Need to Know Karate serves as a comprehensive introductory guide to the sport, giving the reader basic karate theory and moves, as well as safety guidelines, etiquette and advice on finding a club. Anyone with the most basic level of fitness can try karate, and this book provides the information to understand and learn this fascinating art form. Starting with a brief history of martial arts, and moving into an explanation of the grading system, dojo culture, and a guide to the various karate styles, this book then leads you onto warm-up and stretching routines. The basics of karate performance - stance, balance and movement - are then described, including blocking moves and posturing. Once defensive skills have been learnt it is time to move onto punches and kicks. Lastly, the various movements are put together as basic katas, or sequences of moves. Karate for fitness, for fun, or self defence is equally enjoyable for all ages and both genders.