The Traditions of Karate

Karate is an unarmed Martial Art.  The word “karate” means “empty (kara) hand (te).” Or hands without a weapon.  In reality the hands, elbows, knees, feet, and other parts of the human anatomy are the Karate student’s weapons.  Karate specializes in striking blows such as kicking, punching, chopping, and stabbing techniques, along with a few blocking and throwing techniques which are used in special instances where it is more practical to throw or black than to deliver a strike or blow.  

There are many traditions associated with the practice of karate.  Many of these are very old.  They are designed to remind the karate student of karate’s heritage, of character building, and discipline.  Following the traditions shows respect for the original roots of karate.  It is also a way of ensuring that students learn in a responsible manner.

The Bow:  It is the traditional way of expressing respect and courtesy to others.  Classes always begin and end with a bow, showing respect to the dojo (training hall), the karate style, the instructor, and to each other.  The bow can be made from either a standing or a sitting position.

Kiai:  The Kiai is a shout, made by exhaling forcefully as you make a particular sound or word.  The Kiai tightens the stomach and core muscles and gives more power to the technique.

The Uniform:  The karate uniform is called a Gi.  The Gi is made up of fairly strong material.  It is designed in such a way that it will not rip when you stretch, jump, kick, punch, or are grabbed or thrown.  The traditional color of the Gi is white.

Meditation:  During the makuso (meditation) at the beginning and end of each class, the student sits quietly, clearing the mind, and preparing for or reflecting on what the student will or has learned.  Meditation also teaches patience and self-control, along with how to relax.  The karate student should put aside other thoughts and prepare to learn karate.  Karate training requires concentration and attention.

Classroom Rules:

• Wear athletic clothing to train before you receive a uniform

• Bring your own water to class

• Please arrive five minutes early

• Students should use the bathroom BEFORE class, never during class

• Patches for your Uniform may be purchased and then sewn on before your first test.

Karate Terminology

Karate: Empty Hand

Sensei: Instructor

Sempai: Senior

Kohai: Junior

Dojo: Training Hall/Place

Gi: Uniform

Hai: Yes

Onegashimasu: Please Teach Me

Rei: Bow

Mokuso: Meditate

Shomen: Front of the Dojo

Kihon: Basics (basic techniques)

Kata: Series of block and attack techniques in a set sequence  

Bunkai: Application of kata techniques (what they mean)

Kumite: Sparring

Kiotsuke: Stand at attention

Yoi: Ready

Hajime: Start

Yame: Stop and return to attention

Kime: Focus

Kiai: Shout uttered when striking, kicking, or blocking

Dachi: Stance

Uke: Block

Zuki: Punch

Geri: Kick

Numbers: Ichi (one), Ni (two), San (three), Shi (four), Go (five),

Roku (six), Shichi (seven), Hachi (eight), Ku (nine), Ju (ten)

Shomen-ni, Rei: Bow towards the front of the Dojo

Sensei-ni, Rei: Bow to Sensei

Otagai-ni, Rei: Bow to each other

Arigato Gozaimasu: Thank you for what we have done