What is Shotokan Karate?

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Shotokan karate is a dynamic martial art, which mainly consists of the three K's, these are as follows;

Kihon (basics).
Kata (a pattern of moves which can be used to defend yourself if attacked (bunkai).
Kumite (sparring).
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Most schools use a ranking system (belt system) which in most cases can indicate the level of expertise a instructor or student has, when you start training you are known as a kyu grade, if you study on a regular basis you eventually reach 1st dan black belt level.
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People take up karate for a variety of reasons, to keep fit, to build confidence, self defence, to enter competitions, because one of their friends or family are doing it.

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