Karate Martial Arts Supplies
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What is Karate?
Karate: "Way of the empty hand." This type of martial art is based on unarmed self-defense involving linear punching and kicking techniques executed from a stable, fixed stance. Strength and speed are required traits to be proficient in karate. Students cultivate an acute sense of timing along with surprise, and constant alertness.
Karate originated in Okinawa, Japan. Karate is a combination of pre-existing Okinawan martial arts, called "te", and Chinese martial arts.
Karate uses forms (Kata) to practice movements and patterns of simulated combat sequences. Katas can be performed solo or with a partner. Karate weapons were originally just tools used by farmers. " There is a long history behind Karate that is worth checking out! "
Karate uses the Sai, Kama, Tonfa, Nunchaku and Bo as its traditional weapons. Karate students engage in full, light, and no-contact sparring competitions.
Karate originated in Okinawa, Japan. Karate is a combination of pre-existing Okinawan martial arts, called "te", and Chinese martial arts.
Karate uses forms (Kata) to practice movements and patterns of simulated combat sequences. Katas can be performed solo or with a partner. Karate weapons were originally just tools used by farmers. " There is a long history behind Karate that is worth checking out! "
Karate uses the Sai, Kama, Tonfa, Nunchaku and Bo as its traditional weapons. Karate students engage in full, light, and no-contact sparring competitions.
Contents at a Glance
Karate GI origins
Keikogi is a uniform used in martial arts derived from Japan that means "Practice Clothes." (keiko means practice, gi means dress or clothes). Kano Jigoro (the originator of Judo) designed the uniforms from Japanese firefighter's heavy hemp jackets called "hanten." The keikogi today worn by Kano's students for judo practice still exists today unchanged except for a few variations.The main modification was the addition of strings adding to the inside of the jacket and tied to keep the jacket closed. The jacket is also held closed by the belt. This last modification was added by the founder of Shotokan karate; Gichin Funakoshi to help market karate to the Japanese. Karate was seen as brutish and practitioners wore just their street clothes. Comparably traditional Japanese martial arts which had their roots in the samurai, were more formal in nature and not taught to the commoner.
The top part of the keikogi is called the uwagi (uwa means "upper" and "gi" means clothes). The pants are called shitabaki, which is the Japanese word for pants.
Squid Sensei says:
A karate practitioner is called a: "Karateka".
Karate Uniforms "Gi"
How To Put On Your Gi Correctly
Gi's, the traditional uniform in Karate studios, come in different weights, weaves and an assortment of colors. In the winter the 8oz is a popular favorite with double weave and is great for grappling too. Choose 5oz to 6oz single weave for summer, or if you just prefer, a light weight Gi. White, black and blue are popular choices as well as red. Check with your dojo for what is required. Heavy weight 12oz are also available.
To put your GI on correctly:
Tuck the right side of the jacket beneath the left side. There should be strings at your left hip and on the tip of the right side of the jacket that you tie together into a bow for easy removal later.
Fold the left side of your jacket over and tie it using the strings at the right hip. Once both sides of the jacket are tied, stretch a bit and twist at the waist, making sure that you have total freedom of movement before continuing.
Tie your belt on over your Gi jacket. There are many different methods for tying the belt used by different schools of karate, but the all of them are tied in a knot with both ends of the belt coming out at a downward angle and hanging at an equal length to mid-hip. Once this part of the process is complete, you are ready to train!
To put your GI on correctly:
Tuck the right side of the jacket beneath the left side. There should be strings at your left hip and on the tip of the right side of the jacket that you tie together into a bow for easy removal later.
Fold the left side of your jacket over and tie it using the strings at the right hip. Once both sides of the jacket are tied, stretch a bit and twist at the waist, making sure that you have total freedom of movement before continuing.
Tie your belt on over your Gi jacket. There are many different methods for tying the belt used by different schools of karate, but the all of them are tied in a knot with both ends of the belt coming out at a downward angle and hanging at an equal length to mid-hip. Once this part of the process is complete, you are ready to train!
Karate T-Shirts
Women's Karate T-Shirts
Karate/MMA Shorts
Pro Performance stretch panel and split side seams for unrestricted range of motion. These shorts also include our bi-directional adjustable waistband system complete with internal drawstring.
Karate Weapons
Kobudo
Karate originated in Okinawa by farmers who were denied weapons by the local government. Karate practitioners used everyday farm tools for weapons. Several types of karate weapons survive today, such as the bo staff, the nunchaku, the sai, the tonfa and the kama.Only advanced practitioners of karate are trained to use these weapons. Karate was designed primarily as empty handed fighting. As a whole, the art of karate weaponry is known as kobudo.
Important!
Squid Sensei says:
"Weapons should only be used as a natural extension of your body, never rely on the weapon for its own power, for it has none."
Favorite Karate Weapon?
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Karate Staff
Martial Arts Weapons Bo Staff
The Bo was a common part of a tool for any farmer. The Bo emerged in Okinawa in the early part of the 17th century. Traditionally the Bo is approx. 6ft or 1.8 meters and made of hard wood. Thrusting, swinging, and striking techniques often resemble empty-hand movements.
