A t the outset karate was a martial art – that is, -unarmed techniques of self-defense aimed at killing in combat. It originated on the island of Okinawa, where the techniques were kept secret until 1922, when Master Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of modern-day karate, was invited to give a demonstration in mainland Japan. Thereafter he developed it into a sport that has amassed a huge international following. Lebanon is no exception. Why the enthusiasm? Karate is an exciting sport and its techniques improve physical skills like coordination, balance and timing. Additionally, karate embraces philosophies that govern practitioners’ personal conduct. “Karate is a discipline – it’s a way of life,” says Fadi Aoun, a third degree black belt instructor. Karate practitioners adhere to five basic principles: seek perfection of character, be faithful, endeavor, respect others and refrain from violent behavior. If the last sounds contradictory, Aoun, a lawyer by profession,
