Here are definitions and descriptions of several basic Karate terms. Recommended readings are the "Karate-do Kyohan", by Funakoshi Gichin, and "Dynamic Karate", by Gichin's student Masatoshi Nakayama.  A more detailed list is available from the University of Houston's Shotokan Karate-Do.

Basic Terms:

Basic Stances:

Techniques:

Techniques

Below are the basic blocks and strikes of Shotokan, detailed in the books listed above.

Blocks:

Punches and Strikes:

Kicks:

Weapons:

Advancement

A student of Shotokan Karate first learns the Taekyoku and Heian kata. On-line videos of these and more advanced kata may be found at the Shotokan Martial Arts site.  North Austin Tae Kwon Do presents illustrations of 26 Shotokan katas.

Advancement is first measured in Kyu ranks, counting down.  After achieving all Kyu ranks achievment is received in Dan ranks.  The student is presented with a colored belt at each rank.  The actual colors seem to vary among Dojos.  Below are the colors we use.


Shotokan Ranks/Belts: