Karate 16746 225362524 2008-07-13T08:17:20Z Stynerk 7458391 {{Refimprove|date=August 2007}} {{otheruses}} {{infobox martial art | logo = Karatedo.svg | logocaption = | logosize = 60px | image = Hanashiro Chomo.jpg | imagecaption = Hanashiro Chomo | imagesize = | name = Karate<br>(空手) | aka = ''Karate-dō'' (空手道) | focus = [[Strike (attack)|Striking]] | hardness = full contact | country = {{flag|Ryūkyū Kingdom}} | creator = [[Kanga Sakukawa|Sakukawa Kanga]]; [[Sokon Matsumura|Matsumura Sokon]]; [[Anko Itosu|Itosu Anko]]; [[Gichin Funakoshi]] | parenthood = [[Chinese martial arts]], indigenous [[martial arts]] of [[Ryukyu Islands]] ([[Naha-te]], [[Shuri-te]], [[Tomari-te]]) | famous_pract = | olympic = No | website = }} {{Nihongo|'''Karate'''|空手}} ({{Audio|Karate.ogg|listen}}) or {{Nihongo|'''karate-[[Dō (Way)|do]]'''|空手道}} is a [[martial arts|martial art]] developed in the [[Ryukyu Islands]] from indigenous fighting methods<ref name="Higaonna1"/><ref name="okinawa history"/> and [[Chinese martial arts|Chinese]] [[kenpō]].<ref name="Higaonna1"> {{cite book |last = Higaonna |first = Morio |title = Traditional Karatedo Vol. 1 Fundamental Techniques |date = 1985 |isbn =0-87040-595-0 |pages = 17 }}</ref><ref name="okinawa history"> http://www.wonder-okinawa.jp/023/eng/001/001/index.html history of Okinawan Karate</ref> It is primarily a striking art using punching, kicking, knee and elbow strikes and open-handed techniques such as knife-hands and ridge-hands. [[Grappling]], locks, restraints, throws, and [[kyusho-jitsu|vital point strikes]] are taught in some styles.<ref>{{cite book |last = Bishop |first = Mark |title = Okinawan Karate |date = 1989 | |isbn =0-7136-5666-2 |pages = 153-166 }} Chapter 9 covers Motobu-ryu and Bigeikan, two 'ti' styles with grappling and vital point striking techniques. Page 165, Seitoku Higa: "Use pressure on vital points, wrist locks, grappling, strikes and kicks in a gentle manner to neutralize an attack."</ref> A karate practitioner is called a [[Karateka (martial arts)|karateka]]. == Practice == {{See also|Okinawan kobudo|Japanese martial arts#Philosophical and strategic concepts}} Karate can be practiced as [[budo]], as a [[sport]], as a [[combat sport]], or as [[self defense]] training. Traditional karate places emphasis on self development (budo).<ref>[http://www.itkf.org/tk.html International Traditional Karate Federation (ITKF)”</ref> Modern Japanese style training emphasizes the psychological elements incorporated into a proper ''kokoro'' (attitude) such as perseverance, fearlessness, virtue, and leadership skills. Sport karate places emphasis on exercise and competition. Weapons (''[[kobudō]]'') is important training activity in some styles. Karate training is commonly divided into ''[[kihon]]'' (basics or fundamentals), ''[[Kata (martial arts)|kata]]'' (forms), and ''[[kumite]]'' (sparring). === Kihon === [[Image:Motobu Choki2.jpg|thumb|[[Motobu Choki|Choki Motobu]] in Naihanchi-dachi, one of the basic karate stances]] {{main|Kihon}} Karate styles place varying importance on kihon. Typically this is performance in unison of a technique or a combination of techniques by a group of karateka. Kihon may also be prearranged drills in smaller groups or in pairs. === Kata === {{main|Karate kata}} Kata ([[wikt:型|型]]:かた) means literally "shape" or "model." Kata is a formalized sequence of movements which represent various attack and defense postures. These postures are based on idealized combat applications. Some kata use low and wide stances. This practice develops leg strength, correct posture, and gracefulness. Vigorous arm movements enhance cardiovascular fitness and upper body strength. Kata vary in number of movements and difficulty. The longer kata require the karateka to learn many complex movements. Diligent training and correct mindfulness lead to real understanding of combat principles. Kata were developed before literacy was commonplace in [[Okinawa]] or [[China]]. Physical routines were a logical way to preserve this type of knowledge. The various moves have multiple [[interpretations]] and applications. Because the applicability for actual self-defense is so flexible there is no definitively correct way to interpret all kata. That is why only high ranking practitioners are qualified to judge adequate form for their own style. Some of the criteria for judging the quality of a performance are: Absence of missteps; correct beginning and especially ending; crispness and smoothness; correct speed and power; confidence; and knowledge of application. Kata with the same name are often performed differently in other styles of karate. Kata are taught with minor variations among schools of the same style. Even the same instructor will teach a particular kata slightly differently as the years pass. To attain a formal rank the karateka must demonstrate competent performance of specific required kata for that level. The Japanese terminology for grades or ranks is commonly used. Requirements for examinations vary among schools. === Kumite === {{main|Kumite}} [[Sparring]] in Karate is called kumite (組手:くみて). It literally means "meeting of hands." Kumite is practiced both as a sport and as self-defense training. Levels of physical contact during sparring vary considerably. Full contact karate has several variants. Knockdown karate (such as [[Kyokushin]]) uses full power techniques to bring an opponent to the ground. [[Kickboxing]] variants ( for example [[K-1]]) win by knockout. Sparring in armour ([[bogu kumite]]) allows full power techniques with some safety. Sport kumite is free or structured with no-contact or light contact and points are awarded by a referee. In structured kumite (Yakusoku - ''prearranged''), two participants perform a choreographed series of techniques with one striking while the other blocks. The form ends with one devastating technique (Hito Tsuki). In free sparring (Jiyu Kumite), the two participants have a free choice of scoring techniques. The allowed techniques and contact level are usually determined by the age, rank and sex of the participants. Depending upon style, [[takedown (grappling)|take-downs]] and [[Sweep (martial arts)|sweeps]] are also allowed. Free sparring is performed in a marked or closed area. The bout runs for a fixed time (2 to 3 minutes.) The time can run continuously (Iri Kume) or be stopped for referee judgment. Points are awarded based on the criteria: good form, sporting attitude, vigorous application, awareness/[[zanshin]], good timing and correct distance.<ref>[http://www.karateworld.org/images/stories/Downloads/wkf_competition_rules_english_version__5._5.pdf World Karate Federation Competition Rules]</ref> ===Dojo Kun === {{main|Dojo kun}} In the [[bushidō]] tradition ''dojo kun'' is a set of guidelines for kareteka to follow. These guidelines apply both in the [[dojo]] (training hall) and in everyday life. === Conditioning === Okinawan karate uses supplementary training known as ''[[hojo undo]]''. This utilizes simple equipment made of wood and stone. The ''[[makiwara]]'' is a striking post. The ''[[Hojo undo#Nigiri game|nigiri game]]'' is a large jar used for developing grip strength. These supplementary exercises are designed to increase [[Physical strength|strength]], [[Endurance|stamina]], [[speed]], and [[Motor coordination|muscle coordination]].<ref>{{cite book |last = Higaonna |first = Morio |title = Traditional Karatedo Vol. 1 Fundamental Techniques |date = 1985 |isbn =0-87040-595-0 |pages = 67 }}</ref> Sport Karate emphasises [[aerobic exercise]], [[anaerobic exercise]], [[Power (physics)|power]], [[Sport agility|agility]], [[Flexibility (anatomy)|flexibility]], and [[stress management]].<ref>{{cite book |last = Mitchell |first = David |title = Winning Karate Competition |date = 1991 | |isbn =0-7136-3402-2 pages = 25 }}</ref> All practices vary depending upon the school and the teacher. === Sport === Gichin Funakoshi (船越 義珍) said, "There are no contests in karate."<ref>{{cite book |last = Shigeru |first = Egami |title = The Heart of Karate-Do |date = 1976 |isbn =0-87011-816-1 |pages = 111}}</ref> In pre-World War II Okinawa, kumite was not part of karate training.<ref>{{cite book |last = Higaonna |first = Morio |title = Traditional Karatedo Vol. 4 Applications of the Kata |date = 1990 |isbn =0-87040-848-9 |pages = 136 }}</ref> [[Shigeru Egami]] relates that, in 1940, some karateka were ousted from their dojo because they adopted sparring after having learned it in Tokyo.<ref>{{cite book |last = Shigeru |first = Egami |title = The Heart of Karate-Dō |date = 1976 |isbn =0-87011-816-1 |pages = 113 }}</ref> International competition is well organized. The [[World Karate Federation]] (WKF) is recognized by the [[International Olympic Committee]] (IOC) as being responsible for karate competition in the Olympic games. The WKF has developed common rules governing all styles. The national WKF organisations coordinate with their respective [[National Olympic Committee]]s. Karate does not have 2012 [[Olympic Games|Olympic]] status. In the 117th IOC Session (July 2005), karate received more than half of the votes, but not the two-thirds majority needed to become an official [[Olympic sport]]. WKF karate competition has two disciplines: sparring (''kumite'') and empty-handed forms (''[[Karate kata|kata]]'') Competitors may enter either as individuals or as part of a team. Evaluation for kata and kobudo is performed by a panel of judges, whereas sparring is judged by a head referee, usually with assistant referees at the side of the sparring area. Sparring matches are typically divided by weight, age, gender, and experience. There are other regional, national, and international organizations that hold competitions. The WKF accepts only one organization per country. The World Union of Karate-do Organizations (WUKO)<ref>[http://www.wuko-karate.org/ WUKO - World Union of Karate-Do Organizations<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> offers different styles and federations a world body they may join, without having to