Karate (空手?) (Japanese pronunciation: [kaɽate]  ( listen), English: /kəˈrɑːtiː/) is a martial art developed in the Ryukyu Islands(Okinawa) from indigenous fighting methods te (手, literally: "hand"?) and Chinese kenpō. Karate is characterized as a striking art using punching, kicking, knee and elbow strikes and open-handed techniques such as knife-hands (karate chop). Grappling, locks, restraints, throws, and vital point strikes are taught in some styles.

 

     For many practitioners, karate is a deeply philosophical practice. Karate-do teaches ethical principles and can have spiritual significance to its adherents. Gichin Funakoshi ("Father of Modern Karate") titled his autobiography Karate-Do: My Way of Life in recognition of the transforming nature of karate study.