Jeet Kune Do was influenced by various martial arts styles, including:
* Wing Chun: Lee's initial training was in Wing Chun, which emphasizes speed, efficiency, and close-range combat.
* Boxing: Lee incorporated boxing techniques, particularly for footwork and punches.
* Western Boxing: Lee learned from Western boxers, incorporating their speed and power into his techniques.
* Judo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: He learned grappling techniques to counter takedowns.
* Kung Fu: Lee incorporated various Kung Fu styles, like Northern Shaolin and Tai Chi.
Jeet Kune Do is not a style in itself, but rather a philosophy of fighting that emphasizes:
* Adaptability: Lee believed that fighters should be able to adapt to any situation and opponent.
* No Style: He rejected the rigidity of traditional martial arts styles, encouraging students to develop their own techniques based on their strengths and weaknesses.
* Simplicity and Effectiveness: Lee focused on practical and efficient techniques, emphasizing speed, power, and fluidity.
* Self-Expression: He encouraged students to express themselves through their fighting style, rather than rigidly following a set of rules.
So, while Bruce Lee was not a "karate" practitioner in the traditional sense, his Jeet Kune Do was heavily influenced by martial arts, including karate, and incorporated techniques from various styles.