One of my Senseis taught that a weapon is an extension of you or a limb. Advanced students in Karate incorporate a few basic weapons and none is more common than the Bo staff.
One of my Senseis taught that a weapon is an extension of you or a limb. Advanced students in Karate incorporate a few basic weapons and none is more common than the Bo staff.
Nunchaku
Karate Weapons: Nunchaku
The Nunchaku was believed to be used to thresh rice or soybeans. With the ban on weapons to commoners, many farmers crafted weapons from everyday tools. The Nunchaku exists in Japanese, Korean and Chinese martial arts. Traditional Okinawan forms use the sticks primarily to grip and lock, while Korean martial arts added strikes. Escrima the Filipino martial artists use the Nunchaku more for strikes.
The image we all have of Nunchaku is that of Bruce Lee, made famous in several of his movies.
The image we all have of Nunchaku is that of Bruce Lee, made famous in several of his movies.
Karate Sai
Karate Weapons
The sai (pronged truncheon) was used to stab, block, trap and punch. Karate practitioners often carried a sai in each hand, and a "spare"' at the belt. The weapon could also be thrown.
The sai is believed to have begun its origins as a pitchfork. As a weapon, it was used in conjunction with various karate stances and techniques, and in defense against sword attacks.
The sai is a very beautiful weapon and is commonly displayed on a wall.
The sai is believed to have begun its origins as a pitchfork. As a weapon, it was used in conjunction with various karate stances and techniques, and in defense against sword attacks.
The sai is a very beautiful weapon and is commonly displayed on a wall.
Tonfa
Karate Weapons: Tonfa
The origin of the tonfa is debated, but some believe it originated in China. The Chinese believed it was developed from a crutch. In Okinawa it is believed to have been originally a bean or rice grinder.
The tonfa's circular movements as a farm implement evolved into its rotating strikes as a weapon. The side of the tonfa was used for blocking, and the ends for direct punches. The tonfa is used as both a defensive and offensive weapon and in the hands of an expert is a confusing weapon to defend against.
The tonfa is basis for the PR-24 police baton. The combative element is somewhat different.
The tonfa's circular movements as a farm implement evolved into its rotating strikes as a weapon. The side of the tonfa was used for blocking, and the ends for direct punches. The tonfa is used as both a defensive and offensive weapon and in the hands of an expert is a confusing weapon to defend against.
The tonfa is basis for the PR-24 police baton. The combative element is somewhat different.
Karate Kama
Karate Weapons: Kama
Traditional Filipino and Japanese farming used the Kama for reaping crops.
The Kama is used today mostly for Kata competitions. Often competitors adapt their empty hand routine while holding the Kama with little actual Kama technique, or display elaborate weapon-juggling routines that are radically different from the Okinawan forms.
As a weapon, the Kama can be used offensively as a cutting weapon and defensively to block and trap an opponents weapon.
The Kama is used today mostly for Kata competitions. Often competitors adapt their empty hand routine while holding the Kama with little actual Kama technique, or display elaborate weapon-juggling routines that are radically different from the Okinawan forms.
As a weapon, the Kama can be used offensively as a cutting weapon and defensively to block and trap an opponents weapon.
“Squid Sensei says: After learning the techniques, it is best to practice them in full contact.”
Karate Gear Search
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Karate Sparring Gear
Sparring is part of Karate training. Good sparring gear is essential whether you are competing or just practicing. Katas and shadow boxing will only get you so far and does not do a whole lot for your ability to face your fears and put what you've learned to the test.
Injury is part of every sport; preventing injury with the right equipment not only gives you the competitive edge, it allows you to train for longer and with more confidence.
With gear in every color from black to pink, every size from child to adult, and for every budget, there's no reason to sacrifice your training and potential. Get smart, get the right gear.
Injury is part of every sport; preventing injury with the right equipment not only gives you the competitive edge, it allows you to train for longer and with more confidence.
With gear in every color from black to pink, every size from child to adult, and for every budget, there's no reason to sacrifice your training and potential. Get smart, get the right gear.
