Karate Beginner

As with any new endeavor, Karate-do for the beginner may seem very daunting. This handbook for beginners contains a basic introduction to Karate-do, proper etiquette, practice, philosophy and terminology. The purpose of studying Karate-do is not merely victory or defeat of an opponent in combat, but the practical application of what you have learned to everyday life. Through the practice of karate-do, you should come in contact with the “spirit” of the martial arts and be a critical judge of yourself. Practice Karate-do diligently and with all seriousness, and you’ll acquire the physical, mental and spiritual fortitude to overcome many challenges in life. Karate-do, which literally means “empty hand way” is a system of self defense which has ancient roots in many Asian countries. Over the years, Karate-do has been developed and refined into several styles; Shotokan karate developed by Gichin Funakoshi is perhaps the most popular of the Okinawan karate styles. Today, over ten million people around the world practice this style.