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