Karate Facts Overload

When you hear or think of karate, you probably see the white uniform, black belt and a person shouting “Hai-ya”, maybe you think back to the karate kid movies, but there is do much more to it. Those who have lived for karate have a far better grasp of it, where it came from and the history behind it. You are about to be overloaded with some karate facts, chat about them before or after your next class so you can not only look like a professional but sound like one too.

What does it mean?

“Karate” is derived from two words; the first being “kara” which means empty and the second is “te” meaning hand. When putting those words together it principally means empty hand because it focuses on battles without weapons, the student generally only uses his hands or legs. It’s a disciplined martial art that comprises of repeated, quick, energetic movements.

Where does it come from?

In its original form, it started on the island of Okinawa, as a rough, basic form of fighting, which grew and was refined as it filtered its way through Japan. Dating back to the 14th century, it was born because samurai leaders had banned weapons, and the people needed to defend themselves, so they practiced hand to hand self-defense. The history of this discipline is very limited as there were laws against it, but from master to follower, it was passed down.

What are the benefits?

Not only does Karate build your strength, but it improves your discipline, attention, concentration and mobility, and a bonus is how flexible you become when practicing this martial art. You learn to protect yourself when the time comes so it’s valuable to add to your workout regime for that reason too.

Karate is a wonderful tool for children with various learning issues or self-confidence problems. For those who are a little more hyper than others, it allows them to release their pent-up energy in a positive, healthy, strengthening way. In a similar fashion, it can give a child who is picked on for being chubby, the confidence to hold his head up high, knowing that he can defend himself, and as he learns to do so he works on his physique without realizing it.

How long does it take to obtain a Black belt?

This generally takes anything from 3 to 7 years, it may take longer as people learn and master at different speeds. It is more than punching and kicking, it is a very strategic art that involves cardio as well as training the muscles and the mind. As you become stronger, you become faster and learn to focus your energy so that it is not wasted when making a move, allowing you to overcome your opponent with quick powerful jabs on areas of importance.