Our emphasis is on the personal development of our members. As our club attracts adult professionals from a variety of backgrounds, we have a strong emphasis on safety and the complete development of the student, physically, intellectually, and socially.
Classes begin and end with a meditation period. The duration of a class is approximately one and a half hours. Although a uniform is required for students holding grades, beginners may wear clothes that are comfortable.
Each class begins with a warm-up that includes cardio conditioning, strength and core training, joint loosening exercises and training in basic techniques. Students are challenged in an environment that fosters continuous improvement. The class is designed to be appropriate for everyone. The second half of each class will cover one of the following topics:
Advanced Techniques
Prearranged Partner Drills
Forms
Sparring and Self-Defense
While our format is formal, the learning environment is enjoyable, team oriented and safe. We believe that thinking critically is key to developing as a student and encourage questions during discussion periods. We also invite select guest instructors regularly to provide a diverse learning experience. For those interested in the study of Okinawan weapons, we also teach bo, sai, tonfa, nunchaku, kama and tekko.
Students who train consistently should expect to commit approximately four months in order to prepare for their first belt grading. Students interested in attaining a black belt should expect to study karate for a minimum of five years intensely.
Our rates are competitive, and classes are taught by qualified black belts in a safe learning environment.
Basics / Kihon Waza
Basic techniques, including stances, strikes, kicks and blocks, in isolation and combination form the foundation of karate. Body movement, balance, focus, power, timing and coordination are necessary for the perfection of technique, which has its application in all aspects of training and application.
Forms / Kata
A form, or kata, is an integrated series of techniques that simulates combat. Performed individually by a student in order to understand the deeper aspects of the techniques, kata is an indispensable tool for all aspects of karate training. Kata itself is a repository of diverse techniques and its study reveals the depth of karate.
Partner Drills / Kihon Kumite
By working with a partner to apply karate techniques for specific situations, students are able to develop practical skills while working on broader aspects of martial arts such as timing, body positioning, and teamwork. There is nothing as dangerous as a technique that does not work making training with a partner essential to practical skill development.
Free Sparring / Jiyu Kumite
Sparring is a simulation of a real combat situation using karate techniques to defend against an aggressive attacker. There is minimal contact, and we have an exceptional record for safety. Still, these are combative techniques moving with power and speed and students must be aware that injuries may occur.