compromise their style or size. The WUKO accepts more than one federation or association per country. === Rank === [[Image:Receiving a New Belt in Karate.jpg|thumb|A young student graduates up a rank in belt in front of his [[dojo]].]]In 1924 Gichin Funakoshi founder of [[Shotokan]] Karate adopted the [[Dan rank|Dan]] system from [[judo]] founder [[Jigoro Kano]]<ref>{{cite book |last = Hokama |first = Tetsuhiro |title = 100 Masters of Okinawan Karate |date = 2005 | pages = 20 | publisher=Ozata Print | location=Okinawa }}</ref> using a [[Judo#Rank and grading|rank scheme]] with a limited set of belt colors. Other Okinawan teachers also adopted this practice. In the [[Kyū]]/[[dan rank|Dan]] system the beginner grades start with a higher numbered kyū (''e.g.'', 9th Kyū) and progress toward a lower numbered kyū. The Dan progression continues from 1st Dan (Shodan, or 'beginning dan') to the higher dan grades. Kyū-grade karateka are referred to as "color belt" or mudansha ("ones without dan"). Dan-grade karateka are referred to as ''yudansha'' (holders of dan rank). Yudansha typically wear a [[Black belt (martial arts)|black belt]]. Requirements of rank differ among styles, organizations, and schools. Kyū ranks stress [[Karate stances|stance]], [[Equilibrioception|balance]], and [[coordination]]. [[Speed]] and [[Force|power]] are added at higher grades. Minimum age and time in rank are factors affecting promotion. Testing consists of demonstration of techniques before a panel of examiners. This will vary by school, but testing may include everything learned at that point, or just new information. The demonstration is an application for new rank (shinsa) and may include [[kata]], [[bunkai]], self-defense, routines, [[tameshiwari]] (breaking), and/or [[kumite]] (sparring). Black belt testing may also include a written examination. == Philosophy == Gichin Funakoshi interpreted the "kara" of Karatedo 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. This is done by listening and being receptive to criticism. He considered courtesy of prime importance. He said that "Karate is properly applied only in those rare situations in which one really must either down another or be downed by him." Funakoshi did not consider it unusual for a devotee to use Karate in a real physical confrontation no more than perhaps once in a lifetime. He stated that Karate practitioners must "never be easily drawn into a fight." It is understood that one blow from a real expert could mean death. It is clear that those who misuse what they have learned bring dishonor upon themselves. He promoted the character trait of personal conviction. In "time of grave public crisis, one must have the courage...to face a million and one opponents." He taught that indecisiveness is a weakness.<ref>Funakoshi, Gichin. "Karate-Do Kyohan - The Master Text" Tokyo. Kodansha International; 1973.</ref> == Etymology == Hypothetically, any unarmed combat system could accurately be called "karate" since the Japanese phrase literally means "empty hand." This is not necessarily an acceptable conclusion. To separate fact from fancy requires understanding issues of [[nationalism]], lineage, primacy, and philosophy. === Chinese Hand === ''Karate'' was originally written as ''Chinese hand'' in [[kanji]]. It was later changed to a [[homophone]] meaning ''empty hand''. The word karate was used for some time orally before it was first written.{{Fact|date=August 2007}} The original use of the word karate in print is attributed to [[Anko Itosu]]. He wrote it with the [[kanji]] 唐手:からて (''[[Tang Dynasty]] hand'') rather than the present usage of 空手:からて (''empty hand''). The [[Tang Dynasty]] of China ended in AD 907. The kanji representing it remained in use in Okinawa as a way to refer to China generally.<ref>[http://www.answers.com/topic/names-of-china] Names of China</ref> Thus the word karate was originally a way of expressing "''Chinese hand''," or "''martial art from China''." {{quote|Since there are no written records it is not known definitely whether the ''kara'' in karate was originally written with the character 唐 meaning China or the character 空 meaning empty. During the time when admiration for China and things Chinese was at its height in the Ryukus it was the custom to use the former character when referring to things of fine quality...}} It should be noted that use of the written character is possibly linked to the origins of karate from china. === Empty Hand === The original use of "Chinese hand," "[[Tang Dynasty|Tang]] hand," “Chinese fist,” or "Chinese techniques" (depending on interpretation of 唐手) reflects the documented [[Chinese martial arts|Chinese influence]] on karate. The first documented use of a [[homophone]] of the [[logogram]] pronounced ''kara'' by replacing the [[Chinese character|character]] meaning [[Tang Dynasty]] (唐 から) with the character meaning empty (空 から) took place in in ''Karate Kumite''. This is a book by [[Hanashiro Chomo]] (1869–1945) which was published in August 1905. In the early 20th century Japan did not have good relations with China. In 1932 Japan attacked China and occupied its northern territory. At that time referring to Chinese origins of karate was considered politically incorrect. <ref>http://www.newpaltzkarate.com/article/Article1SA.html, Levitz, Maurey (1998) ''What's In A Name? How the meaning of the term karate has changed'', New Paltz Karate Academy, Inc. </ref> <!