TIPS FOR BEGINNERS

All of our classes follow a set structure to which students follow, and a Shotokan karate lesson consists of three parts;

• Basics - the practice of basic techniques- punching, kicking, blocking and stances. Your knowledge of this will continually increase over time and as you move up the grading system.

• Kata - A series of set moves in a specific shape/form. Each grade has a specific kata which is an integral part of the grading system.

• Kumite - Practising with a partner. For lower grades this will be simple and rehearsed, and as a student becomes more experiences free sparring is gradually introduced. Basic self-defence will also be incorporated for all grades.

HOW A CLASS STARTS AND FINISHES

At the start of every lesson, students should form multiple lines facing the instructor, with the highest grade standing on the right-hand side, and the lowest grade on the left.

1. The instructor will stand in front of the class with their back to students, and the highest grade in the class will announce “shomen-Ni-Rei”- everyone bows (feet together with hands by side)

2. The instructor turns around to face the class; the highest grade announces “Sensei-Ni-Rei”. Everyone bows saying “oss” at the same time.

3. The highest grade announces “Otagai-Ni-Rei”. Everyone bows saying “oss” at the same time.

The lesson will finish in the same way, however, before the first bow the highest grade or instructor will call out the “Dojo Code” which all students will repeat.

DOJO ETIQUETTE

Bow when entering and leaving the dojo
Address any instructor as “Sensei” whilst in the dojo
“Oss” is a sign of respect and is generally used in Karate particularly in the following situations;
a) Upon receiving any advice or instruction from the instructor the student normally answers “oss”
b) When bowing to a partner; and
c) In any other appropriate situation ( for example during classes)
Nobody may leave the class without first obtaining permission from the instructor before the class begins.
Any student arriving late must take up a kneeling position at the front of the Dojo and await permission from the instructor before joining the class. On receiving permission, bow and then join the class.
Gi’s (karate suits) must be kept clean and in good condition.
Fingers and toenails must be kept short and clean.
Jewellery must not be worn during training. If you cannot remove a ring then wrap tape around it.
Students must not use their skills in any offensive way outside the Dojo.
Students should attempt to train twice a week, plus practise at home.