Preparing for karate

We realise that looking for the right karate club can be a daunting decision. We promote ourselves as the friendly karate club so when you arrive at the dojo (training hall) you will be met by one of our senior instructors who will explain the format of the lesson and ask you a couple of questions to make sure that we are aware of any health issues such as asthma.

What should I wear?

Tracksuit bottoms and a T-shirt. No socks or shoes during the lesson. Experienced students will be wearing a karate-Gi (white karate suit).  The lesson begins with a warm-up consisting of some light jogging, aerobic exercises and stretching. New students should only do as much as you feel comfortable with. Karate is for all ages, there are no special fitness requirements and no upper age limit.



Lesson Format

The formal start of the lesson usually begins with a series of basic moves (kihons). They vary according to what colour belt you are. They will be demonstrated to you.

Formal moves are followed with combination moves (Renkei Waza) and then usually Kata. Kata are the basis of karate: a series of pre-arranged moves. In essence you are having a fight against imaginary opponents. If this is your first lesson you will just watch this part.



Next there are techniques practiced with a partner (pair techniques Yakusoku Gumite). Someone more senior will take you through a series of attacks and blocks. At the end of the lesson there may be free fighting (Jiyu Gumite), but as a beginner you won't participate until you pass your first grading. The lesson finishes with warm-down stretching exercises.



If you are turning up with the expectation of doing loads of flying head kicks you may be disappointed. The emphasis is on gradual self-improvement and progress as learning Karate is associated  with encouraging self-discipline and concentration.

Your first lesson is free and hopefully you will find the lesson rewarding and although you may feel tired you should have a sense of satisfaction.  

The Belt Colour System Explained

The belt system was designed to mark a student’s progress through the karate grades :

8th Kyu - Yellow belt

7th Kyu - Orange belt

6th Kyu - Green belt

5th Kyu - Blue belt

4th Kyu - Purple belt

3rd Kyu - Brown belt

2nd Kyu - Brown belt

1st Kyu - Brown belt

1st Dan to the 8th Dan - Black belt grades