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What is karate?
- Karate is a system of self-defence using techniques such as blocking, kicking, punching, striking, grappling and seizing. Some people believe karate is just about punching and kicking. This is simply not true.
What do we do?
- Our emphasis is on self-defence rather than competition. Our focus is on improving your ability to defend yourself if attacked. And if you're interested in competing we can train for that too.
Who is it for?
- Anyone can learn karate! While many people see karate as nothing more than a fighting art, learning fighting techniques is only one part of our training. We also work on stamina, endurance and body toning as well as the mental requirements of self discipline and mental toughness, and each person works to their own abilities. Exercise causes the body to release endorphins which give a sense of well-being and relieves stress and aggression - you get a natural "high". This benefits everyone regardless of age or gender.
Do I need to be fit?
- Fitness is an important aspect of Karate. Many people begin training to improve their fitness. We don't expect you to be fit enough to run a marathon but a moderate level of fitness will improve quality of life many times over. Your fitness should be a personal goal because everyone is different. You can work with your instructor to develop a personal fitness program if you choose.
What if I have an existing injury?
- We teach people of all ages. There are few individuals who haven't suffered from injury, joint stiffness or pains at some stage in their adult life. As long as your instructor is aware of a specific injury or weakness your training will be adapted to avoid stress on that particular area, and you will not be forced to do anything which you know may aggravate an injury. Common sense is the key!
Will I enjoy karate?
- That's a difficult question to answer. The best way to find out is to try it. At Kitsunekan Karate we offer the first week free plus a starter package so you can find out whether you like it without spending a lot of money.
Gradings
- It takes up to 4 years for a beginner to go from white belt to Black belt. Like many traditional martial arts we have a belt system to recognise the skills and abilities of our students. This also allows students to set goals and see their own progress.
What if I have trained elsewhere?
- If you have been graded in another karate club we won't make you start all over again. Your instructor will discuss your previous experience with you.
I feel nervous about asking questions of a Black Belt
- At Kitsunekan our instructors are genuine Black Belts who strive to be what people expect a Black Belt to be. We value courtesy, self-control and honesty. If you have a question we will do our best to answer it. If you ever find this to not be the case then you should go elsewhere.
When is the best time to start?
- Beginners are always welcome. Because each lesson operates at different levels it caters for whoever is there and you don't have to wait for a beginner class to start.
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