and strength. Some kata are long and complex and train memory and calculation of strength.
Kata involves training and demonstrating the physical principles of combat. Kata can be considered a sequence of karate movements that correspond to various types of attack and defense under ideal conditions.
There are many types of kata. Certain kata (which vary from school to school) are used at all levels of Kyu and Dan examinations.
Kumite (Sparring)
Kumite, often called sparring. Literally, “kumite” means “meeting of hands” or “interlaced hands” and has many manifestations. In different styles of modern Karate, kumite is performed according to different rules, which are generally similar. Sparring can be either free or structured. Free sparring consists of participants occupying semi-structured stances that allow a certain level of mobility and flexibility to perform certain techniques. Structured kumite consists of the following main stages:
- Partners prepare for attack and defense.
- The attacking side announces its attack (usually stating the target of the attack and the planned reception).
- The defending party acknowledges the declared attack.
- The attacking side executes the attack.
- The defending side executes the block set for the declared attack.
These actions can be repeated with many techniques and changing sides of attack/defense.
Today, kumite is practiced in both competitive and self-defense training. Sport sparring tends to be bouts in which points are scored after each successful strike, with a brief stoppage of the bout. Sparring involving punches and kicks may also include throws and grappling, depending on the style or teacher. The level of physical contact in sparring varies greatly from a strict no-touch rule to full contact. Full-contact sparring is usually conducted in protective clothing/equipment.
Currently, about 100 million people on five continents and in 192 countries practice various styles of karate, making it a truly global sport.
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