KARATE

Our system is based on the Shotokan system - a traditional Japanese martial art.   Covering kihon (basics), kumite (sparring) and kata (patterns or forms) is all part of the tradition.   Classes are taught using Japanese terminology which the student soon adapts to although English is also used, especially for beginners.

Karate is of Okinawan origin and is the result of an amalgamation of ancient Ryukyu fighting systems with Chinese martial arts.  The original name for karate was ‘Tode’, ‘Tang Hand’ or ’Chinese Hand’, but this was changed to ‘Karate’ or ‘Empty Hand’.  It is basically a martial art which comprises punching, striking (with open hand, elbows knees etc), blocking and kicking.  It can also incorporate locks, restraint, takedowns, throws and pressure points especially when you look at the applications (bunkai) of the kata (patterns).

Karate students practice some hard physical training in order to become fit and flexible as it is with these attributes that assailants can be beaten.  Karate also helps build a strong character and respect and so can be extremely beneficial for mental development as well as the physical aspects.

Although the history of karate can be traced back hundreds of years, modern day karate, and in particular Shotokan Karate, has its foundation with Gichin Funakoshi (1868 - 1957) who is accepted as being the father of karate as we know today.

Beginners are always welcome in our classes and if you are unsure please either bring a friend along to train with or just sit and watch a class.

CLASS TIMES - All Karate classes are on Mondays and Wednesdays

Junior karate (beginners - white belts) - 4.30pm to 5.05pm

Junior Karate (intermediate - yellow, orange and green belts) - 5.15pm to 5.55pm

Junior Karate (advanced - purple belt and above) - 6.05pm to 6.50pm

Adult Karate (ages 13 and over) - 7.00pm to 8.15pm

Adult black and brown belts - 8.15pm to 8.30pm

We have also recently started some Karate4Kids classes on a Tuesday and Thursday starting at 4.00pm to 4.25pm.  These classes are designed for 6 and 7 years of age as an introduction to the more advanced traditional classes above.