Friday, 18 July 2014

Legends Of Karate

By Leigh Metopher


Karate is one of the world's most famous martial arts. Developed hundreds of years ago in Okinawa, Japan, karate is considered a striking art where much emphasis is placed on punching and striking, although some variations of karate also focus on grappling, joint locks and other martial arts techniques.

It might surprise one to note that karate has only been practiced in mainland Japan since the early 20th century, although in Okinawa it has been continuously developed over about 400 years. Gichin Funakoshi is largely credited with introducing karate to the rest of Japan, and he opened the first dojo, or school for karate, in 1939. He also is the father of one of the most prominent forms of karate - Shotokan karate.

Another father of karate would have to be Anko Itosu. He trained many prominent practitioners of karate such as the aforementioned Gichin Funakoshi. He also wrote the Tode Jukun or the Ten Precepts of Karate. This document highlighted the many benefits of teaching karate as well as establishing some important guidelines for training. Written in 1908, this document was read by officials at both the Japanese Ministry of War as well as the Ministry of Education and helped spark great interest in karate throughout the country.

Americans serving in Asia during World War II, particularly in Okinawa and the Solomon Islands, quickly embraced the art of karate. Robert Trias learned his karate skills while serving in the Solomon Islands. He became learned enough that once he got back home to Arizona, he started teaching karate to others in his backyard. Trias opened the U.S.'s first dojo in 1946. In 1948, he started the United States Karate Association.

Throughout the centuries, there have been many key figures in the development and spread of karate. Today, this martial art is just one of the components that might appear in the arsenal of a mixed martial arts fighter, such as famed UFC champ Lyoto Machida. Machida's father was the head of the Brazilian branch of the Japan Karate Association, so it's not surprising that Lyoto Machida is quite skilled in the ways of karate.

If you are looking for karate classes in Encinitas, karate classes in San Marcos or karate classes in Carlsbad, consider contacting Team Mai. They offer classes for children and teens, and focus not only on teaching the skills of karate but instilling a sense of self-confidence in each student, as well as teaching discipline and respect in a fun and exciting environment.




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