FAQ
How do I sign up?
Visit the dojo and speak with Kyoshi Cunningham. Some classes have a waiting list, but most classes can be started on the same night you come in.
How old do you have to be to start karate?
Right now, students must be at least 4 years old to take karate at Cunningham Isshinryu Dojo. Younger students will be considered on an individual basis.
Why does Isshinryu use a vertical punch instead of a twist punch?
Our founder believed the vertical punch is stronger and more practical than the normal twist punches. You will learn more about this as you train with us.
I studied Isshinryu before at another dojo. Can I wear my old belt?
It's possible. Sensei will want to talk to you about how long you have been out of training if it is a colored belt. Isshinryu brown or black belts can wear their obi regardless of the duration of the lapse in training.
Do I need a uniform (called a do-gi or karate-gi)?
Eventually, yes. For your initial few weeks of training, a pair of sweatpants and a T-shirt are fine. You will want a uniform after a few weeks. Talk to Sensei about ordering one through the dojo.
I have a do-gi from previous training. Can I wear it?
That is fine. However, out of respect, please remove any patches from your previous school first.
Do I have to spar or fight?
Not right away, but you will find it fun, empowering, and a good workout. We will not push anyone into fighting or sparring, but jiyu kumite (free sparring) is one of the best ways to apply newly learned techniques and get a feel for combat.
Am I too old to start Karate?
No age is too old. You will work at your pace and will likely be surprised at how much you can do. Sensei Cunningham is in his 60's. We have recently promoted Black Belts who started in their late 30's and early 40's. As one of our black belts, Emma likes to say, "You're not too old... unless you're dead."
What can I expect in an average class?
We will do warm-ups, stretching, some exercises, some basic techniques, kata (pre-arranged fighting sequences), self-defense, and other activities.
How should I prepare for my first class?
Show up with an open mind and be prepared to learn from experienced teachers. If you have any current medical conditions, you may want to ask your doctor about participating in this class before beginning.
Is there testing for promotion?
With a few exceptions, all promotions are awarded after a formal evaluation. See the page for belt progression for details regarding each rank. Under normal circumstances, most ranks will be allowed to test after a minimum of 3-6 months of consistent training. It is considered impolite, however, to ask your Sensei to test. Just train hard; new ranks will come in time.
Is there homework?
No, but you can practice at home in front of a mirror. It helps a lot.
How much is a uniform?
A student do-gi costs $35 to $60 (child to adult), which includes an entire uniform - pants, jacket, belt, and dojo patches. When properly cared for, your uniform should last a long time.
What color uniform should I get?
All youth students (under 12 years of age) start with a white uniform until they reach yellow belt. At that time, younger students may choose to wear a black gi. Adults may wear either a black or white gi to start. Off-color (i.e. anything other than black or white) uniforms are not permitted. At brown belt, students of any age may choose to replace the Mizugami patch with Isshinryu kanji. Ask Sensei about this detail.
Do I need gloves and foot pads for sparring?
During point sparring practice, protective gear is required. For jiyu kumite (practice sparring), protective gear is optional.
What is the difference between Kung Fu, Karate, and Tae Kwon Do?
There is no quick answer to that question. Each style of martial arts has its inherent strengths (and weaknesses). Perhaps the easier question is, "What is similar between kung-fu, karate, and TKD?" Each teaches discipline, confidence, self-defense, and being a gracious winner (and loser), among other things. We train in Isshinryu karate because it meets all of these needs (and more) in our lives.