Can I do karate? I’m not very athletic!
Karate is learned at your own pace. As you go along, you will become more flexible and find muscles you never knew existed. It is normal to be a little bit sore after your first couple of lessons but stretching will help you through this. The important point in Karate is that you keep a positive attitude to training and give 100% every time. Student strength, speed, stamina will differ but as long as you do your best, improvement will follow.
Do I need a karate uniform?
Your uniform is called a Karate-Gi. A t-shirt and lose shorts are fine for your first couple of lessons. If you do decide to continue learning karate, you will need to get a Gi. Prices and type usually vary depending on material used, Form/Fighting/all around type training. Your instructor can help you decide.
Am I too old or too young to learn karate?
We currently advise to start at 6 and there is no limit after that to how old you are. Many parents start training with their kids.
It should be noted that the Dojo does not currently have separate lessons for children/adult, beginners and advanced. However, Senior students will always be available to take on a small group for dedicated training.
How long does it take to get to black belt?
That depends on your commitment to learning, your understanding of what is required and how many lessons you go too. Generally it takes somewhere between 3 to 5 years and be a minimum of 12 years old.
Why are Japanese words used in your lessons?
Being a Japanese Martial Art, Karate techniques use Japanese language. Your instructor will help with the vocabulary. As the student progresses throughout the ranks, more Japanese words are used in class.
What is the saying at the end of the lesson?
This is called the Dojo Kun. This represents a set of rules / ideals that every karate practitioner should follow, inside and outside the Dojo. As a beginner you only need to learn the English version, but as you go further you will need to learn the Japanese version.
| Hitotsu! Jinkaku kansei ni tsutomuru koto! | Seek Perfection of Character! |
| Hitotsu! Makoto no michi o mamoru koto! | Be Faithful! |
| Hitotsu! Doryoku no seishin o yashinau koto! | Endeavor! |
| Hitotsu! Reigi o omonzuru koto! | Respect Others! |
| Hitotsu! Kekki no yuu o imashimuru koto! | Refrain from Violent Behavior! |
Do I have to fight anyone or will I get hurt?
No, not at all. You do not need to go in tournaments and we do not work on a full contact basis.
Can I go in tournaments?
If you wish to go in tournaments, we will support you in doing so. At no stage will you be expected to go.
When will I be ready to use karate if I have too?
If you have to use karate to defend yourself, you will be able to use what you have learnt straight away. In your first few lessons you will be taught how to punch, block and kick with the idea of stopping your attacker enough to get away.
JKA Karate follows the path of Bushido – Training the Body and Mind as one to the point where a karate student obtains ultimate self-control.
How many belts are there and what order do they go in?
There are 10 Kyu grade (beginners) and 10 Dan grade (Senior). Kyu grade examinations are usually held every 3 months, depending on the student age and attendance. Junior Kyu grades (age 14 and below) will use the “Kari” system (also called temporarily) as grading level to promote progression and encouragement.
| Rank | Colour |
| 10th Kyu | White with Black Tip |
| 9th Kyu | Yellow with White Band |
| 8th Kyu | Yellow |
| 7th Kyu | Orange |
| 6th Kyu | Green |
| 5th Kyu | Blue |
| 4th Kyu | Purple |
| 3rd Kyu | Brown |
| 2nd Kyu | Brown |
| 1st Kyu | Brown |
| Shodan (1st Dan) and above | Black |