International
Karate-Do
Organization
Examination Guide
January 2020
International Karate-Do Organization
Chapter One
History of Karate
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Karate: Yesterday and Today
The mythical origin of karate dates back more than a thousand years. Legend has it that
Dharma, founder of Buddhism, went to the Shoa Lin Monastery in China and taught his students
physical strength so that they could carry out the rigid discipline that was part of their religion. This
physical training method developed into what is known as the Sha Lin art of fighting.
The Shoa Lin style of fighting was imported to Okinawa by merchants who traded in China,
Japan, Korea, and the Southeast Asia and blended with the indigenous fighting techniques of the
islands. The lord of ancient Okinawa and later the feudal lord of Kagoshima on the southernmost tip
of Kyushu in Japan, banned the use of weapons, thus giving rise to the development of empty-hand
fighting and self-defense techniques. This martial art, due to its Chinese origin was called, “Toda”,
written in characters with the literal meaning “Chinese Hand”.
Gichin Funakoshi
The man who brought the Okinawa empty hand arts into the modern era and the founder of
the Japanese style of Shotokan karate was Master Gichin Funakoshi. Master Funakoshi was born in
Shuri, Okinawa in 1868. At the age of eleven, he became a pupil of Master Azato, and later a pupil
of Master Itosu. Master Funakoshi was very frail as a child, but gained rapidly in health only after
his introduction to Toda.
His instructors Yasutsune Azato and Yasustsune Itosu were more than mere fighters. They
taught the young Funakoshi philosophy and religion. They instilled in him the idea of developing
strong character through physical and mental discipline.
In the late 1800’s, Toda was finally introduced to the Okinawan public at the Shuri Teacher’s
School. In 1905, Master Funakoshi and a number of his students gave the first public demonstration
if their art in Okinawa. Prior to this all karate training was carried on in secret because the study of
this martial art was illegal.
In 1917, Mr. Funakoshi was selected to demonstrate his art before the visiting Crown Prince
of Japan. So great was the Japanese interest in Toda, that they invited Mr. Funakoshi to Japan to
show this skill at the National Sports Exhibit in 1922 which featured traditional martial arts. At the
prompting of the Japanese, and in particular Jigori Kano, the founder of Judo, Master Funakoshi
stayed in Japan to teach and develop this his art.
When master Funakoshi was to demonstrate karate in Japan he felt obligated to represent all
the Okinawan styles, rather than just his own. To accurately represent the various styles, rather than
just his own, he polled every known master of Toda in Okinawa and selected from each what he
thought to be the best representative elements of their style.
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*It is important to mention that these were the personal styles of the masters and do not refer
to the complete systems that the modern usage of the term, “style” implies.
These elements he took to Japan in the form of fifteen kata or forms; these are the same
fifteen kata which today are the basis of Shotokan karate. Ten of these kata were ancient, traditional
forms, while five of them were devised by Itosu and Funakoshi. These five, the Heian
kata(originally known as the Pinan kata) were designed specifically for the training of beginners and
for the use in relevance of the naming these katas as such, is that once these kata are mastered, the
practitioner will be at peace because of his ability to defend himself. The other ten kata are Tekki
Shodan, Tekki Nidan, Tekki Sandan, Empi, Bassai-Dai, Jion, Kanku-Dai, Hangetsu, Gankaku, and
Jitte. Master Funakoshi chose these kata because they had a variety of techniques he felt provided
well rounded training. The kata can be divided into two broad groups: Shorin-Ryu and ShoreiRyu(also know as Shuri-Te and Naha-Te respectively). The Shorei school emphasized strength and
firm movements, while the Shorin school developed agility and quick movements. Empi represents
the Shorei school and Bassai-Dai is movements. Empi represents the Shorei school and Bassai-Dai
is indicative of the Shoren school
*In the past these two groups have often been confused, even by the Master himself.
Therefore, do not be concerned with the classifications themselves as much as their existence.
The Meaning of Karate
After Master Funakoshi had settled in Japan and begun teaching, he changed the name of
Toda. The “to” of Toda can also be pronounced as “kara”, both of which have the meaning of
“Chinese”. Master Funakoshi changed the ideogram of the “kara” to another, also pronounced the
same but with the meaning of empty. The new characters now meant “empty hand”.
He chose the character for its meaning in Zen Buddhist philosophy, “rendering oneself
empty”. To him, karate was a martial art, but it was also a means of building character. He wrote,
“As a mirror’s polished surface reflects whatever stands before it and a quiet valley carries even
small sounds, so must the student of karate render his mind empty of selfishness and wickedness in
an effort to react appropriately toward anything he might encounter.” This is the meaning of kara, or
“empty” of karate.
