FAQ's - Frequently Asked Questions

In an effort to address some of the most common questions we are asked, we have provided an extensive FAQ section. The links below have been added so that you may navigate this information more quickly and efficiently.

Who will teach me?  |   How fit do I have to be?  |   Am I to old?
Is karate suitable for children?  |   Is karate suitable for women?
What will I learn?  |   How much does it cost?  |   How often should I train?
What do I wear?  |   Where are you located?  |   What do I do next?

WHO WILL TEACH ME?

It is very important to start correctly and choose the right instructor. The chief instructor Adam Carter, is a 8th dan black-belt with almost 50 years of experience, a qualified First Aider with advanced life saving skills, a retired EMT trained by NHS Ambulance Service in the UK. Our senior instructor Noel Carter, is a 5th dan black-belt and she has over 30 years experince in the Martial Arts. We have an enhanced Criminal Records Bureau check, therefore you can be safe in the knowledge that your children are protected, and we have personal and public liabilty insurance. When you join the Shuri Karate Dojo you can be sure of top class, professional tuition.

HOW FIT DO I HAVE TO BE?

You don't. Some of the people who start karate maybe unfit. The instructors know this and will teach you accordingly. If you want all the superb benefits karate has to offer then you will BECOME fitter as you practice.

Dojo Cap available to purchase at the Dojo

AM I TO OLD?

Of course not!. Your never to old to start. If you are over 40 and have not exercised in a while it may be wise to check with your doctor just to make sure. But there are many older karate-ka (one who practices karate). This is one of the many benefits of karate practice. You can keep going as long as you want and are able to, some Okinawan and Japanese masters practice well in to their 80's and 90's..

IS KARATE SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN?

YES! Karate is one of the best activities a child can practice, with the degree of discipline, respect and etiquette taught in the class your child will learn to accept more responsibilities, become more aware and confident. Add to this fitness and the ability to be able to stand up for themselves. You can see why so many parents enroll their children in karate classes. Children from 12 years of age are accepted.

IS KARATE SUITABLE FOR WOMEN?

ABSOLUTELY! Karate is perfect for women. It will increase your confidence and awareness, you will learn to use the strong parts of you body against the weaker parts of an attacker, along with ways of using your whole body to defeat an opponent rather than using strength. Karate also exercises and tones up the entire body helping you look and feel great!

WHAT WILL I LEARN?

You will learn traditional Okinawan karate, not Japanese sport karate (Click here to learn more about our karate style). You will learn SELF DEFENCE from the first lesson starting with simple easy to remember techniques and exercises, you will be surprised how quickly you will learn.

Every 3/4 months we hold promotion's and so it's up to you how much you do and how far you go, you will be able to train with other beginners and be allowed to develop at you own rate and without pressure.

Dojo Cap available to purchase at the Dojo

We have a structured syllabus, which is designed to take you in easy steps from beginner to black belt and beyond, in a friendly, helpful, and safe atmosphere. You will be treated with respect, courtesy and patience at all times. Everyone in the dojo was once a beginner (even the instructors) so they all know how nerve racking it is when you first start training, because of this everyone tries to help make it as easy and enjoyable as possible to learn.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

We have structured lesson fees, where you can pay monthly by cash or check. There are NO contracts. The more often you train the lower the cost of the lesson. There is a one off Shuri Dojo registration fee. (Click here for our current fees and times)

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I TRAIN?

A minimum of two classes a week are recommended, more classes are required for advanced students and for those that wish to progess faster. Remember that you get out what you put in. As with any sport, hobby or pastime, the more you practice the more proficient you will become.

WHAT DO I WEAR?

To start with, anything loose and comfortable, a track suit or jogging bottoms with a tee-shirt or sweat shirt is ideal. A Karate Gi (karate uniform), must be purchased within a month of starting classes and can be bought from the dojo along with any other equipment. We train in bare feet.

WHERE ARE YOU LOCATED?

We no longer have a commercial school and we teach from our home dojo. We are located in the Chicago area of 60638. Please Note: We only accept those students who are dedicated and committed to Karate for the long term.

Current Covid-19 safety precautions are in operation and classes are by appointment only.

IT SOUNDS GREAT, WHAT DO I DO NEXT?

CLICK HERE to JOIN US or for further information.

[ previous page ]    [ sitemap ]