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Shotokan Karate

Shotokan Karate 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.

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. 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.

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. Kumite techniques mirror these stances and movements at a basic level, but progress to being more flexible with greater experience.

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