Mixed Martial Arts Training Kit
MMA Home Training
Get in the best shape of your life, while learning MMA techniques
Perform exhilarating, full-body workouts with the Inflatable Boxer
Learn Stand-Up and Take-Down techniques from celebrated Martial Arts trainers
Improve agility and flexibility with special drills
Includes Inflatable Boxer, Shadow Boxer, Hand Wraps for comfort and safety, Workout DVD, Workout Poster, Nutritional Guide
Perform exhilarating, full-body workouts with the Inflatable Boxer
Learn Stand-Up and Take-Down techniques from celebrated Martial Arts trainers
Improve agility and flexibility with special drills
Includes Inflatable Boxer, Shadow Boxer, Hand Wraps for comfort and safety, Workout DVD, Workout Poster, Nutritional Guide
Mixed Martial Arts Training Kit
Amazon Price: $29.99 (as of 06/02/2012)
Mixed Martial Arts Training Kit is the fun way to get fit! Need to blow off a little steam? Turn your energy into results! Mixed Martial Arts is one of the hottest forms of entertainment ever to hit the wide world of sports, and with this Training Kit, you can enjoy the benefits of the MMA workout! Inflatable Strike Trainer has prominent kick / punch targets that correspond to strike zones on an opponent, so you can practice your fighting style without having to recruit a sparring partner. Also includes resistance training band, workout poster, hand and wrist wraps, instructional DVD and foot-operated inflation pump. Please consult your doctor before beginning any exercise program. Order today, and get a real "kick" out of your next workout! Mixed Martial Arts Training Kit
Kids Karate MMA Training Kick Bag
Great for introducing kids to boxing, kickboxing, karate and other martial arts
Durable nylon covers high impact foam
Low profile base fills with sand or water; unit weighs approximately 170 pounds when filled
Four height adjustments
One year limited warranty; made in USA
Durable nylon covers high impact foam
Low profile base fills with sand or water; unit weighs approximately 170 pounds when filled
Four height adjustments
One year limited warranty; made in USA
Century Kid Kick Wavemaster
Amazon Price: $114.99 (as of 06/02/2012)
Designed for young martial artists, the Century® Kid Kick Wavemaster%u2122 is the perfect tool to help get your little one started. It features 4 height adjustments ranging from 37" to 52", and the rounded base offers easy-roll relocation.
Karate Training Gear
Karate Training Gear For The Complete Martial Artist
Karate/MMA Training/Conditioning Gear
Stay In Shape
These training/conditioning aids will help you maintain your competitive edge.
Karate/MMA Mouth Guards
Protect Your Teeth
Nothing is worse than a smile with missing teeth.
Martial Art Lenses
Check Them Out
Vote For Best Fighter In MMA. Soon you will see all the major disclpines and styles of martial arts explained in detail and compared both on a sport level and real world application.
I will also give your personal points of interest from my own experiences.
I will also give your personal points of interest from my own experiences.
Karate DVD/Video's
How to DVD/Video's and more
There is no substitute for mat time in the dojo. Yet part of every practitioner's learning process involves home practice, and using DVD/Video's can help in learning some techniques and aide in perfecting what your instructor/sensei is teaching you.
DVD/Video and books are NOT a substitute for a quality instructor and mat time. In addition, applying the techniques in DVD/Video and books without proper instruction can lead to injury.
DVD/Video and books are NOT a substitute for a quality instructor and mat time. In addition, applying the techniques in DVD/Video and books without proper instruction can lead to injury.
Vote On The Best Karate DVD
You've Seen The Video's What's Your Favoirte?
Karate For Kids
Studio: Kultur Release Date: 11/16/2004 Run time: more...0 points
Karate Books
Instructional, Historical
There is no substitute for mat time in the dojo. Yet part of every practitioner's learning process involves home practice, and using books can help in learning some techniques and aide in perfecting what your instructor/sensei is teaching you. Books can also give you knowledge and a historical account of the discipline you are studying.
DVD/Video and books are NOT a substitute for a quality instructor and mat time. In addition, applying the techniques in DVD/Video and books without proper instruction can lead to injury.
DVD/Video and books are NOT a substitute for a quality instructor and mat time. In addition, applying the techniques in DVD/Video and books without proper instruction can lead to injury.
Best Karate Books
Vote For The Best
The Kids' Karate Workbook: A Take-Home Training Guide for Young Martial Artists by Didi Goodman
The Kids' Karate Workbook is an engaging workbook meant more...0 points
Karate: The Complete Kata by Hirokazu Kanazawa
The martial art of karate can be practiced by anyone, more...0 points
The Twenty Guiding Principles of Karate: The Spiritual Legacy of the Master by Gichin Funakoshi, Jotaro Takagi
Gichin Funakoshi, "the father of karate," more...0 points
Traditional Japanese Karate: Illustrating 227 Techniques With Easy Terminology by Yasushi Abe
In this book, I will introduce traditional karate more...0 points
Favorite Karate Movies
Everyone likes a good movie and if you are looking at this page, you've probably seen them all and have your own favorites. Listed are just a few of the popular ones.
Karate Movie Poll
There are thousands of martial arts movies and we all have our own favorites. We will add more titles.
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Comments and Suggestions
Sign the guest book
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Black_Eagle_Martial_Arts
Feb 15, 2012 @ 4:28 am | delete
- I got your comment, would love to be featured on this lens!
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Placemats
Feb 17, 2012 @ 6:06 am | delete
- Let's do it then. My other Martial Art lenses would also benefit. In addition those blogs are just a starter point for my lens/blog/page for real information on each discipline and real world comparison. Which vids would you like to feature here?
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George S.
Jan 17, 2012 @ 1:55 pm | delete
- Good selection. Knowing how to properly put on your gi was a great addition, I was always confused about that.
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Placemats
Jan 20, 2012 @ 5:38 pm | delete
- Thank you for stopping by. The Gi for each discipline differs a little and so does the way you put it on.
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