The ancient practice of exercising bones and muscles, combined with breathing, is thought to have originated in China. During the second half of the 14th century, it is suggested that the Chinese masters relayed some of their secrets to their Japanese counterparts because the first form of karate emerged in Okinawa shortly afterwards. However, during the 17th century the art was outlawed and eventually all fighting weapons were confiscated. This action resulted in a major impact on the imported Chinese methods of combat. Firstly, the art was renamed 'te', a deadly defensive system of combat using only the hands. Secondly, the Okinawan farmers substituted blunt farm implements to use as fighting weapons (see under Nunchacku, Tonfa and Sai).

By the early 20th century, te practice was being taught in Japanese schools under the name of karate-jutsu (from the Chinese meaning 'art of the hands'). A new style emerging in 1932 became the birth of modern karate (art of empty hands). Four years later the first Shotokan school of karate was established by Gichin Funakoshi. Based on his teaching, the Japanese Karate Association was founded in 1948.

Remaining the best known, and the most popular form of karate, Shotokan focuses on etiquette, vitality, competition and the sporting aspects whilst remaining true to its Okinawan origins. Other techniques founded about the same time include the Goju-Ryu, highly influenced by Master Yamaguchi Gogen, and the Shotokai school run by Master Egami where the emphasis is heavily upon spiritual development.

Training is based on the knowledge of the working of muscles and joints, and the relationship between movement and balance. Physically, the art of karate is almost without equal, providing excellent all-round exercise while at the same time developing co-ordination and agility. The three basic movements that need to be mastered in the study of karate are attacking with the fist, with the sole or heel of the foot, and circular kicks. In Japan, great emphasis is placed on the character-building aspects of karate and these ideals are easily summarised in five words – character, sincerity, effort, etiquette and self-control.