-- This followed the so-called Meeting of the Masters in October of 1936, which included Hanashiro, [[Chōjun Miyagi]] (宮城 長順 ''Miyagi Chōjun'', 1888–1953), Yabu Kentsu (1866&ndash;1936), Chotoku Kyan (''Kyan Chotoku'', 1870–1945), Genwa Nakasone (''Nakasone Genwa'', 1895–1978), Chosin Chibana (''Chibana Chosin'', 1885–1969), Choryo Maeshiro, and Shinpan Gusukuma (''Gusukuma Shinpan'', 1890–1954).{{Fact|date=February 2007}} Since this 1933–1936 period, the word pronounced "karate" has almost universally referred to the written ''kanji'' meaning "empty hand" (空手) rather than "Chinese hand" (唐手). --> <!-- This is a quote from a book. Unless you are Higaonna Morio<g>, please leave it alone. --> {{quote|In 1933, the Okinawan art of karate was recognized as a Japanese martial art by the Japanese Martial Arts Committee known as the "Butoku Kai". Until 1935, "karate" was written as "唐手" (Chinese hand). But in 1935, the masters of the various styles of Okinawan karate conferred to decide a new name for their art. They decided to call their art "karate" written in Japanese characters as "空手" (empty hand).|<ref>{{cite book |last = Higaonna |first = Morio |title = Traditional Karatedo Vol. 1 Fundamental Techniques |date = 1985 |isbn =0-87040-595-0 |pages = 19 }}</ref>}} === Nomenclature === Another nominal development is the addition of ''[[dō]]'' (道:どう) to the end of the word karate. ''Dō'' is a suffix having numerous meanings including road, path, route, and way. It is used in many martial arts that survived Japan's transition from feudal culture to modern times. It implies that these arts are not just fighting systems but contain spiritual elements when promoted as disciplines. In this context ''dō'' is usually translated as "the way of." Examples are [[aikido]] (合気道:あいきどう), judo (柔道:じゅうどう), and [[kendo]] (剣道:けんどう). Thus karatedō is more than just empty hand techniques. It is The Way Of The Empty Hand. == History == ===Okinawa=== {{see also|Okinawan martial arts}} Karate began as a fighting system known as "''[[Okinawan martial arts|ti]]''" (or "''te''") among the [[pechin]] class of the [[Ryukyuans]]. During the [[Genpei War|Taira-Minamoto war]], some [[samurai]] from the [[Minamoto clan]] arrived in [[Okinawa Island|Okinawa]] from [[Japan]] and became allies with the Ryukyuan nobles. The samurai may have taught their new allies the martial art of [[Daito-ryu aiki-jujutsu]] which the pechin could have combined with their own fighting system.<ref>{{Jp icon}} [http://rca.open.ed.jp/history/story/epoch2/toitu_5.html Old Ryukyu: Establishment of a unified dynasty] at Ryukyu Cultural Archives</ref><ref>[http://www.practical-martial-arts.co.uk/practical_karate/iain_abernethy/ia_brief_history_kata.html A Brief History of Kata] at Practical Martial Arts</ref> After trade relationships were established with the Ming dinasty China by Chuzan King Satto in 1372, many forms of [[Chinese martial arts]] were introduced to [[Ryukyu Islands]] by the visitors from China, mainly [[Fujian]] Province. A group of 36 Chinese families moved to Okinawa around 1392 for the purpose of cultural exchange. The political centralization of Okinawa by King Shohashi in 1429 and the 'Policy of Banning Weapons,' enforced in Okinawa after the invasion of the [[Shimazu clan]] in 1609, are also factors that furthered the development of Okinawan unarmed combat techniques.<ref name="okinawa history"/> There were few formal styles of ti, but rather many practitioners with their own methods. One surviving example is the [[Motobu-ryu]] school passed down from the Motobu family by Seikichi Uehara.<ref>{{cite book |last = Bishop |first = Mark |title = Okinawan Karate |date = 1989 | |isbn =0-7136-5666-2 |pages = 154 }} Motobu-ryu & Seikichi Uehara</ref> Early styles of karate are often generalized as [[Shuri-te]], [[Naha-te]], and [[Tomari-te]], named after the three cities from which they emerged.<ref>{{cite book |last = Higaonna |first = Morio |title = Traditional Karatedo Vol. 1 Fundamental Techniques |date = 1985 |isbn =0-87040-595-0 |pages = 19 }}</ref> Each area and its teachers had particular kata, techniques, and principles that distinguished their local version of ti from the others. Members of the Okinawan upper classes were sent to China regularly to study various political and practical disciplines. The incorporation of empty-handed [[Chinese martial arts|Chinese]] [[wu shu]] into Okinawan martial arts occurred partly because of these exchanges. Many karate kata bear a strong resemblance to Fujian martial arts such as [[Fujian White Crane]], [[Five Ancestors]], and Gangrou-quan ([[Hard and soft (martial arts)|Hard Soft]] Fist; pronounced "Gōjūken" in Japanese).