FAQ's

Within KMKA you can start training at 5 years old (to comply with insurance coverage)

Most people take up Karate for self-defence. Some of the benefits that can be derived from regular practice of Karate, by people of all ages, regardless of sex are...

• The promotion of physical fitness.

• Deeper mental awareness and self-control.

• A practical method of self-defence.

• Respect, and an understanding of yourself and others.

• A strong social aspect where many friendships are made.

One, preferably two classes per week is ample as a beginner and when you start to progress this will also help to improve your fitness. 

Absolutely! any additional practice you can do at home will vastly help within your lessons and improve your chances at succeeding at grading.

Grading is available to students 4 times per year (March, June, September & December) However it is not compulsory that a student grades each time. This is something that not only your Sensai needs to feel you are ready for but more importantly you feel ready for. You should be confident about your ability to grade and that you understand what is required of you to get a passing grade. There is no shame or stigma attached to waiting until you are ready to grade, in fact in most cases it shows a level of maturity and self-reflection that will only enhance your Karate journey. Each student must attend a minimum of 12 training sessions between gradings to ensure they have had enough time to cover their required syllabus.

To get straight to the point, you don't have to be fit at all. As a beginner your instructor will be aware of this and ease you into the training regime allowing you to work at your pace or as hard or easy as you want. As you progress within Karate so will your fitness.

Absolutely, we have many Women within the association both as students and instructors. If competitive fighting isn’t your thing, then the Kata side of Karate opens new doors to the potential of personal success. We also have specific Women only classes to help boost self confidence and ability.

Initially, anything loose and comfortable; a track suit and a white T-shirt is ideal. Bear in mind that we train in bare feet.

If you have any jewellery (rings, watches, necklaces etc.) please remove them before training, or, better still, leave them at home.

When you want a proper Karate Gi (suit) talk to your instructor. We can often get suits at a lower cost than ones online or in stores. 

If you are an active member of the association then yes! Speak to your local Sensai so they can advise you on what categories are available to you and what will be needed for you to attend.

Karate does involve physical contact and you have to be very lucky or extremely good to avoid the occasional bruise in your Martial Arts career. The instructors are very aware of the potential for injury and constantly strive to promote technical excellence and self control to reduce the risks. If you do get a knock its always good to know that each club has registered first aiders for every class. If you have pre-existing conditions make your Sensai aware so that they can help you to adjust your training accordingly.

• All of our instructors are checked and certified by the Criminal Records Bureau

• All Club locations have public liability insurance

• All Club locations have First aiders on site (including gradings and competitions)

• The Association also has an appointed safeguarding officer

• Apart from our normal "club training" we have regular grading examinations, special courses, social events and attend local and national competitions.

Whatever your needs, there is something for you in Karate. For many people Karate is more than a hobby, it is a way of life.