FAQs
This page will hopefully answer any questions you may have.
If not please Phone
Patrick D’Arcy Mobile
number - 07985 238 095
Patrick D’Arcy Home phone
number 01283 792 060
Q. What is the structure of the lessons?
A. In keeping with tradition, techniques are learned in the Japanese style and language. Every lesson begins and ends with a formal bow. There are then usually 5 parts to the lesson:
- The class will first go through a series of
warm-ups and stretching to prevent damage to muscles and joints
during the lesson.
- Then everyone does the "Kihon"
basics - practicing basic karate techniques in stances up and down
the dojo. Techniques are usually practiced slowly at first to ensure
the form is correct, and then with speed and power.
- Afterwards, people partner up, ready for either
Ippon Kumite (one step sparring) or Jiyu-ippon Kumite (one step semi free
sparring) or Jiju-Kumite (free style sparring). However, you won't usually
need to worry about this for the first few weeks. Basic Ippon kumite
sparring is done in a controlled manner, with all blows being pulled just
short of the target. It should be mentioned that this type of
kumite teaches the control of techniques and distance (for punching
and kicking).
- The final part of the lesson is usually spent
practicing "Kata", or formal exercise. These are a set sequence
of moves that are designed to strengthen the practitioner physically and
mentally. As you come up the grades, you begin to learn the more advanced
Katas, which incorporate complex moves.
- Just before the formal bow at the end of the
lesson, time permitting, there will usually be another set of stretches
and exercises.
Q. How do I join the Club?
A. Please go to the menu on the Left Hand Side of this Web Page and click on HOW TO JOIN A CLUB
Q. What is the belt system of KUGB Shotokan Karate?
A. All in all, there are 9 grades below black belt, all known as "Kyu" grades. There are more colored belts in KUGB karate than in any other style, making it harder to obtain a black belt and therefore keeping a high standard. A KUGB student is eligible to take a Kyu grading every 3 months, provided they train at least twice a week. Gradings are conducted by a KUGB senior instructor, not the club instructor. The belt system is as follows:
Ungraded - White Belt
9th Kyu - Orange Belt
8th Kyu - Red Belt
7th Kyu - Yellow Belt
6th Kyu - Green Belt
5th Kyu - Purple Belt
4th Kyu - Purple Belt with 1 White Stripe
3rd Kyu - Brown Belt
2nd Kyu - Brown Belt with 1 White Stripe
1st Kyu - Brown Belt with 2 White Stripes
1st - 10th Dan - Black Belt
Q. How do I tie my belt?
A
Q. I've been graded in a different association to the KUGB. Will I have to start over?
A. Please go to the menu and click on MEMBERSHIP PACK look under Gradings for the full information.
Q. What are the benefits of studying Shotokan Karate?
A. Shotokan does not instantly make a person brilliant at self defense... It is a martial art that takes a long period of training to become good at and so requires a lot of perseverance and discipline.
Karate itself is a good form of aerobic exercise (which is definitely proven by doing techniques at full speed!). Aside from this, Karate also develops muscle strength, as it utilises all parts of the body. The stretching and kicking involved can also help improve flexibility and strength.
IF YOU STILL HAVE ANY FURTHER QUESTIONS
REGARDING TRAINING OR JOINING
Please read the “MEMBERSHIP PACK”
Then Phone
01283 792060 or 07985238095
or Click on the link below to email