What Is Karate? Origins, History & Evolution
By Mo-ichido England • Updated 2025
Karate is a striking-based martial art that originated on the island of Okinawa, Japan. Known today for its powerful punches, dynamic kicks, kata performance, and disciplined training, Karate has grown from a small regional fighting system into one of the world’s most practised martial arts.
The Early Foundations of Karate
The earliest roots of Karate date back to the Ryukyu Kingdom (modern Okinawa), where indigenous fighting methods known as *Te* (“hand”) blended with Chinese martial arts brought over by traders, monks, and diplomatic envoys.
By the 17th century, weapon bans imposed by the ruling Satsuma clan pushed Okinawans to refine their empty-hand techniques, strengthening the development of Karate as a practical form of self-defence.
The Development of the Three Main Okinawan Styles
Okinawan Karate evolved into three major regional variations:
- Shuri-te – fast, linear, and influenced heavily by Chinese white crane systems.
- Naha-te – rooted in breathing, tension, and close-range striking.
- Tomari-te – a blend of both, often taught in coastal communities.
These would later become the foundations of today’s major styles: Shotokan, Goju-ryu, Shito-ryu and Shorin-ryu.
Gichin Funakoshi and the Birth of Modern Karate
Karate was introduced to mainland Japan in 1922 by Gichin Funakoshi, a schoolteacher from Okinawa. Funakoshi standardised techniques, introduced the coloured belt ranking system, and emphasised the importance of character and discipline.
His style became known as Shotokan Karate, the same system taught today at Mo-ichido England.
Karate’s Worldwide Expansion
After the Second World War, Karate spread rapidly across the world through Japanese masters teaching abroad. By the 1960s and 70s, Karate had become globally recognised thanks to demonstrations, international competitions, and films that brought martial arts to mainstream audiences.
Why Karate Is Still Popular Today
Modern Karate training offers a unique combination of fitness, discipline and self-defence skills. Students benefit from:
- Improved strength, balance and flexibility
- Greater mental focus and confidence
- Structured, goal-based progression
- A supportive community and dojo culture
Whether you train for fitness, confidence, competition, or personal development, Karate remains one of the most comprehensive martial arts available.
Interested in Learning Karate?
Join us at Mo-ichido England in Epsom or Fareham for friendly, traditional Shotokan Karate classes for all ages.
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