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" meaning "empty" and "te" meaning hand, which forms "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