WHAT IS KARATE?

Karate, meaning Empty Hand, was developed over 400 years ago in Okinawa for the sole purpose of self-preservation.  Since then, because of its physical and psychological benefits, it has become a way of life to as many Occidentals as to Orientals.

WHAT IS TRADITIONAL KARATE?

Traditional Karate is a method of teaching that emphasizes proficiency in the kata (formal exercise) as a foundation on which to build potential skills.

HOW DOES IT DIFFER FROM SPORT KARATE?

Sport Karate, like other sports, is governed by a set of rules, with emphasis on winning, or defeating your opponent.  Traditional Karate emphasizes the spiritual, mental, and physical growth of the individual.  Self-control and the perfection of ones character overcome the attitude of winning, or defeating an opponent.

WHAT IS THE PHILOSOPHY OF TRADITIONAL KARATE?

Traditional Karate is an art.  Art is but a means of achieving a higher form of life.  The philosophy of Karate is to be so strong at fighting that fighting becomes unnecessary.  In training, the practice of technique is to develop self-control.

ARE ALL STYLES OF KARATE THE SAME?

Basically yes, in that they all share the same roots, which follow a path from India, to China, to Okinawa, then to the Western World.  However, the difference is in the emphasis on training.  Some emphasize the use of hand or legs.  Some have an outward appearance of softness, while others appear hard.  However, every martial art offers its students the opportunity for growth.

WHAT STYLE WILL BE TAUGHT IN THIS CLASS?

The style taught in this class is Shorin-Ryu Matsumura Orthodox.  It is one of the many Shorin-Ryu styles, which originated in Okinawa but follow the Matsumura lineage.

IS ATHLETIC ABILITY NEEDED TO BECOME PROFICIENT?

No.  In fact, Karate is ideal for those who are not athletically inclined.  Karate training takes into consideration the physical make-up of each student.  The method of training is devised so everyone can progress and develop within his/her own limitations. 

WHAT BENEFITS CAN WE DERIVE FROM KARATE?

Besides developing physical and psychological fitness, we also learn self-discipline, perseverance, respect, and self-defense.  Most important, we develop awareness of things around us.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO BECOME PROFICIENT?

That depends on the individual and the time he/she devotes to practice.  Students do not compete with each other for promotions--they compete with themselves.  The goal is to constantly strive for self-improvement.  All ranks are earned.

WHAT ABOUT THE RANK AND GRADE SYSTEM?

Students are categorized from 7^th to 1^st Kyu (grade) according to proficiency.  The level of Kyu is indicated by belt colors: white, yellow, green and brown.  After 1^st Kyu comes 1^st Dan (rank), which is black belt.  Proficiency in performance, and understanding of each kata, are used as measures for advancement to higher grades or belt rankings.  Additionally, all students ages 6 through 16 are required to maintain an above average report card in school to be considered for advancement.