Karate is a traditional martial art that originated in the Ryukyu Kingdom, now known as Okinawa, Japan. It developed from native Okinawan fighting techniques combined with strong influences from Chinese martial arts, particularly those from Fujian province. Over time, Karate evolved into a highly disciplined system emphasising striking techniques, including punches, kicks, knee strikes, and open-hand techniques. Central to Karate practice are three core components:  kihon (basic techniques), kata  (formal patterns of movement), and kumite (sparring). These elements help practitioners build strength, discipline, coordination, and mental focus. Karate is not only a method of self-defence but also a path to self-improvement, fostering respect, perseverance, and inner calm through rigorous physical and mental training.

Karate was introduced to England in the mid-20th century by British servicemen who encountered it in Japan and Okinawa during and after World War II. Structured karate practice began in the UK in the 1950s. In 1956, Vernon Bell, a judoka and martial arts pioneer, formally introduced karate to Britain after training under Henry Plée at the Yoseikan dojo in Paris. Plée had studied under Japanese masters, giving Bell direct exposure to authentic Shotokan Karate. That same year, Bell founded the British Karate Federation (BKF), the UK’s first karate organisation. In 1965, the Japan Karate Association (JKA) sent instructors like Hirokazu Kanazawa and Keinosuke Enoeda to Britain. Kanazawa led the Karate Union of Great Britain (KUGB), later followed by Enoeda, whose dynamic teaching helped spread Shotokan Karate across the UK.

By the late 1960s and 1970s, karate had become a national movement in England. Styles like Wado-Ryu (introduced by Tatsuo Suzuki), Goju-Ryu (by James Rousseau and others), and Shito-Ryu gained ground. British karatekas began competing internationally with success, and in 1975, the Great Britain men’s kumite team made history by defeating Japan in the World Championship final—Japan’s first loss in team competition. This marked the UK as a global karate powerhouse. Over time, national bodies formed to govern karate, many aligned with the World Karate Federation (WKF). Today, karate thrives across England in traditional, sport, and self-defence forms, with the English Karate National Governing Body (EKNGB) working to unify and lead the community forward.