Karate is a martial art that is most often related to self-defense. It means "empty-hand", generally meaning, "without a weapon".
Karate is really a way of personally developing character for the student, learning to push beyond their own limitations and to discover what they can truly do, thus developing their confidence. As well, it is great for physical fitness.
Basic techniques are taught the students, such as stances, blocking, striking, and kicking. This provides them with the tools needed for self-defense.
Techniques are the foundations of our karate, and the refining and perfecting of their forms mirrors our wanting to refine and perfect ourselves and our character.
As we become capable of doing more and more in karate, we find this also applies to our personal self.
Kata are sets of moves against imaginary opponents, helping the student to improve their technique and form. By understanding moves and interpretations for the attacks, this helps the student to apply lessons learned to other parts of their karate. If good form is attained in kata, then good form will be maintained in other aspects of karate.
Self-Defense is using the techniques we've learned against partners in controlled practice, repeating the technique over and over again so that the body can learn and remember
how to use these techniques against an assailant.
Sparring teaches the students control, as well as the real interaction needed to anticipate a confrontation. Sparring pads are mandatory.
Karatekas ( "karate students" ) are taught to control their techniques, and to respect their fellow students, in the practice of training in karate.
Control is part of their focus, needed for placing techniques at the right place at the right time.
