If you’re a parent, you’ve likely heard of the benefits of enrolling your child in a martial arts practice. In fact, you may even know other families who already do so. However, once you’ve decided to join them, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the variety of techniques being taught today. For example, what’s the difference between karate and taekwondo? Use the following guide to gain a better understanding of their differences, as well as which is best for your child.

In History

Karate is believed to have first started in Japan, on the island of Okinawa about half a century ago. Featuring both Chinese and Japanese influences, it was brought into practice when weapons were banned and citizens needed a form of combat to protect themselves. Taekwondo has its roots in Korea, all the way in 50 B.C.E., but its practice was quelled in the early 20th century during the Japanese occupation. This caused the original technique to branch off into many factions, and it wasn’t until 1955 that a modern form of taekwondo was created by combining them.

In Practice

In general, taekwondo prizes kicks, while karate technique emphasizes hand strikes, which can make it safer for small children. During competitions, equal points are received for kicks and punches in karate, while taekwondo offers more of a reward for kicks. While there are preset fighting sequences in both martial arts, they are called kata in karate and poomsae in Taekwondo. Ultimately, the movements and positions that make up these sequences differ in form between the two. 

If you’re interested in enrolling your child in a martial arts class, get in touch with Japan Karate-Do Cincinnati of West Chester, OH. Their main instructor, Hanshi Minobu Miki has been teaching this traditional Japanese technique for over 40 years, and as an 8th-degree black belt, he can train your child with expertise. For more information about karate class schedules, visit the website or call (513) 860-4386.