Karate (open hand)

Karate, which means ’empty hand’ in Japanese, is a system of self-defense that originated in China, evolved in Okinawa in the 17th century, and was popularized in the rest of Japan during the 1920’s. The practice of karate involves blocks and strikes that are practiced in three ways. Kata are a series of techniques that are strung together in a specific order, intended to mimic an encounter with multiple opponents. Kata are practiced solo and help develop precision and fluidity. Combinations are shorter series of techniques intended to defend against specific attacks. Combinations are often practiced with a cooperative partner to allow the karateka (karate practitioner) to develop a sense for how the techniques work on a real human. Lastly, sparring (kumite) is a controlled encounter with pads and rules that allows the practitioner to develop their reactions and timing. We practice touch sparring, where the goal is to lightly connect with a technique to demonstrate that one could have hit their opponent, while keeping the experience as safe as possible. Sparring is not required and students may opt out.