Introduction to Shotokan Karate
Karate is a traditional modern art that has its origins from the Ryukyu Islands. Shotokan was developed in Japan and it is one of the most popular forms practiced today. An individual can practice karate for the purpose of sport, combat arts, self-defence or for development of oneself (budo). Kihon (fundamental points), Kata (or forms) and kumite (sparring) are key elements of this art.
The development of the correct attitude to training, exercise and competition are strongly encouraged. The training involved in Shotokan Karate is a mixture of aerobic or cardiovascular and anaerobic i.e. leading to development of stronger individual muscle groups. Flexibility depends upon the individual’s persistence with dynamic and static stretching exercises as well as underlying genetics. Shotokan Karate is one out of the four main schools of Karate in Japan.
This style uses long wide stances and has linear movements. It does not have circular movements, unlike most Okinawan Karate Styles. Sparring and scoring points in tournaments are popular in Shotokan, gradually moving away from the traditional theories set out by Gichin Funakoshi.
