The Way of Karate

“There is no first attack in karate.” This phrase embodies the essential spirit of Okinawan karate. Although karate is a martial art, it must be a defensive art from beginning to end. The essence of karate-do (the way of karate), lies in the defensive function of karate. Students of any martial arts, including karate-do must not forget the cultivation of mind as well as body. In karate-do one's individual goal might be improvement of his health or training of his body to function efficiently. He might wish to develop a strength of his arms or legs or body, or to attain poise and fortitude. Some might wish to learn karate to cultivate humility. All such goals have to do with self-development.

The dreadful offensive and defensive power of karate is well known. Karate is an art, with which one can defeat opponents with a single fist attack, or kick, without weapons. The value of the art depends on one, applying it. If its application is for good purpose, the art is of great value. But if it is misused, there is no more evil or harmful art than karate. The unarmed combat, improperly used, is certainly dangerous and vicious. But, if properly applied, it can produce results of great value.. The correct understanding of karate and its proper use is “karate-do”.

On the contrary, if one misuses the techniques of karate, he nullifies its benefits and merits. Such misuse, arising from superficial understanding, is in fact self-defeating.

Those who follow the way of karate must consider courtesy of prime importance. Without courtesy, the essence of karate-do is lost. No one is qualified to be a karateman without courtesy, even if he excels others in his technique. This is the very reason why karate practice begins and ends with a bow. The bow represents one's recognition of the meaning of courtesy. Courtesy must be practiced, not only during training periods but in all times of one's daily life.