空手道 (Karate) is a traditional Japanese martial art that focuses on striking techniques, including punches, kicks, knee strikes, and elbow strikes. It emphasizes discipline, respect, and self-control, making it not only a physical practice but also a mental and spiritual one. Practitioners, known as 空手家 (karateka), train in various forms, or 型 (kata), which are pre-arranged sequences of movements. Originating in the Okinawan islands, 空手道 combines indigenous fighting styles with influences from Chinese martial arts. It gained popularity in Japan during the early 20th century and has since spread worldwide. Today, it is practiced both as a sport and a means of self-defense, with various styles such as 松濤館流 (Shotokan) and 空手道 (Goju-Ryu) being widely recognized.