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Weekly Class Schedule

Getting Started

Maybe you’ve always wanted to try karate. Or you used to train years ago, and are thinking about starting again. Whatever your circumstances, we would love to have you come train with us!

Because our dojo is beginner- and family-friendly, we have children and adult beginners.  All you need to start is to come by the dojo about ten minutes before class starts, and we will get you on the floor and training!

Calendar

May 2023

MonTueWedThuFriSatSun
1
  • Adult Class All Levels
  • Beginner Kata (Heian 1-3)
  • Advanced Class
2
  • Mixed Color Belt Class
3
  • Adult Class All Levels
  • Color Belt Class
  • Advanced Class
4
  • Color Belt Class
5
  • Adult Class All Levels
  • Advanced Class
6
  • Kata Class
  • Advanced Kata
7
8
  • Adult Class All Levels
  • Beginner Kata (Heian 1-3)
  • Advanced Class
9
  • Mixed Color Belt Class
10
  • Adult Class All Levels
  • Color Belt Class
11
  • Color Belt Class
12
  • Adult Class All Levels
  • Advanced Class
13
  • Kata Class
  • Advanced Kata
14
15
  • Adult Class All Levels
  • Beginner Kata (Heian 1-3)
  • Advanced Class
16
  • Mixed Color Belt Class
17
  • Adult Class All Levels
  • Color Belt Class
  • Kyu Exam
18
  • Color Belt Class
19
  • Adult Class All Levels
  • Advanced Class
20
  • Kata Class
  • Advanced Kata
21
22
  • Adult Class All Levels
  • Beginner Kata (Heian 1-3)
  • Advanced Class
23
  • Mixed Color Belt Class
24
  • Adult Class All Levels
  • Color Belt Class
  • Advanced Class
25
  • Color Belt Class
26
  • Adult Class All Levels
  • Advanced Class
27
  • Kata Class
  • Advanced Kata
28
29
  • Dojo Closed for Memorial Day
30
  • Mixed Color Belt Class
31
  • Adult Class All Levels
  • Color Belt Class
  • Advanced Class

About the classes

Kumite 組手

Kumite is the Japanese word for sparring.  In kumite training we work on applying the techniques of punching, blocking, kicking, and striking with partners.  The key points in kumite are to develop timing, distance, and strategy.

We have many levels of kumite training, from very basic to highly advanced.  Our most basic level of sparring is gohon kumite, or five step sparring.  Each attack consists of five-steps forward with punching or kicking techniques. The blocking side steps backward blocking each of the techniques, and after the fifth block executes a counter-attack.  We also have three-step and one-step versions of this training.  In all cases, the technique used for the attack, and the location of the attack are known in advance, and each person begins from a stationary position.

At more advanced levels attackers and defenders have more freedom to move before and during the attack.  In jiyu-ippon kumite or semi-free sparring the technique and target are still known to both sides, but at the most advanced level all of these known elements are removed.  This is called jyu kumite, or free sparing.  In jiyu kumite either side may initiate any attack at any time and with any sequence. Strategy becomes a major focus of the training.

Kihon 基本

Kihon is the Japanese word for basics.  In kihon training we work to develop correct stance, posture, path of movement for karate techniques, and body action. This allows us to learn how to create maximum power by using our body as a single unit.  Stances are our foundation.  By developing strong stances we create connection to the ground beneath us.

Correct posture allows the upper body to be connected to the lower body, and that allows us to use the body as a single unit.  We learn to use our body to create power through vibration, rotation, and thrusting actions. The correct path of the technique, whether punching, blocking, kicking, or striking, means that we can capture the power created through vibration, rotation or thrusting actions and deliver that power through the technique to our target.

Kata 形 or 型

Kata is the Japanese word for form.  In kata training we learn how to move in multiple directions against imaginary opponents. Kata teaches us fluidity from technique to technique.

Kata is similar to a dance sequence in that we practice the same steps over and over again. Each movement in kata is an application of techniques against imaginary opponents.

We have 25 katas that range from very basic to highly advanced.  Each kata is designed to help develop specific aspects of our training.  The more basic katas (called the heian katas) develop each of the 3 basic stances in karate, and progressively introduce more advanced techniques that challenge the student to maintain the more basic positions and movements with more demanding techniques.

CLASSES

Frequently Asked Questions


Which is the best class for an adult beginner?

Adult beginners are welcome at all 6-6:45pm classes, although the Saturday morning kata class requires that you know at least the first kata (taikiyoku shodan). The best class for beginners is the 6pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday class, since it focuses on the basics and breaks the class into groups according to level.


I have experience in Karate, can I join all classes?

In general, Brown and Black belts are welcome at any class, but white through purple belts should attend the 6-6:45pm classes. The 7-7:45pm classes on Mondays and Wednesdays, and 6-7pm on Fridays are appropriate for advanced colored belt and Black belt levels.


Which is the best class for a young beginner?

Our 6-6:45pm classes are specifically designed for youth to begin learning our Traditional Japanese martial art. We typically have 2-3 instructors present for each of these classes so that we can offer more individualized teaching based on rank and age.


How do I know if my child will like Karate?

Bring your child in for a free first class, without obligation. Have your child wear loose clothing so they can stretch and move easily. After class you can speak to the instructors about your child’s readiness to train.