Karate

Karate is a martial art that primarily features punching, kicking, knee strikes, elbow strikes and open-hand techniques. Karate is the Japanese word for 'empty hand' and represents a form of self-defence.

In Kata (forms), athletes stand alone in the arena, doing a formalised sequence of movements (a ‘kata’) which represent offensive and defensive postures. These target a virtual opponent. There are 102 recognized 'katas', and the karateka chooses which kata they will demonstrate from these. All kata begin and end with a bow, or “Rei”, a testament to the sport’s values of respect and tradition.

In Kumite (sparring), two karatekas face each other. Competitors can use punches, kicks or takedowns against their opponents. Attacks are limited to head, face, neck, abdomen, chest, back and side. Points are awarded when techniques are performed with good form, excellent timing, vigorous application and correct distance. To win, an athlete must either reach an 8-point advantage within the bout duration, or have the most points at the end of the bout. The duration of the bouts is three minutes.