<ref>{{cite book |last = Bishop |first = Mark |title = Okinawan Karate |date = 1989 | |isbn =0-7136-5666-2 |pages = 28 }} For example Chojun Miyagi adapted Rokkishu of White Crane into Tensho</ref> Further influence came from [[Southeast Asia]]— particularly [[Sumatra]], [[Java]], and [[Melaka]]. The similarities between karate and [[silat]] may be found in the unarmed forms and in the weapon forms. Many Okinawan weapons such as the [[sai (weapon)|sai]], [[tonfa]], and [[nunchaku]] originated in and around [[Southeast Asia]]. [[Kanga Sakukawa|Sakukawa Kanga]] (1782–1838) had studied [[pugilism]] and [[Gun (staff)|staff]] (''bo'') fighting in China (according to one legend, under the guidance of Kosokun, originator of [[Kūsankū (kata)|''kusanku kata'']]). In 1806 he started teaching a fighting art in the city of [[Shuri]] that he called "Tudi Sakukawa," which meant "Sakukawa of China Hand." This was the first known recorded reference to the art of "Tudi," written as 唐手. Around the 1820s Sakukawa's most significant student [[Sokon Matsumura|Matsumura Sokon]] (1809–1899) taught a synthesis of ''te'' (Shuri-te and Tomari-te) and [[Shaolin kung fu|Shaolin]] (Chinese 少林) styles. Matsumura's style would later become the [[Shorin-ryū]] style. [[Image:Itosu Anko.jpg|right|thumb|'''Ankō Itosu''' <br>Grandfather of Modern Karate]] Matsumura taught his art to [[Ankō Itosu|Itosu Ankō]] (1831–1915) among others. Itosu adapted two forms he had learned from Matsumara. These are ''kusanku'' and ''chiang nan''. He created the ''ping'an'' forms ("''heian''" or "''pinan''" in Japanese) which are simplified kata for beginning students. In 1901 Itosu helped to get karate introduced into Okinawa's public schools. These forms were taught to children at the elementary school level. Itosu's influence in karate is broad. The forms he created are common across nearly all styles of karate. His students became some of the most well known karate masters, including [[Gichin Funakoshi]], [[Kenwa Mabuni]], and [[Motobu Choki|Choki Motobu]]. Itosu is sometimes referred to as "the Grandfather of Modern Karate."<ref>[http://www.koryu-uchinadi.com/thinking_outside_the_box.htm Patrick McCarthy, footnote #4</ref> In 1881 [[Higaonna Kanryo]] returned from China after years of instruction with Ryu Ryu Ko and founded what would become [[Naha-te]]. One of his students was the founder of [[Goju-ryu]], [[Chojun Miyagi]]. Chojun Miyagi taught such well-known karateka as [[Seko Higa]] (who also trained with Higaonna), [[Meitoku Yagi]], [[Miyazato Ei'ichi]], and [[Seikichi Toguchi]]. In addition to the three early ti styles of karate a fourth Okinawan influence is that of [[Kanbun Uechi]] (1877–1948). At the age of 20 he went to [[Fuzhou]] in Fujian Province, China, to escape Japanese military conscription. While there he studied under Shushiwa. He was a leading figure of [[Nam Pai Chuan|Chinese Nanpa Shorin-ken]] at that time.<ref>[http://www.wonder-okinawa.jp/023/eng/009/001/index.html Kanbun Uechi history]</ref> He later developed his own style of [[Uechi-ryu]] karate based on the Sanchin, Seisan, and Sanseiryu kata that he had studied in China.<ref>{{cite book |last = Hokama |first = Tetsuhiro |title = 100 Masters of Okinawan Karate |date = 2005 | pages = 28 | publisher=Ozata Print | location=Okinawa }}</ref> === Japan === {{Refimprove|section|date=August 2007}} {{see also|Japanese martial arts}} [[Image:Masters of Karate.jpg|340px|thumb|'''Masters of karate in Tokyo''' (c. 1930s) <br>Kanken Toyama, Hironori Ohtsuka, Takeshi Shimoda, Gichin Funakoshi, Choki Motobu, Kenwa Mabuni, Genwa Nakasone, and Shinken Taira (from left to right)]] Gichin Funakoshi, founder of Shotokan karate, is generally credited with having introduced and popularized karate on the main islands of Japan. Actually many Okinawans were actively teaching, and are thus equally responsible for the development of karate. Funakoshi was a student of both [[Ankō Asato|Asato Ankō]] and [[Ankō Itosu|Itosu Ankō]] (who had worked to introduce karate to the Okinawa Prefectural School System in 1902). During this time period, prominent teachers who also influenced the spread of karate in Japan included [[Kenwa Mabuni]], [[Chojun Miyagi]], [[Choki Motobu]], [[Kanken Tōyama]], and Kanbun Uechi. This was a turbulent period in history in the region. It includes Japan's annexation of the Okinawan island group in 1874, the [[First Sino-Japanese War]] (1894–1895), the [[Russo-Japanese War]] (1904–1905), the annexation of Korea, and the rise of [[Japanese expansionism]] (1905–1945). Japan was [[Second Sino-Japanese War#Invasion of China|invading China]] at the time, and Funakoshi knew that the art of [[Tang Dynasty|Tang]]/China hand would not be accepted; thus the change of the art's name to "way of the empty hand." The ''dō'' suffix implies that ''karatedō'' is a path to self knowledge, not just a study of the technical aspects of fighting. Like most martial arts practiced in Japan, karate made