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By Jocelyn Davidson


Karate is a form of martial art that has its origin in the islands of Japan called Ryukyu. At the time of its development, the developers combined different combat methods to come up with a specific system of fighting that was later called karate. Other versions of the art were also developed in China, UK, US, and other states around the same time. That is the origin of classification of styles in this art as either western or eastern.

This martial art is currently trained in many schools around the world due to its fast adoption in different states. For elegant classes in karate Portland Oregon is among the best places one should visit. In Portland, coaches teach karate as a striking art. They teach techniques like elbow strikes, punching, knee strikes, kicking, and open hand styles. Other versions teach restraints, vital point strikes, locks, grappling, and throws. The term karateka is used to refer to participants.

Currently, there are many different reasons for which people engage in martial arts. The reasons vary from gaining important self defense skills to maintenance of proper emotional, mental, and physical health . Stress can be highly reduced by taking classes in this martial art hence, assisting in achieving healthy lifestyles. Stress gained during the day is normally relieved by taking evening classes. This prepares participants for a new day while relaxing and strengthening their bodies and minds.

In terms of self defense, karatekas are taught basic skills of defending oneself against attackers. The skills range from attacking, defending, and fleeing. A simple strike can give one enough time to flee away from an attacker or to seek for help from the police or other members of the public. The US military is currently training its soldiers in martial arts to allow them to defend themselves against unarmed but hostile members of public during riots.

Some people spend free time on classes as a hobby. Hobbyists normally do not focus on achieving ranks or acquiring advanced skills but rather as a way of passing free time. The nature of exercises in this discipline make it suitable for losing excess weight in people with problems with their weight. The exercises help in gaining proper body shape, endurance, and flexibility while shedding off extra calories.

This art is also a competitive sport in which participants can go as far as participating in Olympic games. As a sport, participants learn skills in the use of weapons made of metal, wood, and stone. The competitive sport emphasizes flexibility, power, anaerobic and aerobic exercises, and agility. Exercises participated in improve muscle coordination, strength, speed, and stamina. During participation in the sport, karatekas may be allowed to make partial or no contact or to make full contact.

Kata is a competitive sport under this martial art which is meant to show mastery of skills. Participants display their skills singly or in groups to viewers. Marks are scored basing on the level of perfection of a participant.

Ranks in this sport are marked by belts. The rank of karateka is shown by the color of the belt they hold. A black belt is held by the highest ranking karatekas. Black belters have advanced training and mastery of skills in the game.




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