Shotokan, Okinawan, and Aikido Karate

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Shotokan is a style of karate, developed from various martial arts. Shotokan got its name from its original dojo facility that was built by Gichin Funakoshi.
Shoto, which means "pine-waves” is the movement of pine needles when the wind blows through them, was Funakoshi's pen-name, which he used in his poetic and philosophical writings and messages to his students.

The Japanese word Kan means house or hall. In honor of their sensei, Funakoshi's students created a sign reading shoto-kan which was placed above the entrance of the hall where Funakoshi taught. Thus the phrase Shotokan is created.

Shotokan is broken into three parts, kihon which is the basics, kata which is forms or patterns of moves, and kumite which is sparring. Techniques in kihon and kata are characterized by deep, long stances that provide stability, enable powerful movements, and strengthen the legs.

Shotokan is often regarded as a hard and external martial art because it is taught that way to beginners/the colored belts to develop strong basic techniques and stances. Initially strength and power are demonstrated instead of slower, more flowing motions.

Those who progress to brown and black belt level develop a much more fluid style which incorporates grappling and some aikido-like techniques, which can be found in the black belt katas. Kumite techniques mirror these stances and movements at a basic level, but progress to being more flexible with greater experience.

Okinawan martial arts are defined as the martial arts which originated among the indigenous people of Okinawa Island, most notably karate, tegumi, and Okinawan kobudo.

The precursor of present-day Okinawan martial arts is believed to have come by way of visitors from China. In the 7th century, Chinese martial arts were introduced to Okinawa through Taoist and Buddhist monks. These styles were practiced in Okinawa and developed over several centuries.

Aikido is a Japanese martial art that combines martial studies, philosophy, and religious beliefs. Aikido is often translated as the way of unifying with life energy or as the way of harmonious spirit. Aikido’s goal is to create an art that practitioners could use to defend themselves while also protecting their attacker from injury.

Aikido is performed by blending with the motion of the attacker and redirecting the force of the attack rather than opposing it head-on. This requires very little physical energy, as the aikido practitioner leads the attacker's momentum using entering and turning movements. The techniques are completed with various throws or joint locks. Aikido can be categorized under the general umbrella of grappling arts.

Today Aikido is found all over the world in a number of styles, with broad ranges of interpretation and emphasis. However, they all share techniques learned and most have concern for the well-being of the attacker. This attitude has been at the core of criticisms of aikido and related arts.

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