its transition from -''jutsu'' to -''dō'' around the beginning of the 20th century. The "''dō''" in "karate-dō" sets it apart from karate "''jutsu''", as aikido is distinguished from ''[[aikijutsu]]'', judo from [[jujutsu]], [[iaido]] from [[iaijutsu]] and [[Taido]] from [[Taijutsu]]. [[Image:Funakoshi Gichin.jpg|thumb|'''Gichin Funakoshi''' <br>Founder of Shotokan Karate]] Funakoshi changed the names of many kata and the name of the art itself (at least on mainland Japan), doing so to get karate accepted by the Japanese [[budo]] organization [[Dai Nippon Butoku Kai]]. Funakoshi also gave Japanese names to many of the kata. The five ''pinan'' forms became known as ''heian'', the three ''naihanchi'' forms became known as ''tekki'', ''seisan'' as ''hangetsu'', ''chinto'' as ''gankaku'', ''wanshu'' as ''empi'', and so on. These were mostly political changes, rather than changes to the content of the forms, although Funakoshi did introduce some such changes. Funakoshi had trained in two of the popular branches of Okinawan karate of the time, Shorin-ryū and Shorei-ryū. In Japan he was influenced by kendo, incorporating some ideas about distancing and timing into his style. He always referred to what he taught as simply karate, but in 1936 he built the Shotokan dojo in Tokyo and the style he left behind is usually called Shotokan. The modernization and systemization of karate in Japan also included the adoption of the white uniform that consisted of the [[kimono]] and the ''[[dogi]]'' or ''[[keikogi]]''—mostly called just [[karategi]]—and colored belt ranks. Both of these innovations were originated and popularized by Jigoro Kano, the founder of judo and one of the men Funakoshi consulted in his efforts to modernize karate. In 1922, Hironori Ohtsuka attended the Tokyo Sports Festival, where he saw Funakoshi's karate. Ohtsuka was so impressed with this that he visited Funakoshi many times during his stay. Funakoshi was, in turn, impressed by Ohtsuka's enthusiasm and determination to understand karate, and agreed to teach him. In the following years, Ohtsuka set up a medical practice dealing with martial arts injuries. His prowess in martial arts led him to become the Chief Instructor of [[Shindō Yōshin-ryū]] jujutsu at the age of 30, and an assistant instructor in Funakoshi's dojo. By 1929, Ohtsuka was registered as a member of the Japan Martial Arts Federation. Okinawan karate at this time was only concerned with kata. Ohtsuka thought that the full spirit of [[budō]], which concentrates on defence and attack, was missing, and that kata techniques did not work in realistic fighting situations. He experimented with other, more combative styles such as judo, kendo, and aikido. He blended the practical and useful elements of Okinawan karate with traditional Japanese martial arts techniques from jujitsu and kendo, which led to the birth of [[kumite]], or free fighting, in karate. Ohtsuka thought that there was a need for this more dynamic type of karate to be taught, and he decided to leave Funakoshi to concentrate on developing his own style of karate: Wadō-ryū. In 1934, Wadō-ryū karate was officially recognized as an independent style of karate. This recognition meant a departure for Ohtsuka from his medical practice and the fulfilment of a life's ambition—to become a full-time martial artist. Ohtsuka's personalized style of Karate was officially registered in 1938 after he was awarded the rank of ''Renshi-go''. He presented a demonstration of Wado-ryu karate for the Japan Martial Arts Federation. They were so impressed with his style and commitment that they acknowledged him as a high-ranking instructor. The next year the Japan Martial Arts Federation asked all the different styles to register their names; Ohtsuka registered the name Wado-Ryu. In 1944, Ohtsuka was appointed Japan's Chief Karate Instructor. [[Isshin-ryū]] is a style of Okinawan karate founded by [[Shimabuku Tatsuo]], a student of Motobu Choki, and named by him on [[January 15]], [[1956]]. Isshin-ryū karate is largely a synthesis of Shorin-ryū karate, Gojū-ryū karate, and Kobudo. The name means, literally, "one heart method." The style, while not very popular in Okinawa, spread to the United States via the Marines stationed on the island after they returned home, and has also spread to other countries. After the passing of Shimabuku, many variations of the system formed and exist to this day. A new form of karate called [[Kyokushin]] was developed in 1964 by [[Masutatsu Oyama]] (who was born a Korean, Choi Yeong-Eui). Kyokushin taught a curriculum that emphasized contact, physical toughness, and practical application of karate techniques to self-defense situations. Because of its emphasis on physical, full-force [[sparring]], Kyokushin is now often called "[[full contact karate]]." Many other karate organizations based are descended from the Kyokushin curriculum. The [[Federation of All Japan Karatedo Organization]] recognizes four traditional styles of karate: * Shōtōkan-ryū * Shitō-ryū * Gōjū-ryū * Wadō-ryū Styles that do not belong to one of these schools are not necessarily considered to be 'illegitimate' or 'bad' karate, but simply not one of the traditional schools. For example, the styles listed by the World Union of Karate-do Organizations (WUKO)<ref>[http://www.wuko-karate.org/eng/rules/rules_kata.pdf WUKO World Union of Karate-do Organizations]</ref> are [[Gōjū-ryū]], [[Shitō-ryū]], [[Shōtōkan-ryū]], [[Wadō-ryū]], [[Shōrin-ryū]], [[Uechi-ryū]], [[Kyokushinkai]], and [[Budokan Karate-do|Budōkan]]. Many schools would be affiliated with, or heavily influenced by, one or more of these traditional styles. == Issues == ===Dishonest Practice=== {{For|more information on dishonest practice in the martial arts|McDojo}} Due to the popularity of [[martial arts]], both in mass media and real life, a large number of disreputable, fraudulent, or misguided teachers and schools have arisen over the last 40 years or so. Commonly referred to as a "McDojo" or a "[[Black Belt]] Mill," these schools are frequently headed by martial artists of either dubious skill, dubious business ethics, or both. ===Kata and Kobudo=== Many applications from karate kata seem very mysterious or impractical. Nathan Johnson claims that most antique karate kata were developed for use with weapons rather than as open hand techniques.<ref>{{cite book |last = Johnson |first = Nathan |title = The Great Karate Myth |date = 2006 |isbn =0954960939 |publisher=The Wykeham Press }}</ref> == Karate outside Japan == === Korea === Due to past conflict between Korea and Japan, most notably during the Japanese [[Korea under Japanese rule|occupation]] in the 20th century, the influence of karate on Korean martial arts is a contentious issue. During the occupation, many Koreans went to Japan<ref name="Japan Focus"> {{cite web|url=http://www.japanfocus.org/products/details/2220 |title=Legal Categories, Demographic Change and Japan’s Korean Residents in the Long Twentieth Century |accessdate=2007-02-19 |last=Nozaki |first=Yoshiko |coauthors=Hiromitsu Inokuchi, Tae-young Kim }}</ref> and were exposed to Japanese martial arts. After regaining independence from Japan, many Korean martial arts schools were founded by masters with training in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean martial arts. For example, [[Choi Hong Hi|Hong Hi Choi]], a significant figure in [[taekwondo]] history, studied Shotokan karate in Japan.<ref name="Universal Tae Kwon Do">{{cite web | url = http://utf.whsites.net/history.htm | title = A History Of Taekwon Do | accessdate = 2008-06-30}}</ref> Karate also provided an important comparative model for the early founders of taekwondo in the formalization of their art inheriting some [[Hyung#Unofficial ITF Syllabus|kata]] and the [[Taekwondo#Geup ranks and belt colors|belt rank]] system. It should be noted that contemporary [[taekwondo]] is technically very different from karate (e.g. relies much more on legs than hands, involves high kicks on the heels, more jumps, etc). === Soviet Union === Karate appeared in the [[Soviet Union]] in the mid-1960s, during [[Khruschev]]'s policy of improved international relations, and the first Shotokan clubs were opened in Moscow's universities.{{Fact|date=September 2007}} In 1973, however, the government banned karate—together with all other foreign martial arts—endorsing only the Soviet martial art of [[Sambo (martial art)|sambo]]. Karate schools went underground and lost all international contacts, evolving and mutating wildly.{{Fact|date=September 2007}} Failing to suppress these uncontrolled groups, the USSR's Sport Committee formed the Karate Federation of USSR in December 1978. This was an exclusive, state-controlled organization with rules and methods intentionally incompatible with all foreign karate federations.{{Fact|date=September 2007}} On 17 May 1984, the Soviet Karate Federation was disbanded and all karate became illegal again. In 1988, karate practice became legal again, but under strict government regulations. Only after the [[dissolution of the Soviet Union]] in 1992 did independent karate schools resume functioning, and so federations were formed and national tournaments in authentic styles began.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://karate-shotokan.net/php/his.php|title=History of Shotokan (Russian)|accessdate=2007-05-15}}</ref> === United States === Karate entered the [[United States]] through members of the [[US military]] who had learned it in Okinawa or Japan and opened schools on their return. In 1945 [[Robert Trias]] opened the first martial arts school in the United States in Phoenix, Arizona, a Shuri-ryu karate dojo. This accomplishment earned him the title of “Father of American Karate”. In the 1950s, Edward Kaloudis, William Dometrich (Chito-ryu), Ed Parker (Kenpo), Cecil Paterson (Wado-ryu), Gordon Doversola (Okinawa-te), Louis Kowlowski, Don Nagle (Isshin-ryu), George Mattson (Uechi-ryu), and Peter Urban (Goju-kai) all began instructing in the US. <br> In the 1960s, Jay Trombley (Shoreikan Goju-ryu), Anthony Mirakian (Goju-ryu), Steve Armstrong, Bruce Terrill, Richard Kim (Shorinji-ryu), Teruyuki Okazaki (Shotokan), John Pachivas, Allen Steen, Sea Oh Choi (Hapkido), Gosei Yamaguchi (Goju-ryu), and J Pat Burleson all began teaching martial arts around the country.