Explosive Power - This is the ability to deliver a relatively strong force at a very fast rate. There is no point having a punch/kick as strong as an ox, if it travels so slowly anyone can simply step out of the way. At the same time, there is no point being lightning fast if there is no force behind the strike when it connects. Explosive power in your arms give you a fast and strong punch, while in your legs give you fast and strong kicks, and allows you to move, dodge and weave your body quickly and decisively.

Power Endurance - this is when you have explosive power, and can use it time and time again over a prolonged period of time. eg the last move of your Kata is just as strong/quick as the first move...or, at the end of your grading (when you do your Kumite) you are just as fast and strong as the start.

Acceleration/Deceleration - Notice that i have not put "speed". In the tiny fractions of a second involved in a punch/kick, it is very unlikley someone will be able to reach their maximum speed...so trying to improve that when it will rarley be used is a waste. It is better to be able to accelerate from a standing start without tipping off your opponent. Decceleration is important in your Agility. If you want to change direction suddenly, you need to be able to stop going one way, and start going in the other. There you have very fast decceleration followed by acceleration, all done so fast your opponent cant see what is happening!

Agility - this is the ability to move body parts, or the whole body in fast, controlled ways. This is linked to Acceleration/Decceleration and also Power Endurance. In Karate, footwork is very important to Agility...you should be able to move quickly and desisively in all directions for attack and defence. But importantly, you should be sure on your feet so if/when it all goes wrong, you can get out of trouble quickly, but still be in a position to counter attack.

Flexability - The ability to move your joints safley through a great range. This can help prevent injury if you ever "over-reach" yourself...having a greater range of movement means you have a bigger "safe-zone". It is important though to have control over your flexability. There is little point being able to kick Jodan, if because of lack of control/strength, you either miss the target or it is totally ineffective.