F.A.Q's

1. Do I have to be fit to join?

No, although it is good to have certain level of fitness.  If you have been to the doctor recently, ask if it is ok for you to start any training of this type.

2. How every often are the gradings?

9th Kyu - 4th Kyu: every 3 months

4th Kyu - 1st Kyu: every 6 months

1st Kyu  - 1st Dan: 1 year

1st Dan - 2nd Dan: 2 years

It is also dependent on you attendances. If the grades are every 3 months then there is a minimum of 25 attendances, every six months 50 attendances, and the yearly grades 100 attendances.

3. How long will it take to get to black belt?

If all the grades are taken at the correct time it will take approximately 4 1/2 years

4. Do I need to get a uniform/gi straight away?

No, try the lessons for about 2 weeks at this point it will be necessary to buy a uniform/gi.  They can be purchased from the instructor at the club.

5. Am I too old to start karate?

No, anybody can start karate.  People start for a number of reasons and at various ages.  Do not be put off if the class seems to be full of young people.

6. What are the injury rates

Injuries in karate are surprisingly very low. It is placed in a lower insurance group than, for example, football.

7. Do you have beginner’s classes?

Beginners are welcome to join in the main class times.  They will be taken out of the main class by a senior grade and shown the basics for 2/3 lessons when they will be able to join in with the rest.

8. Do you have tournaments?

There are opportunities for tournaments, some may be at international level.  Some tournaments are also required as part of the grading syllabus.

9. How much do lessons cost?

Lessons are offered at a competitive rate.  In the first year you will need to pay membership and insurance.  Annually thereafter you will be expected to pay insurance before being able to train/grade etc.

10. When I get my black belt do I know everything I need to know?

Contrary to popular belief, getting the black belt does not mean that everything has been learned.  It merely means that you have shown an understanding of the basics.  Compare it to driving, you don't start learning until you pass your test..