Karate within your grasp [antikvár]

1. The Growing Importance of Karate The purpose of this book is to give the fundamentals and basic rules needed for the practice of the art of karate. It is not our intention to take the place of instructors who are masters in unarmed combat, but rather to introduce the reader to the physical training which makes the feats of the karateka (one who practices karate) possible. The almost religious concentration, elasticity and vital energy of the great karatékas is one aspect not dealt with in this book. We only want you, the reader, to prepare yourself for a most effective self-defence technique and an exciting sport in the shortest possible time. A USEFUL SPORT The influence of judo and karate is now increasing in Western gymnasiums, where, until only a few years ago, practice and training were limited to boxing and the various forms of wrestling. At first glance, Oriental techniques appeared to be lacking the spectacle, emotion and popular support which boxing enjoys. But those who increasingly attend judo and karate exhibitions are not looking for the offensive brilliance of boxing, but rather the effectiveness of a method of self-defence which is applicable in the unforeseen occurrences of daily life, and not just in organized competitions. 5