| There is a misconception among many that | | | | of this uniform as a work-out suit. It is |
| karate is some sort of religion and | | | | specially designed for fighting. The collar |
| practicing it may conflict with ones faith. | | | | has multiple stitches to reinforce it. It is |
| Parents hesitate to enroll their child into a | | | | made in such a way to allow the body to move |
| karate school because they are afraid he or | | | | effortlessly in it.Why is everyone answering |
| she will be converted. They see everyone | | | | with this word "OSU!"? In the context this |
| dressed in white, barefoot, kneeling and | | | | word is being used, it means "I understand", |
| bowing to a picture of a person. No one | | | | "I will try harder", "I will make the |
| speaks unless spoken to.Karate teaches two | | | | effort", "I will persevere". It is always |
| very important concepts; respect, and | | | | used in a positive way. When everyone answers |
| discipline. These concepts are best taught | | | | at the same time, it demonstrate the |
| through repeated practice through Karate's | | | | concentration level of the group and |
| protocols on respect and discipline.Kneeling | | | | motivates everyone to try harder.In |
| down and closing your eyes before a class | | | | conclusion, the practice of karate has |
| starts is simply a practice to meditate and | | | | nothing to do with religion. It is simply a |
| empty the mind in order to focus 100% on your | | | | discipline that teaches mutual respect, |
| training.Then there is the bowing and | | | | non-violence, and personal development in |
| salutations to these ancient people. Again | | | | mind and body. Karate simply allows you to |
| this is a practice of respect to the founders | | | | respect yourself and others, and therefore |
| of the karate style. This is done in most | | | | should be a vehicle to reinforce your |
| martial art systems.Why barefoot? In karate, | | | | religious principles. There is a wealth of |
| your hands and feet, among other parts of | | | | information on the web regarding this topic. |
| your body, represent your weapons. Part of | | | | Just google faith martial arts. I hope this |
| your training is to develop these parts of | | | | article gave you a new perspective about |
| the body.Why do we wear these uniforms? Think | | | | faith in karate. |