Karate

What is karate?

Karate is a martial art – a form of fighting that has evolved into a sport.

How to compete

In karate, the athlete scores points by hitting the opponent with the hands and feet. Each hit is worth points. The opponent will try to block the hits, and try to score points of his/her own. Karate has different skill levels, represented by the colour of belt worn by the athlete. Black belt is the highest level. Athletes tend to compete against others of the same skill level. The competition may have two parts: the battle between two opponents, called a Kumite, and a demonstration of technical skills, called a Kate.

How to win

In the Kumite, the athlete who scores the most points against an opponent wins. In the Kate, the athletes are judged, and the one who earns the most points wins.

Equipment

Gloves – protect the hands and soften the punch to an opponent, to prevent serious injury
Belt – symbolizes the skill level of the athlete
Robe – the clothing worn in competition,similar to the kimono worn in judo