Karate-do means “the way of the empty hand.” Of ancient origin, it is practiced throughout the world in many different styles. The Japanese style studied at Cal emphasizes physical, mental, and spiritual conditioning. Training consists of learning and practicing basic techniques (punches, kicks, blocks, and guards), kata (prearranged sequences of offensive and defensive techniques), kihon kumite (prearranged sparring forms), and jihu kumite (free sparring). A martial art and competitive sport, Karate is governed nationally by the USKA and internationally by WUKO.
