Founded  in 1970

Karatedo  is a martial art developed in the Ryukyu Islands (Okinawa) from indigenous fighting methods te

(literally: "hand") and Chinese Kenpo.

 

Karatedo is characterised as a striking art using punching, kicking, knee and elbow strikes and open-handed techniques such as knife-hand strikes. Grappling, locks, restraints, throws, and vital point strikes are taught in some styles.

 

Shoshin Nagamine said "Karatedo may be considered as the conflict within oneself or as a life-long marathon which can be won only through self-discipline, hard training and one's own creative efforts."

 

For many practitioners, karate is a deeply philosophical practice.

Karate-do teaches ethical principles and can have spiritual significance to its adherents.

(See philosophy section)

 

Gichin Funakoshi ("Father of Modern Karate") interpreted the "kara" of Karate-do to mean "to purge [oneself] of selfish and evil thoughts. For only with a clear mind and conscience can [the practitioner] understand that [knowledge] which he receives."

 

Funakoshi believed that one should be "inwardly humble and outwardly gentle."

 

Only by behaving humbly can one be open to Karate's many lessons.