Modernization Of Karate
Throughout the span of Karate history, Karate evolves as time passes. During
early years of Karate in the 17th century, it was primarily practiced in secret and
passed down thorough generations. In the early 20th century, emphasis of
development of character and spiritual aspect alongside physical techniques
led to the incorporation of moral and philosophical teaching. Karate is later
standardized due to its popularity in terms of its techniques and terminology.
Standardized kata and grading systems were also established. The competitive
side of Karate was later started in the mid-20th century where tournaments
were organized with an established set of rules so that practitioners were able
to test their skills against others.
As Karate modernize, the development of Karate led to the branches of styles
due to factors such as regional influences, the founder’s influences, personal
interpretation, organizational split and difference in emphasis and focus.
Regional influence
Even though Karate’s origin is from Okinawa, upon encountering different kinds
of martial arts traditions and local customs through its spread to other parts of
the world, it opens up to the possibility of integrating and assimilating various
techniques and philosophies from other martial arts practices. This led to the
emergence of different regional styles.
Founder’s influence
The founders of the Karate’s styles heavily influence the development of its
distinct style. This is due to their perspectives, training methods and
philosophical beliefs which help shape their form of Karate.
Personal interpretation
Karate styles are able to diversify due to the fact that Karate itself is an art form
which allows an individual to express and interpret in their own way. This
causes them to begin and develop their own variation and modifications based
on their strengths, preferences and insights.
Organizational split
Due to differing ideologies, teaching methodologies and personal
disagreements, separate organizations are formed which represent specific
styles or lineages.
Emphasis and Focus
Depending on the Karate style, different emphasis on certain aspects of
training may differ. This emphasis and training methods are what differentiate
the styles of Karate we know today.