<ref>[The Original Martial Arts Encyclopedia, John Corcoran and Emil Farkas, pgs. 170-197</ref> In 1961 [[Hidetaka Nishiyama]], a co-founder of the [[JKA]] and student of Gichin Funakoshi began teaching in the [[United States]].<ref>[http://www.shotokanway.net/pages/nishiyama.html nishiyama]</ref> As a trial case in spreading the art of karate, [[Masatoshi Nakayama]] arrange to send [[Teruyuki Okazaki]] to the United States in 1961 where he started a karate dojo in [[Philadelphia]].{{fact|date=February 2008}} [[Takayuki Mikami]] were sent by the JKA in 1963.<ref>[http://www.allsouthkarate.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3&Itemid=2 All South Karate]</ref> === United Kingdom === In the 1950s and 1960s, several Japanese karate masters began to teach the art in the [[United Kingdom]]. In 1965, Tatsuo Suzuki began teaching Wadō-ryū in London. In 1966, members of the former British Karate Federation established the [[Karate Union of Great Britain]] (KUGB) under [[Hirokazu Kanazawa]] as chief instructor<ref>[http://www.karate-iask.com/page_08.htm International Association of Shotokan Karate (IASK)<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> and affiliated to [[JKA]]. [[Keinosuke Enoeda]] came to England at the same time as Kanazawa, teaching at a dojo in Liverpool. Kanazawa left the UK after 3 years and Enoeda took over. After Enoeda’s death in 2003, the KUGB elected Andy Sherry as Chief Instructor. Shortly after this, a new association split off from KUGB, [[JKA England]]. == Film and popular culture == Karate spread rapidly in the West through popular culture. In 1950s popular fiction, karate was at times described to readers in near-mythical terms, and it was credible to show Western experts of unarmed combat as unaware of Eastern [[martial arts]] of this kind.<ref>For example, [[Ian Fleming]]'s book ''[[Goldfinger (novel)|Goldfinger]]'' (1959, p.91-95) describes the protagonist [[James Bond]], an expert in unarmed combat, as utterly ignorant of Karate and its demonstrations, and describes the [[Korea]]n '[[Oddjob]]' in these terms: ''Goldfinger said, "Have you ever heard of Karate? No? Well that man is one of the three in the world who have achieved the [[Black belt (martial arts)|Black Belt]] in Karate. Karate is a branch of judo, but it is to judo what a [[spandau]] is to a [[catapult]]...".'' Such a description in a popular novel assumed and relied upon Karate being almost unknown in the West.</ref> By the 1970s, [[martial arts film]]s had formed a mainstream genre that propelled karate and other Asian martial arts into mass popularity. [[The Karate Kid]] (1984) is a film relating the fictional story of an American adolescent's introduction into karate. {| class="wikitable" |+Stars and their Styles !Practitioner !Martial Art |- |[[Sonny Chiba]] |Kyokushin |- |[[Sean Connery]] |Kyokushin |- |[[Fumio Demura]] |Shito ryu |- |[[Dolph Lundgren]] |Kyokushin |- |[[Jean-Claude Van Damme]] |Shotokan |- |[[Michael Jai White]] |Kyokushin / Shotokan / Goju ryu |} == See also == *[[Comparison of karate styles]] *[[Japanese martial arts]] *[[Karate stances]] *[[Karate kata]] *[[Okinawan martial arts]] *[[List of martial arts]] == References == {{reflist|2}} == External links == *[http://kata-reference.com Karate, Okinawan Kobudo and Kendo Kata videos]. *[http://www.karaterec.com/en/ Karate Records - WKF results and charts] *[http://www.wonder-okinawa.jp/023/eng/index.html# Okinawan karate] *[http://www.judoinfo.com/karateranks.htm History of Ranking in Karate] *[http://www.mastersoftherisingsun.org/ Hokubei Shihankai - Japanese Karate Masters Association of North America] {{Karate schools}} {{Martial arts}} {{manav by country}} [[Category:Sport in Japan]] [[Category:Combat sports]] [[Category:Karate|*]] [[Category:Dō]] [[Category:Gendai budo]] [[Category:Martial arts]] [[Category:Japanese martial arts]] [[Category:Okinawan martial arts]] {{Link FA|de}} <!-- interwiki --> [[als:Karate]] [[ar:كاراتيه]] [[ast:Kárate]] [[az:Karate]] [[bs:Karate]] [[bg:Карате]] [[ca:Karate]] [[cs:Karate]] [[da:Karate]] [[de:Karate]] [[et:Karate]] [[el:Καράτε]] [[es:Karate]] [[eo:Karateo]] [[fa:کاراته]] [[fr:Karaté]] [[fur:Karate]] [[gl:Karate]] [[ko:공수도]] [[hr:Karate]] [[id:Karate]] [[ia:Karate]] [[xh:I-Karate]] [[is:Karate]] [[it:Karate]] [[he:קראטה]] [[ht:Karate]] [[la:Carate]] [[lt:Karatė]] [[mk:Карате]] [[ml:കരാട്ടെ]] [[ms:Karate]] [[nl:Karate]] [[ja:空手道]] [[no:Karate]] [[nn:Karate]] [[oc:Karate]] [[uz:Karate]] [[pl:Karate]] [[pt:Caratê]] [[ro:Karate-dō]] [[rm:Karate]] [[ru:Карате]] [[scn:Karate]] [[simple:Karate]] [[sk:Karate]] [[sl:Karate]] [[sr:Карате]] [[fi:Karate]] [[sv:Karate]] [[th:คาราเต้]] [[vi:Karate]] [[tr:Karate]] [[uk:Карате]] [[vec:Karate]] [[yi:קאראטע]] [[zh:空手道]]