Shotokan Karate
Shotokan is a style of karate that originated from a synthesis of various martial arts, thanks to the efforts of Gichin Funakoshi (1868–1957) and his son Gigo (Yoshitaka) Funakoshi (1906–1945). Gichin Funakoshi, originally from Okinawa, is widely acknowledged for popularizing “karate do.” He achieved this by conducting a series of public demonstrations and fostering the establishment of karate clubs in universities, including Keio, Waseda, Hitotsubashi (Shodai), Takushoku, Chuo, Gakushuin, and Hosei.[2] Funakoshi’s influence extended to numerous students in university clubs and private dojos, who continued to propagate karate even after his passing in 1957.
Kalaripayattu
Kalaripayattu, also spelled as Kalarippayattu, stands as an ancient martial art deeply rooted in Kerala, a southern state of India. Today, it enjoys recognition and practice across the world, but its exact origins remain shrouded in uncertainty. Some argue that in its earliest form, Kalaripayattu served as a means for the region’s early inhabitants to hunt wild animals in the lush, mountainous terrain before evolving into a structured combat system, proficient in both offense and self-defense.
Mythological enthusiasts prefer to believe in the ancient origins of Kalaripayattu, attributing its introduction to Lord Parasurama, the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who, according to legend, reclaimed the land of Kerala from the Arabian Sea.
Zumba
Zumba is a spirited dance workout with its roots traced back to Colombia, where it was developed by the renowned fitness trainer Alberto “Beto” Perez during the 1990s, as documented in the June 2012 Journal of Sports Science & Medicine. Often characterized more as a dance party than a traditional workout, Zumba encourages participants to groove to the rhythm of the music rather than adhering strictly to choreography. Notably, Zumba is a registered trademark referring to classes, programs, and services exclusively offered by the brand Zumba Fitness, LLC. This means that only individuals licensed by the company are authorized to conduct Zumba classes. Instructors are required to undergo training provided by the company to earn their Zumba teaching license. Despite its party-like atmosphere, Zumba remains a bona fide workout, primarily centered on cardiovascular activity, aimed at enhancing endurance and calorie burning,” according to Carolee Poythress.