Outdoor and Rec Athletics 0101 - Beg. Shotokan Karate

Shotokan Karate began as an unarmed form of self-defense for civilians native to the Ryukyu island chain off the southern coast of Japan: Okinawa. During the forceful annexation of Okinawa to the main island of Japan in the late 19th century, any individual with a working comprehension of hand-to-hand combat was considered a threat to the Japanese military incursions. Training and practice of karate had to be held in secret and late at night. No previous experience in any martial art is required for this class. Students will explore and practice the basics (kihon) of standing, blocking, striking and kicking. Using balance, timing and coordination we will begin to thread these individual techniques into larger sequences of movements called kata (forms). Within each kata resides the origin of combat with regard to one or more opponents. Students will engage in paired exercises using isolated techniques from the kata to form basic drills of sparring (kumite). Beginning students will have the opportunity to observe OR participate in the semi-annual Kyu Test taking place at the end of each semester for formal feedback on their technique. Please come to class well hydrated and in maneuverable clothing suited for highly active movements. Class meets in the South Lounge on the 2nd floor of the Robert Crown Center. 5-College students will be graded pass/fail. "There is no first strike in karate," - Principle #2, Master Gichin Funakoshi.

Accepted for CEL 1 Credit