Karatedo means "empty hand way" (also synonymous to budo - the way of the warrior)

Karateka means "one who practices Karatedo".

In Zen philosophy, "empty" connotes to render ones self by achieving a state of psychological awareness without the distraction of emotions, such as fear, anxiety or anger.

The aim of karatedo is to develop a mind that is tranquil yet flowing, not rigid but receptive to whatever confronts it. The objective is to develop a mind able to react intuitively and fearlessly without hesitation to whatever the situation demands.

Shotokan Karate is a style of karate devised by Gichin Funakoshi. Shotokan is recognizable by its linear, direct punching, blocking, and kicking from low stances. Shotokan emphasizes correct posture, correct joint alignment, and formality of basic technique above all else.