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The Development of Shotokan
In 1939, Master Funakoshi opened his first public dojo. He simply preferred to call his art
karate-do, “the way of karate”. Others found it necessary to distinguish Master Funakoshi’s karate
from the other styles which soon began to flourish in Japan. Since he was widely known by his pen
name, “Shoto”, his dojo became known as the Shotokan, “the building of Shoto.” Thus, Master
Funakoshi’s karate became known as Shotokan karate, the karate practiced at Shoto’s building.
Within then years of Mr. Funakoshi’s arrival in Japan, karate became a formal, systematized
Japanese art. It also spawned numerous offspring in the forms of other “ryu” or schools. While
some unqualified people tried to capitalize on karate’s growing popularity, many sincere disciples
formulated valid systems of their own. Most notably among these were Choijun Miyagi of Gojuryu, who was from the Naha-te school; Hironori Ohtsuka of Wado-ryu who formed his own
independent system after studying under Master Funakoshi for many years. These people along with
many of Master Funakoshi’s students (most notably Master Masatoshi Nakayama) brought karate to
public attention, first through the universities and later through commercial dojo (training halls).
Modern Karate
The role of karate in the modern age is multiple. As a practical means of self-defense, it is
widely taught in private clubs, and throughout the world it is a part of training programs for the
police and members of the armed forces. A great number of universities and colleges now include
karate in their physical education programs. Throughout the world karate is gaining popularity as a
competitive sport, one which stresses mental discipline as well as physical prowess. What was
originally developed in the Orient as a martial art has survived and changed through the centuries to
become not only a highly effective means of unarmed self-defense but also an exciting , challenging
sport by enthusiasts throughout the world.
As a student of karate you should learn the techniques on a scientific basis, under an instructor
employing a properly scheduled training system, otherwise your efforts will be in vain.
Karate training can only be considered scientific when it is conducted on the basis of correct
physiological principles. Karate should be viewed from a broad standpoint. From the point of its
development as a modern martial art ad from the physical education aspect also, the ultimate goal of
karate should be the attainment of a developed moral character build through hard and diligent
training.
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What is Karate?
As you read previously, the literal translation of karate is, “empty hand”. This, of course,
refers simply to the fact that karate originated as a system of self-defense of the unarmed individual.
The system consists of techniques of thwarting an attack and counter attacking by bunching, striking,
or kicking as opposed to throwing or joint manipulation as in judo or akido. The modern art of karate
was developed out of a more thorough organization and rationalization of the techniques Master
Funakoshi learned from Masters Itosu and Azato. The three branches of present day karate are: a
physical art, a sport, and a self-defense.
Karate as a means of self-defense has an ancient history, going back hundreds of years, but it
was not until the 1950’s and 60’s that the techniques which were handed down were scientifically
studied by Americans. Training based on such principles, including a working knowledge of the
muscles and joints, enables the modern day karate student to defend him/her self successfully against
any would-be assailant.
As a physical art, karate is almost without equal. Since it is highly dynamic and makes
balanced use of a large number of body muscles, it also provides excellent all around exercise and
develops coordination and agility. Training also gives men and women the added benefit of
improving or maintaining physical appearance. It is widely practiced by both children and older
people as a means of keeping themselves in top physical shape and many schools are promoting it as
a physical art among their students.
As a sport, karate has a relatively short history. However, contest rules have been devised
and matches are held as in other competitive sports. Because of its speed and variety of its
techniques and split second timing that is required, many athletic minded people have come to show
an interest in competitive karate.
Students of karate may be interested to know that karate emphasizes its character building
aspects, in which respect for one’s opponent and sportsmanship are the cardinal principles. The
maxims which are taught to students can be summarized in the following five words:
CHARACTER
SINCERITY
EFFORT
ETIQUETTE
SELF-CONTROL
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Chapter Two
Dojo Formalities
And
Terminology
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Basic Etiquette
1.
Always bow upon entering and leaving the dojo.
2.
In the dojo, karate is your only concern.
3.
Always address your instructor as “sensei”
4.
If the sensei corrects your techniques, respond with a clear, “hai Sensei” (yes teacher).
5.
Always thank the sensei and sempai (higher ranking student) for help.
6.
Help keep the dojo clean and orderly before training by sweeping, moving equipment, etc.
7.
Never correct or criticize your sempai.
8.
It is impolite to leave before class is over without permission. If you have a commitment,
make arrangements with your sensei before the class begins.
9.
If you do arrive late for class, bow and join the class without disturbing them after your
sensei gives you permission to do so.
10.
If you have become ill during class, ask your sensei for permission to leave.
11.
If the sensei asks for extra effort or spirit, all should reply with a spirited, “Hai” or “Oss”.
12.
Always bow to your partner as a sign of mutual respect.
13.
Do not abuse your knowledge of the martial arts. Doing so will result in exclusion from
training privileges.
14.
