Karate is a form of unarmed combat and is one of the many forms of martial arts. Other martial arts include Judo, Ninjitsu, and Tae Kwon Do. Karate instructors teach, train and coach karate from beginners to the highest level, black belt. This involves developing students' physical, mental and spiritual potential through a number of co-ordinated defensive and attacking moves; using the hands and the forearms for defence and the fist and feet for attacking.

It is important for the karate instructor to have successfully completed all levels of karate and in some cases, completed an accredited coaching program or course. It is also important for a karate instructor to have a high level of fitness, self discipline, concentration and perseverance as well as commitment.