KARATE

Karate (空手),The literal meaning of the two Japanese characters which make up the word "karate" is "empty hands."  Karate is a martial art which was developed in Japan after many centuries of evolution in the orient.  It is an art that requires a great deal of both mental and physical discipline from its students.  It is considered to be one of the finest forms of exercise in

practice today.  The ultimate aim of

Karate lies not in winning the fight, but

rather in the perfection of the student's

character.  As in all traditional Japanese

arts, the object of Karate is found in the

way in which people strive to develop

themselves through the systematic

training of their mind, body and spirit

to the height of human potential.  Karate

is manifested in the expression of power

and movement; its method is the

disciplined use of the entire body; its means are the defensive movements of blocking, striking, punching and kicking.  Thus Karate is not merely a form of self-defense.  It is also a method of self-awareness.  The complete mental control required to master the physical movements, and the effort and discipline put forth in the harmonizing of the mind and body, lay the foundation for the development of good citizenship and strong character.  Karate is an art which can benefit all.  Gosoku Ryu and Shudo Kan are the styles studied.