Class instruction consists of techniques being taught and practiced in the form of 'line drills' and 'stationery stance'. After a routine of basics, methods of application are taught with traditional form and series.
Each class session will have a period of self-defense scenarios with technique of escape, counter or control being taught in relation to the supposed attack. Students will learn about weaknesses and strengths inherent to the human body. Techniques focus on determined outcomes.
In last 15 to 20 minutes of class, students who are already versed in the art of 'sparring', will put on their protective gear and rotate with one another in exchanging sport 'light contact' technique.
Depending of the class session, certain topics will deem more attention in time and the student will work towards a certain goal. This goal, of course, is rank promotion. Each rank has a minimal requirement for testing. The student will be given a print out with explanation as to what is required of their next rank.
Our class session begins with a brief meditation followed by formal 'bowing in'. A short period of warm-ups, stretching and conditioning exercises will prepare all students for what will be covered in the class instruction.
The student will be given an introduction manual that will guide him/her in all topics taught. Students will have the opportunity to learn about the culture, history and arts of the Okinawan and Japanese people. Times have certainly changed and so has today's cultures in many countries, but our focus is on the times during which karate and martial arts in general were developing. These cultural traditions are still practiced in the dojo to this day. The student learns to display respect to fellow karate-ka and sensei as well as to the dojo. As the student progresses, he/she will learn the Nihongo (Japanese terms) associated with technique, commands, actions and methods. The student is expected to purchase an approved gi (uniform) and will learn how to wear and care for it. After a student is introduced to sparring, he/she is expected to have protective sparring gear for hands, feet and head. During the course of regular class instruction, a student is expected to wear the necessary safety equipment to prevent personal injury. This would include cup and supporter for males and protective sports bra for females. Single fit mouthpieces can be purchased at anytime and are required for sparring.
Our Karate is Okinawan heritage and has been regarded to be one of the most comprehensive styles being taught today. Although karate is viewed as a percussive art with punches, strikes, blocks and kicks out of various stances, there is so much more hidden therein. Technique that involves joint locks, sweeps, reaps, takedowns, pressure methods, armbars, throws and grappling in general are an intrinsic part of true karate. The student really begins to appreciate the art when these applications are revealed in their various practices.
The art of traditional weapons are also taught within the class curriculum. Kobudo is the term associated with these Okinawan/Japanese weapons of many years usage. Designated rank is also promoted upon excelling in kobudo. Other arts of self-defense that are part of the instructors knowledge base will be taught from time to time as augmentation to the overall art of self-defense and self preservation. These arts include but are not limited to Filipino art of Arnis, Chinese arts of Tai Chi Chuan, Wing Chun and Japanese arts of Iaido, Judo, JuiJutsu and Aikido.
Our classes will end as they started with a brief period of meditation and a formal 'bowing out' (seiza-rei). A student will gain much knowledge and capability from even a short period of time in training. Being able to memorize and organize their knowledge will be an acquired skill. Discipline comes from knowing that each student is responsible for their part in the class setting. Training can be strenuous at times, but the reward is great... Being able to be capable, having the "I can do this!" attitude and possessing a tempered spirit is the mark of a well trained karate-ka.
We are a family. A family of teacher, students and parents. Together, we persevere.
