About Shotokan Karate
Shotokan Karate originated in Okinawa, a small island south
of Japan. It was popularised in Japan by Gichin Funakoshi in
the 1950s. The name "Shotokan" comes from the name "Shoto," which
was Gichin Funakoshi's pen name. Karate came from Chinese word
"kara" means empty and "te" means hand, which
means Empty Hands. Karate-do : The Way of the Empty Hand
Shotokan Karate is a traditional martial art. This means that
improvements in character and mental discipline are as important
as physical skill, if not more so. Shotokan Karate is meant to
be accessible to all, including, women, children, and those without
great athletic ability. Shotokan Karate Institute of
New Zealand offers
a caring, safe environment where children can learn the art of
karate. Its practice leads to:
- Muscular and Aerobic fitness
- Body alignment, balance and movement
- Increased perceptual awareness
- Stress management
- Concentration, confidence and discipline
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