Karate is a Japanese Martial Arts Style developed in Ryukyu Kingdom of Japan around 200 years ago. Karate primarily uses punches, kicks, blocks, elbows, chops, pressure point techniques, self defence techniques. Karate consists of three things which are Kihon, Kata, and Kumite. World Karate Federation (WKF) is the largest karate sport organisation. Karate is now an Olympic game. The father of modern karate is credited to Gichin Funakoshi. The reason for so many styles of karate is that most of the masters have their own techniques and influence in karate. The 4 main types of karate styles are Shotokan, Goju-ryu,Wado-ryu and Shito-ryu.
1. Shotokan
Shotokan was created by Gichin Funakoshi who introduced this style of karate in 1922 in Japan. Gichin Funakoshi had put together and simplified Shōrei-ryū and Shōrin-ryū. This style have deeper and longer stances and consists of 26 katas. This style enables to deliver splendid attacks in a faster and efficient manner. This style of karate is widely known throughout the world.
2. Goju-Ryu
Goju-Ryu was founded by Chōjun Miyagi in 1930 in Okinawa, Japan. Goju-Ryu was created by the influence of Fujian White Crane and Naha-te. This style have normal stances and consists of 12 katas. This style comprises counter strike in offence and is similar to jiu jitsu in defence. This style uses breathing power, variety of stances and hard techniques.
3. Wado-Ryu
Wado-Ryu was founded by Hironori Otsuka in 1939 in Japan. Wado-Ryu is influenced by Shindo, Yoshin-ryu, Jujutsu, Tomari-te and Shotokan. This style of karate have shorter stances and consists of 15 katas. This style focuses on the movement of the body to avoid attacks.
4. Shito-Ryu
Shito-Ryu was founded by Kenwa Mabuni in 1934 in Japan. Shito-Ryu is influenced by Shuri-te and Naha-te. This style of karate have natural but strong stances and consists of 94 katas. This style focuses on powerful and accurate attacks. It places high emphasis on its techniques. The Shito-ryu is primarily practiced in Osaka
