Karate is one of the most famous forms of martial arts. It is primarily a striking martial art, using kicks, punches, knee and elbow strikes, and open hand strikes. It also utilizes grappling, locks, throws and vital point striking as ways to attack an opponent.

Karate uses stances and hip movement to generate striking power, as well as the use of breathing (exhaling sharply while delivering a blow) to focus one's power. Karate is also used to better one's character. There is no first strike in Karate - it is used only for self-defense. To not injure your opponent is one of the highest forms of the art.

Karate training is usually divided into three different areas. The first area is "kihon," or basics. This is the fundamental study of motion in the art. The second is "kata," or forms. This is a collection of moves and techniques to be used against specific forms of attack. Finally, there is "kumite," or sparring. Sparring is either constrained by rules or may be "free" sparring. It can be done for self-defense practice, or it can be competitive.

The popularity of Karate in the United States can be traced to the movies. Many action film stars have used Karate, or variations of Karate, in their films. These actors include Chuck Norris, Bruce Lee and Jean-Claude Van Damme. While their styles of Karate may vary from the original types of Karate, they have generated a great deal of attention and publicity for the art form.

There are many Karate schools across the United States that teach the various types of Karate and can help you begin your journey to competing in karate tournaments.