FAQ

WHAT IS KARATE?
Karate is a striking martial art which originated in Japan. Karate literally means "the way of the empty hand."

WHAT STYLE OF KARATE WILL I BE DOING?
The style of karate we do is called ‘Shukokai,’ which means "way for all." We are members of Seishin-Do Shukokai Karate (SSK) which has clubs all over the North of England and WUKF (The World Union of Karate Federations).

WHAT DO I WEAR ON MY FIRST LESSON?
Just something loose fitting like a tee-shirt and jogging bottoms.

WHO IS THE INSTRUCTOR?
Lessons are taken by Sensei David Moon, 3rd Dan Black Belt. David is a fully qualified, registered and CRB-checked karate instructor who has been training for close to twenty years now and teaching in clubs for over a decade. You will notice that the club is a family-orientated club and David is assisted by a team of experienced Senior and Junior Instructors.

CAN I GRADE FOR NEW BELTS?
Certainly. If you attend lessons regulary and have a MINIMUM of 20 lessons during an approximated 3 month period (40 lessons within 6 months for purple belts onwards) and are a club and up to date SSK licence holder, you will be invited to grade. You just need to be comfortable with the relevant syllabus which is obviously taught in lesson and available for download on the Seishin-Do Karate website. Gradings are held approximately every three months.

IS KARATE AN EXPENSIVE SPORT?
No. Once you have bought all your basic equipment, such as a "gi" (karate suit) and sparring mitts (essential for safety) only the lesson fees, grading fees and annual membership is needed. Basics such as punching pads and mats will be provided at the lessons. Those who want to compete in tournaments will have to pay for them, but they are not expensive to enter and are usually around £8 to £10.

DO I HAVE TO SPEND STRAIGHT AWAY?
No. Unlike some other clubs, we don't make you sign direct debits or buy lessons in advance, You pay as you go. Furthermore, it is essential to stress that it isn’t necessary to buy ANYTHING until you are comfortable that karate is the right sport for you. We even give you your first lesson for free - it's simple! It's pointless buying items straight away if you aren't going to stick at the sport. Once you are happy to stay with us, any items, e.g. a suit can be ordered from Sensei in club.

WILL I GET HURT?
Karate is a contact sport, but it is no more dangerous than any other sport. Our Instructors are first aid trained and we have never had any serious injuries in club.

WHY SHOULD I TRY KARATE?
Karate is a fun place to meet new people. The sport gives you positive physical attributes (speed, power and flexibility etc.) but it assists in the development of self-confidence and discipline. If you wish to try a new sport, karate could be the sport for you!