Karate is basically a word from the Japanese language that
means Empty Hands. So the martial art of Karate means an art of fighting where
you use the body-parts and you do not take help of any weapon. It is a martial
art that has been used for self-defense for hundreds of years. The art of
karate started in the 5th century BC. It was introduced by Bodhi dharma that
arrived in a small temple located in the forest of Shaolin-si in China. So
before appearing in Okinawa, a little is known about the origin of the art of
karate. Later this art was developed in Okinawa, a small island in Japan. There
were three cities in Okinawa including Naha, Shari and Tamari. The noble people
and kings of these cities developed their own self-defense forms for
themselves. These forms were known as Naha-te, Shuri-te and Tomari-te and
collectively all of these forms were known as Okinawa-Te. Initially it was a
close fisting fight technique that was used for self-defense in various parts
of Okinawa only. Later the merchants from other parts of the world brought this
fighting technique with them and it spread all over the world.
History of Karate Belts
Obi is the specific name that had been given to the karate
belt. It is considered an integral part of Gi i.e. uniform. The history of karate
belts can be traced from Shaolin Su Temple where karate was originated. During
ancient days, the monks used to wear a long sash that was wrap around. It was
not used as a part of clothing, but as a utility content. It was the custom of
those days not to wash your belt. It was only washed for the first time when
you got your first Obi. The belt is the representation of their determination
and their success. So the martial artists pay high respect to their belts.
Karate Belt Colors
The Obis are in different colors such as white, black,
orange, yellow, green, brown and red. Here, you will find how the karate belt
colors are significant. White Belt is used at the beginning of this art. It is
suggested to the students who have just enrolled in karate. Yellow belt is used
at the lower rank after the karate practice for several months. At the lower
rank some karate coaching centers also use the orange belt for replacing the
yellow belt after a training of several months. When the martial artist is
upgraded and reaches to the middle ranks, the color of the belt becomes darker
and his orange belt is replaced with Green. After green belt, the artist's belt
is replaced to blue or purple belt after the training of some more months
during the middle ranks. At the upper rank, the purple or blue belt is replaced
with the brown belt. It is suggested for the students who have learned this art
skillfully. Black belt is awarded to the martial artists who have passed five
years training in karate. According to the history of karate, it is considered
the second biggest award for the artists.
Conclusion
In short, karate is not an art, but very important training
for the people of all ages to develop their abilities and to get strong
muscular and cardiovascular system. The history of karate clears the fact that
it has been used for nearly one thousand years by the kings and the noble
people to polish their self-confidence, self-esteem and discipline.
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