Frequently Asked Questions
Use the links below to find answers to some of the frequently asked questions about starting karate. Should you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
What will I gain?Who can take part?What will I need?How quickly will I progress?Who will teach me?How much will it cost?
What will I gain?
Karate is not only
an excellent all round sport developing stamina,
strength and suppleness but like most martial arts instils a sense of
discipline, self-control, mental alertness and quicker reflexes. On top
of all those benefits, which can be found in other sports, Karate also
offers one other major advantage - self-defence.
Who can take part?
Anybody over the age of seven can take part, we have students over the age of 40. Children (and Adults!) must be able to tell their left from their right.Throughout the classes students are encouraged to participate at their own level. All we request is 100% effort. If the work-out becomes too strenuous then nobody will mind people taking a break or performing a slightly easier variation of exercise.
What will I need?
For your first few
classes there is no need to buy a Gi (karate suit). Just wear comfortable
loose fitting clothes like a T-shirt and track-suit
trousers will be fine. All training is done bare foot so no need for
expensive trainers either.
How quickly will I progress?
With a little dedication, and some practice at home, most students are able to grade (tested for the next belt) every 4-6 months.This is providing you are prepared to put the training time in and learn, and also making time to practice what you learn in lessons at home away from the club! Also in kids cases without disrupting others in the class or misbehaving! This could mean getting your black belt in 5-6 years. The more you practice the quicker you'll progress but there are certain time restrictions between gradings.
Who will teach me?
All classes are run
by qualified, and fully insured black-belt instructors.
Russell Baker and Jerome Hamiliton have over 30 years Karate experience
between them and have been instructors for over 10 years each. Michelle
Honeywell has been instructing for the past six years, and has been training
at the club for the past thirteen years.
How much will it cost?
Compared to a lot
of sports and hobbies Karate must be one of the cheapest to get into.
To continue classes you will need the following:1. Association Licence
- £17.50
2. Karate Gi (suit) - approximately £15.00 to 25.00 depending on
weight of gi required
3. Gradings - £10 each (up to final brown belt), which includes
belt and
certificateFor competitions you
will also need your own set of sparing mits, gum
shield and groin protector each available for between £10 and £15
pounds, if you wish to purchase any protectors, please see one of our
Instructors who can order the items required.
