How many different styles of karate are there? There are more than seventy different schools of karatedo; some schools prefer to designate their teaching karate-jutsu. Each style places different emphasis on certain aspects of the art so that each style is unique to itself. The style or ryu of Karate we are studying is Shorinjiryu Kentokukan Karatedo. Shorinjiryu - The Japanese words for Shaolin Temple Style. Kentokukan - The school for the development of virtue and morals through the study of karatedo. Karatedo - The way to self-perfection through the practice of techniques of emptiness. What is a "dojo"? Translated literally into English, dojo means a "place of the way," and thus refers to a place (jo) for training in the way (do) of karatedo. The dojo can be likened to the classroom or workroom of karatedo: it is not a playground, but rather places for correcting oneself in mind, body, and spirit. For this reason there should be an atmosphere of serious application, as each student is ultimately aiming to improve him or herself, and to support his or her partners in their efforts to do the same. Of course, to achieve individual and mutual improvement, the students must enjoy themselves, and so the atmosphere should be serious but relaxed. True heath requires one to be healthy in many ways: physically, mentally, spiritually, and socially. In the dojo, therefore, we must think not only of ourselves, but also our instructors, partners, and all others we come into contact with in our lives. What are the requirements to become a black belt? The holder of a Black Belt in Shorinjiryu Kentokukan Karatedo has demonstrated that he or she has qualified to wear the black belt through his or her persistence of practice, manners, ability and general decorum. The belt ranking in Shorinjiryu Kentokukan Karate is: White, Yellow, Orange, 1st level Green, 2nd level Green, 1st level Brown, 2nd level Brown then Black belt (there are 10 degrees of black belt.) Each different level of coloured belt represents a person's development along the precepts of karate. One usually reaches, with persistent practice and attendance, the level of Black Belt within 5 years or less. The Black Belt holder denotes that the wearer has qualified to learn and acquire the mental and philosophical rational behind Karatedo. What training advise is suggested? Avoid both a full stomach and a completely empty stomach before practice. Very light food, such as a piece of fruit or juice and toast, should be sufficient about 30 to 45 minutes before a full workout. When you practice with a partner, you must concentrate 100% on executing your technique with control. There is no reason why practice in the art of karatedo has to be dangerous. You and your partner must trust each other to control techniques and respect each other's safety. The essence of karatedo includes the development of concentration and self discipline so that you can apply these mental qualities to other areas of your daily life, whether at work, in school, or at home with your family. Therefore, you must make a conscious effort to develop your ability to concentrate and to practice the concept of self-discipline. In group practice and warm-ups, do not compete against others in terms of progress or numbers. Rather, compete against yourself. The emphasis should be placed on the development of your own mental and physical improvement in relation to your own potential. Remember: you gain as much as you put forth. If you are to follow Karatedo as a Martial Art and not as a Sport, it is imperative that you practice regularly and patiently. To assist in self-study, it will be particularly helpful if you can find a full-length mirror to correct your posture and technique (though this is not a must). Whatever method you use, to master the material will require willpower and determination to produce a positive result. The old cliché still applies "Where there's a will, there's a way". Finally, please remember that there is no "easy" way to the attainment of techniques in the art of Karatedo, although there is certainly a "correct" way. Consistent step by step practice is the shortest and most effective way to the true proficiency in the art of Karatedo. Why take karate? If you want to take up Karate it’s essential to join a reputable school that can meets all of your needs. Ask about qualifications, certification and experience of the Instructor and the Assistance Instructors. The martial art of Karate is practiced for a variety of reasons. Karate can help develop confidence, self-esteem, discipline and self-defense. For some people it provides a chance to interact with others and develop social skills. The best way to begin is to pay a visit to one of our Training Centers during regular class times or to make an appointment to speak with the Sensei. We offer a trial program where you’re able try one or two classes before you need to decided if this is what you expected and get some actual hands on experience. Your progress is an ongoing process. Each person will progress at his or her own individual capability. What is meant by "dojo etiquette"? Dojo (training hall) etiquette is of great importance. It can be simply defined as Dojo manners or how one is expected to behave in the Dojo. Some new students have a difficult time adjusting to Dojo etiquette. When one joins Shorinjiryu Kentokukan Karatedo, he or she is expected to follow the rules very strictly. If the new student cannot follow dojo etiquette, he or she will never be able to lead properly in the future. Here are some of the responsibilities of a Karatedoka (student of karatedo): On entering, the Dojo salutation rituals must be performed: Entering the Dojo - A formal standing bow, towards Shomen (the front), clap your hands twice, call out your first name - announcing your presence - and in Japanese say "Kimashita Onegaishimasu". ("I have arrived, may I practice with you"). On exiting, the Dojo salutation rituals must be performed: Exiting the Dojo - Clap your hands twice, call out your first name - announcing that you are leaving - and in Japanese say: "Karemasu Arigato Gosaimashita" ("I am leaving, thank you, very much") followed by a formal standing bow towards Shomen. The lowest ranking students are expected to take care of the Dojo. They are required to sweep, dust and perform all cleaning duties before every class, as well as the cleaning and repairing of all karate equipment. All mudansha (below black belt) are to address yudansha (Black Belt level) in the Dojo as "Sempai" (senior). All Karatedoka (students) must attend to personal grooming habits such as: keeping your person clean and your finger and toe nails trimmed. Karate gi (uniform) and obi (belt - of earned rank) must be kept clean and in good repair. If a T-shirt is worn under the gi, it must be white. All jewellery, watches, etc. is to be removed before practising. Street shoes and hats are not to be worn in the Dojo. All karatedoka will not use foul language, eat, smoke or spit in the Dojo. In group practice, no matter HOW informal it may be, you are expected to show respect to your instructor and your fellow students. Of course, this attitude of respect must be spontaneous and sincere rather than artificial and awkward. All junior ranking belts are to respect and follow any direction given and are to assist senior belts as the need arises without having to be urged or pushed. Any student showing disrespect for the Sensei (teacher) or an instructor appointed by the Sensei will be reprimanded and will be directed to leave the class. This includes any student who is continually being reminded to observe any of the above rules. Who can practice karate? ANYONE. Men, women, children, regardless of age or physical condition can practice karate. The usual age is from 6 years and beyond; it depends on what the individual is seeking from karate. |
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