The connotation Karate indicates a technique that permits defending oneself with the bare hands and fists, without weapons.
Karate can be described as a martial art, or fighting method, which involves a variety of techniques, including blocks, kicks, punches, strikes, evasions, take-downs, throws and joint manipulations.
Do is described as the way, path or approach which is used to reach the perfection of the human character. One who studies Karate must rid himself of evil or selfish thoughts, for only with a clear mind one can understand what is received. Karate-Do must strive to be internally humble and externally gentle.
Karate-Do is implied as a total way of life that goes well beyond self-defense applications. The true opponent in Karate-Do is recognized as oneself.
In true Karate, the mind, spirit, and body become one (budo). Our physical techniques are pure expressions of our mind’s intentions, and the polishing of our spirit. If its application is for a good purpose, then the art is of great value, but if it is misused, then there’s no more evil or harmful art than Karate.
Karate practice is divided into three main categories: Kihon (Basics), Kata (Forms), and Kumite (Sparring).
