What can Karate do for me?
The word Karate is formed from the Japanese words "Kara", meaning Empty, and "Te", meaning Hand, so Karate is literally the art of the empty hand.

Training in Karate can improve:

• Physical condition

• Co-ordination and agility

• Self defence skills

• Competition skills

• Leadership and team building skills

• Inner strength and calmness of character

• Self control

• Respect for others.

Of course, what you get out of Karate very much depends on what you are prepared to put in. The more effort you make, the greater the rewards will be.

What can I expect in a Karate class?
It's natural to feel a little nervous or apprehensive about joining any club, especially one that teaches Karate. But you'll find
that all of the Karate Ka (students) are helpful, friendly, and fun - after all, they were all in your position once.
Karate is as much about mental attitude as physical ability, and this means that respecting others is very important.
If you're prepared to give it a try, then you already deserve respect - and you'll get exactly that from us when you enter the dojo.

We cater for all ages and abilities, so when you first visit, you'll find Karate Ka from all levels, white belts to black belts and above - and of all ages. Don't be put off by the mix of abilities, the basics are all important, and the black belts are as happy to practice those as the more advanced moves. If you're prepared to watch, get involved, and learn, you'll have a lot of fun and meet some great people.

Do I have to join immediately?
No, you're welcome to come along and watch a class before you get involved. If after that you feel a little more adventurous, you can take part in up to four classes before you need to join. This is due to insurance conditions, so after your four classes as a non member, you'll need to join if you want to carry on, but those four classes
should be enough to tell you if you're smitten, or if Karate is not for you.

What will it cost?
Fees are payable monthly: and vary dependant upon which days you choose to train and the frequency. Please contact us to discuss pricing.

You are also required to pay an annual fee on joining. The licence and membership fee for junior members is £45 per year, senior members is £50.

Once you have registered, you will receive a licence and grading record book, for recording your personal successes and progression.

Clothing
There is no need to purchase your Gi (training uniform) from day one, a tee-shirt and track-suit bottoms will be fine, for the trial period of 4 weeks. Once you have joined you will need to purchase a Gi, which is available through Shinwa.

You will also require the following - essential when sparring:

• Fist mitts
• Shin Guards
• Gum Shield

Am I too old?
Not at all! you’re never too old to take up Karate.

Do I need to be fit?
Karate is physically demanding, so yes, you'll find it a lot easier if you are already reasonably fit. However, even if you're not that fit, you'll find the enjoyment of Karate will help motivate you to exercise - so fitness will come in time. The most important thing is that you give your best, as long as you do that, your best will keep on getting better and your fitness will improve massively.