KARATE

KARA = EMPTY TE = HAND

KARATE = EMPTY HAND

All Martial Arts are said to have originated some 3,000 years ago somewhere between India and China. A monk called Bhudaharma devised a training system after studying the defensive and attacking characteristics of animals and insects. Essentially a defensive art, it was used by the nonaggressive monks to counter frequent attacks from robbers and thugs. The Shaolin temple was thought to be the first Dojo of the Martial Arts and it continues to flourish to this day.
The Japanese art of Karate was founded in Okinawa and is probably derived horn the Chinese systems. Okinawan Karate is the basis of most of the modem styles practiced, each having its own variations, in particular the stances.

SHUKOKAI, or "correct way", was developed by two Japanese martial artists, Sensei's Shigaru Kimura and Tani. One of the particular features of the style is the use of punching pads, which were introduced by Sensei Kimura with a view to improving the technique and power of punching and kicking.

After the Second World war, Martial Arts were more widely introduced to the Western World and have continued to develop here, many different styles emerging, although the two main systems are still Karate (Japanese) and Kung Fu (Chinese).

Benefits Gained horn Martial Arts Training:

The benefits to be gained from martial arts training are many and varied, but the most obvious are as follows;

a)     Self Discipline

b)     Self-Confidence. This should be apparent in everyday life, in your manner towards others and attitude towards 
        living.

c)     Awareness of others. Respect and consideration for elders (traditional in Japanese and Chinese society)

d)     Physical Attributes. Agility, Strength, Flexibility, Stamina and general fitness.

Put all of this together and you have a healthy mind and body. One who practices and is dedicated. to the "Art of the empty hand" becomes a whole person.