No gum or candy is permitted while in class.
15.
All jewelry should be removed prior to participation.
16.
Refrain from unnecessary talking while class is in session.
17.
Students who arrive early should warm up and practice quietly while waiting.
18.
Class observers should be quiet while class is in session.
19.
Children should be accompanied by parents while watching class.
20.
No food or drink is allowed in the classroom area at any time.
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Basic Karate Dictionary
The following Japanese words are the basic ones used in the karate dojo. You will find it easier to
learn these terms if you listen closely during class and use these terms when talking about karate.
Term
Pronunciation
Definition
Dojo
Hai
Hajime
Gi
Karate
Kata
Kihon
Kumite
Kiai
Mokuso
Osu
Otagai ni rei
Rei
Sensei ni rei
Sensei
Sempai
Shomeni-rei
Undo
Yoi
Yowaku
Yame
Yukkuri
Doh-joh
Hi
Hah-jee-meh
Gee
Kah-ra-tay
Kah-tah
Kee-hone
Koo-me-tay
Kee-eye
Moo-koo-sow
Oss
Oh-tah-gani-ray
Ray
Sensay-knee-ray
Sen-say
Sem-p-eye
Show-may-knee-ray
Ooh-doh
Yohee
Yo-wah-koo
Yah-mey
Yoo-koo-ree
Training hall
Used as affirmation as in “yes” or “ok”
Begin/start/go
Uniform
The Japanese art of unarmed fighting
Forms
Basic techniques
Sparring
Yell/scream
Meditation
Traditional greeting
Bow to each other
Bow
Bow to teacher
Teacher
Senior student
Bow to flag
Exercises/Calisthenics
Ready
Move lightly
Stop
Move more slowly
Regions of the Body
Jodan
Chudan
Gedan
Joe-dan
Chew-don
Gay-don
Face/neck/head
Chest/side/back
Below waist
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Number
Pronunciation
English Number
Ichi
Ni
San
Shi
Go
Roku
Shichi
Hachi
Ku
Ju
Eechee
knee
Sun
She
Go
Row-koo
See-chee
Hah-chee
Koo
Jew
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Ju-ichi
Ju-ni
Ju-san
Ju-shi
Ju-go
Ju-roku
Ju-shichi
Ju-hachi
Ju-ku
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
Ni-ju
San-ju
Shi-ju
Go-ju
Roku-ju
Sichi-ju
Hachi-ju
Kyu-ju
Hyaku
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
Names of the 15 Original Shotokan Kata
Kyu-Rank Kata
Heian Shodan
Neian Nidan
Heian Sandan
Heian Yondan
Neian Godan
Tekki Shodan
Dan-Rank Kata
Tekki Nidan
Tekki Sandan
Bassai Dai
Jion
Empi
Kanku Dai
Hangetsu
Gankaku
Jitte
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Glossary of Techniques
Terms
Age/uke
Gedan Barai
Gyaku/zuki
Kata
Kiba Dachi
Kihon
Kizami
Kokutsu Dachi
Mae/geri
Mai/geri-ren/geri
Mawashi/geri
Mawashi/geri Ren/geri
Nekko Ashi Dashi
Nukite
Oi/zuki
Sanbon/zuki
Shizentai
Shuto/uki
Soto ude/uki
Tate Uraken/uchi
Tsuki
Uke
Uchi Ude/uke
Ushiro/geri
Yoko Enpi/uchi
Yoko Keage Geri
Yoko Kekomi Geri
Yoko Uraken/uchi
Zenkutsu dachi
Definition
Rising Block
Downward Block
Reverse Punch
Form
Straddle leg stance
Basic Techniques
Forward Stance with short technique
Back Stance
Front Kick
Double Front Kick
Round House Kick
Double Round House Kick
Cat Stance
Spear Hand Trust (straight)
Lunge Punch
Triple Punch
Natural Stance
Knife Hand Block
Outside Forearm Block
Back Fist Strike (downward)
Punch
To Block
Inside Forearm Block
Back Kick
Elbow Strike (sideward)
Side Snap Kick
Side Thrust Kick
Back Fist Strike (sideward)
Forward Stance
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The 15 Original Shotokan Katas
Listed below are the 15 katas which Gichin Funakoshi brought to Japan. The katas are broken up
into two categories: 6 basic and 9 intermediate.
The 6 basic Katas of Shotokan Karate
Name of Kata
Comments
Points to be Learned
Heian Shodan
(peaceful #1)
Originally named
Pinan, with 1 &2
reversed order.
Created by U. Itosu
For use in PE classes
In 1905. Heian is
Contracted of heian-antei
(peace & calmness)
Front stance, back stance
stepping patterns, and lunge
Punch
Neian Nidan
(peaceful #2)
(same as above)
Front kick, side kick while
changing directions
Heian Sandan
(peaceful #3)
(same as above)
Body connections in forearm
blocking, back fist strike
(same as above)
Balance, variation in technique
Heian Godan
(peaceful #5)
(same as above)
Balance and jumping
Tekki Shodan
(horse riding #1)
Very old Suri-te
kata, also called
straddle-leg stance, hip
vibration
Heian Yondan
(peaceful #4)
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The 9 intermediate Katas of Shotokan Karate
Name of Kata
Comments
Points to be Learned
Tekki Nidan (horse riding #2)
Modeled after Tekki #1 and
created by Y. Itosu
Grasping and hooking blocks
Tekki Sandan (horse riding #3)
(same as above)
Continuous middle-level
blocking
Bassai Dai (To penetrate a
fortress)
One of the oldest katas; also
called Patsai, Patasai, or
Passai. Common in various
forms and styles, & can be
traced back to ancient
Oyadormari
Changing disadvantage to
advantage by use of switching
blocks and differing degrees
of power
Jion
Of Chinese origin. Named
after the Jion Temple in China
This kata hides powerful
attacking techniques within
harmonious peace-full
movements. Actually
practiced in Shotokan &
Wado-Ryu styles only
Empi (flying swallow)
Previously named Wansu of
Chines origin. Named
because of its sharp, snappy
movements like the swallow.
Performer deliberately creates
unguarded movements in his
defense in an attempt to
induce his enemy to attack
Kanku Dai (look at the sky)
Previously named Kushanju.
Y. Itosu took various
movements from this kata to
create the 5 heian katas.
Symbolizes the defenses and
counter attacks against 8
adversaries
Hangetsu (half-moon)
Taken from the kata Seishan
Takes its name from the
distinctive curved foot
movements
Gankaku (crane on a rock)
Previously named Shinto. It
belongs to the Shorei style as
explained by Mr. Funakoshi
Concentrates on power and
balance while standing on one
leg
Jitte (10 hands)
This kata has only 27
movements
Practiced for defense against
the bow. Includes interesting
ways of twisting the wrists
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Karate Ranking
The belt ranking system used in karate is based on similar ranking systems in other Japanese
martial arts. Karate ranking has its basis in technical competence and character development, but at
higher levels teaching and dedication are important factors. Karate ranking is used to measure
progress and to provide feedback and incentives in training. As such, rank is not an end in itself. In
fact, the process of learning karate can be a life long endeavor. For example, it takes an average of
three to five years to attain the rank of first degree black belt, yet this level is considered a new
beginning in karate training.
The use of ranking in karate came about after the art had been introduced to Japan by Gichin
Funakoshi. Mr. Funakoshi wanted to transform karate from an unorganized system of self-defense
to a respected martial art. To do this, he developed a formal system of teaching, practice and
etiquette. As a part of this effort, Mr. Funakoshi patterned both the white karate uniform and the belt
ranking system to those used in judo.
The ranking system of the International Karate-Do Organization is found within the pages of
this manual. Variations in the testing procedures ma occur depending on the age and experience of
the students being tested. The following is a list of the rank which may be attained:
Ku-Kyu
Hachi-Kyu
Shichi-Kyu
Roku-Kyu
Go-Kyu
Shi-Kyu
San-Kyu
Ni-Kyu
Ik-kyu
Sho-dan
Ni-dan
San-dan
Yon-dan
Go-dan
Roku-dan
Shichi-dan
Hachi-dan
Ku-dan
Ju-dan
9th Kyu
8th Kyu
7th Kyu
6th Kyu
5th Kyu
4th Kyu
3rd Kyu
2nd Kyu
1st Kyu
Yellow belt
Orange belt
Green belt
Blue belt
Purple belt
High purple belt
Third brown belt
Second brown belt
First brown belt
First degree black belt
Second degree black belt
Third degree black belt
Fourth degree black belt
Fifth degree black belt
Sixth degree black belt
Seventh degree black belt
Eighth degree black belt
Ninth degree black belt
Tenth degree black belt
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There are three basic methods of conferring class or rank
1. Examination: For each Kyu class and for each dan rank, there are certain precise requirements
pertaining to hours practiced, techniques mastered, etc., which must be fulfilled.
2. Honorary: For contributions to the introduction and promotion of karate.
3. Combination of examination and honorary- one supplementing the other.
KYU RANKING
1. All Kyu ranks are subject to grades in which tips may be worn on belt.
2. Basic Techniques include all stances, punches, strikes, blocks, and kicks. All body movements
include stepping, rotating, vibrating and shifting.
3. Each level of rank requires that the individual has accomplished all preceding rank requirements.
4. Pre-karate (ages 4-7) and youth (ages 8-14) requirements may vary by local and state standards
5. There are no age requirements for the Kyu ranks.
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