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