Beckenham Shotokan Karate Club

Karate may be defined as a weaponless means of defence. It consists of dynamic offensive and defensive techniques using all parts of the body to their maximum advantage. Karate can also be described as a martial art, or fighting method, involving a variety of techniques, including blocks, strikes, evasions, throws, and joint manipulations.

In each category the beginner is given instruction at the most basic level until the techniques become spontaneous to him. As the student progresses technically, he progresses physically and his practice demands greater stamina. At this stage he involves himself with the more intricate and difficult katas and more dynamic forms of kumite. As the student approaches black belt level, technique, stamina, speed and coordination become natural tohim as a result of strong practice. It is at this stage that the serious student discovers that he has only just begun his study of karate.