The literal meaning of the two Japanese characters which make up the word karate is "empty hand". This of course refers to the fact that karate originated as a system of self-defense which relied on the effective use of the unarmed body of it's practitioner.  This system consisted of techniques of blocking  or thwarting  an attack and counterattacking the opponent by punching, kicking or striking. 

  The modern art of Karate was developed out of more thorough organization and rationalization of these techniques. There is three branches of present day karate, as a physical art, as a sport, and self-defense are all based on the use of the same fundamental techniques.

  Karate as a self-defense has the oldest history, going back hundreds of years. But it is only in recent years that the techniques have been handed down were scientifically studied and the principals evolved for making the most efficient use of various movements of the body. Training based on these principles and the knowledge of the workings of the muscles and joints and the vital relationship  between movement and balance enable the modern student of karate to be prepared both physically and psychologically to defend themselves successfully against any would-be assailant.

  As a physical art, karate is almost without equal. Since it is highly dynamic and makes use of a large number of body muscles, it provides excellent all-around exercise and develops coordination and agility. It is widely practiced by both children and older people as a means of keeping in top shape, and many schools are promoting it as a physical art among their students.

  As a sport, karate has the shortest history. Contest rules have been devised and refined so actual matches can be held as in any other sport.

  The common factor underlying in all karate techniques is the concrete application of the laws of physics, anatomy and psychology in such a way that maximum power can be attained. It is the constant search for ways to apply the laws of science to movements of the body that distinguishes karate from other sports, and the effectiveness of karate techniques, themselves is derived from this scientific orientation.

  No doubt the average student beginning to study karate could find the basic practice dull and would like to go on immediately to the more exciting movements, one can see on movies or video. But unless the student builds a firm foundation in the basic techniques by patiently practicing, over a period of time, his progress may be hampered by the lack of skill in the fundamentals.