Karate-do

Karate is the art of unarmed self-defense. Karate-do is a Japanese phrase meaning kara—empty, te—hand, do—way, or the way of the empty hand.

Karate is a centuries old marvtial art, formally introduced in Japan by Master Gichin Funakoshi. Since the 1950s, karate has been practiced throughout the United States and other parts of the world. Karate is an excellent exercise, utilizing 90% of the body muscles. The mental aspects are as important as the physical. The main objective of karate training is development of character, although karate is also a practical and effective self-defense system and a very good form of physical fitness regimen especially for cardio vascular system.

 

How do I become a member of the SKA?

Joining the SKA requires filling out an application form and paying the appropriate fees. The SKA offers two kinds of membership: Group Membership, for those wishing to affiliate their dojo or karate group, and Individual Membership, for people interested in joining the SKA as an individual

 

When can I start?

Anyone interested can start at any time that is convenient for you. Training at our SKA dojo is ongoing.

Contrary to common belief, karate can be practice by boys and girls men and women of all ages. Children can begin as young as 5 years old. Training at SKA of Los Angeles and its chapter dojos are being supervised by well experienced and competent blackbelts and individualized instruction in small class settings. Equal emphasis is placed on the mastery of basics (ki form (kata), sparring (kumite) and self-defense techniques. Instruction is safe, professional and easy to understand.

 

What is Shotokan karate?

Our school follows the traditional Japan Karate Association (JKA) Shotokan style. Shotokan karate is one of the most widely practiced forms on the world today, and one of the most traditional. Introduced to Japan from Okinawa by Master Gichin Funakoshi, Shotokan puts heavy focus on kihon (basic techniques), kata (forms), and kumite (sparring) to develop a range of powerful and dynamic techniques. The designation “Shotokan” derives from “Shoto,” which was the pen name of Master Funakoshi used when writing poetry.

 

What is the SKA’s philosophy of karate?

To us, karate is a way of life based on Bushido. It is NOT a sport or a game won by points In true karate, the body, mind and spirit—the whole person—must be developed simultaneously. Through intense practice, the physical and mental aspects of karate can be brought together.

 

Can anyone practice karate?

Yes! The only real requirement is a disciplined commitment to work hard and train patiently. As long as that commitment is there, karate is for everyone—regardless of age, sex, or ethnic background.

 

Do I need to be in excellent physical shape to start karate?

Since karate will gradually improve your fitness, your starting point is less important than the effort you put into it along the way. Our traditional focus on the basics and on the correct form make it easy for beginners to train together with experienced individuals yet still progress at their own level of fitness and expertise. If you are less fit, your progress at the start will simply be more moderate; as your fitness improves, so will the pace at which you advance.

humility and courtesy upon which karate’s long-standing tradition is founded. And of course, you are expected to pay your membership dues and other fees.

 

What will involve in Training?

A typical karate practice session usually begins with a comprehensive warm-up, followed by the various training exercises. The exercises are divided up into three main categories: kihon (basic techniques), in which you learn the basic blocks, punches, kicks, stances, etc. of karate; kata (forms), in which you practice and physically remember the various kihon learned; and kumite (sparring), where your kihon and kata techniques are matched against a real opponent. As your skill level increases, so will the difficulty of the exercises. Of course, there will be times when you are taught theory, dojo etiquette and the more philosophical aspects of karate.

 

What are the benefits of karate training?

Karate has tremendous benefits for body, mind and spirit. Physically, karate is good for the heart, strengthens bones, builds muscle, creates resilience, develops hand-eye coordination, and makes the body less susceptible to sickness and injury. Mentally, karate helps develop patience, discipline and perseverance, understanding and open-mindedness, as well as concentration and focus. Spiritually, karate builds confidence, develops self-control and increases calmness and peace.

 

How long does it take to become a blackbelt?

It depends on you. Normally it will take 3 – 4 years of regular training. But some could get it in less than 3 years and some more than 4 year. But others never achieve it at all.

 

Do I have to wear a karate uniform?

Eventually, yes. To begin, you may wear something you can stretch in, such as a T-shirt and stretch pants. Uniforms (dogi) are available at the dojo.