KARATE FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is karate-do?
Karate is a weaponless means of self-defense, which consists
of techniques of blocking or thwarting an attack and punching,
striking, or kicking.
What do the words "Karate-do" mean?
The word "Karate" is actually a contraction of 2
Japanese words, "kara" and "te." "Kara"
means "empty" and "te" means "hands."
"Do" (pronounced like "bread dough") means
"way ." So, Karate-do literally means "the
way of the empty hand." What type of karate
do we teach?
We teach the Shotokan style of karate, which is the authentic,
original karate from Japan. Its techniques are self-defense
based, and their effectiveness comes from body control, rhythm,
timing, and agility. We emphasize building strong body mechanics
and motion. We blend in Chinese Kenpo self defense techniques
and Jeet Kune Do concepts to add a modern approach to our
personal safety classes. What kinds of weapons to
we teach?
The weapon system we teach is the Filipino art of Kali or
stick fighting and knife techniques. What kinds of
seminar to you teach?
We provide Women’s Personal Safety, Personal Safety
against a Weapon, Wellness and Stress Reduction seminars.
Where did the name of the style "Shotokan" come
from?
"Shoto" was the pen name of the founder of the
style, Gichin Funakoshi. Funakoshi's students named his
first dojo, or training hall, the "Shotokan" or
"Hall of Shoto."
What is the goal of karate?
The most important goals of karate are to strengthen people
mentally and physically through strong, disciplined training,
so that better harmony among people is realized. The ultimate
goal is seeking perfection of character. Can anyone
learn karate?
Women, men, and children aged 7 or older who can safely
engage in moderate physical activity can learn karate. You
are never too old to begin karate training.
How long does it take to learn karate?
You can learn a great deal in even one day. However, there
is really no limit in the learning and mastery of karate techniques.
The more you practice, the more you will improve. In classes,
karate students are taught the most basic techniques during
the first three to four months. After this introduction, they
are separated into different classes for more advanced training.
How long does it take to get a black belt?
First-degree black belt in karate is awarded to those who
have mastered the basic techniques. With regular, consistent
practice, students generally attain the rank of first-degree
black belt in two to five years, with three years being average.
How long will it take before I can learn to defend
myself on the street?
Each person is different, physically and mentally, so it is
difficult to predict how fast or slow they will progress.
A person can learn a great deal about self-defense in even
one lesson, but it usually takes from six months to one year
to be prepared for a common self-defense situation.
Will karate help me get into shape?
YES! In our classes, adults, teens and children not only learn
self-defense, awareness, and self-control, but they also attain
high fitness levels from the vigorous training. They increase
their fitness and stamina. Our exercises tone muscles and
burn fat. At the same time, students are allowed to progress
at a rate that is most comfortable for them. How
do I choose a karate school that's right for me?
We encourage you to visit other schools before joining ours.
Take a close look at the facility and the personality of the
instructor. Very carefully observe the atmosphere created
by the instructor because this is where the attitude of karate
is taught. Beware of schools that want you to sign a contract.
Will karate benefit my child?
Karate produces lifelong commitments to health and personal
integrity. We teach respect for self and others. Observe the
eagerness of our children as the respectfully approach the
practice floor and instructor to join their friends in disciplined
and meaningful learning. Parents tell our instructors of improvements
in their children's attitudes toward responsibilities at home
and school work. Karate provides the tools for strengthening
both the mind and the body. We teach children to exercise
their self-control and be responsible young adults. This is
a treasure that they carry on in life. Do I have to
wear a karate uniform (gi)?
Yes. The gi allows for maximum movement and helps contribute
to the serious tone of the class. How do I get colored
belts?
There are eight rankings below black belt represented by the
colors; yellow, orange, green, purple, and brown. At least
4 months of regular training is required for each of these
rankings. Your instructor will tell you when you are ready
for ranking, and an examination fee is charged.
How can I get more information about karate?
We recommend two books:
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