Shotokan
Shotokan — A style if Karate developed by Gichin Funakoshi
Karate
Karate is a Japanese martial arts form introduced on the main islands of Japan in the early 20th century. It is an arts form predominant for its teachings of self defense and is against random acts of violence.
Practice
This martial arts form is commonly practiced either as a sport, an art form or as a form of self defense. In the past, Karate had an emphasis on self-development and is considered the traditional way. Nowadays, the modern style incorporates several psychological elements such as, fearlessness, virtue, perseverance and leadership skills. These guidelines are taught in order to help students, not just in the dojo, but in everyday life. Training is typically categorized into three elements: kihon (basics and fundamentals), kata (formalized sequence of movements) and kumite (sparring). The exercises were developed to increase speed, stamina, strength, flexibility, power, agility, muscle coordination and stress management. Karate represents both offense and defense positions used for the purpose of application in real life combat situations.
Founder
The one credited as the founder of Shotokan karate is Gichin Funakoshi. Funakoshi was born on November 10, 1868 and died on April 26, 1957. He believed that “kara” means “to purge oneself of selfish and evil thoughts … for only with a clear mind and conscience can the practitioner understand the knowledge which he receives.” Once one is humble and patient, then they become open to the possibilities of Karate. Funakoshi believed courtesy to be the most important attribute that one could have. He has said, “Karate is properly applied only in those rare situations in which one really must either down another or be downed by him.”
Tournaments
Despite not being a competitive sport, tournaments are held for the purpose of showcasing this marital arts form to the public and also to expose students to different styles. They are often times held annually by different organizations and federations.
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