New Students

Frequently Asked Questions
Is Contact Allowed?
Karate is a contact activity. However, our style stresses control. This means, one must be able to execute a technique with full power and extension, but develop an understanding of their distance in order to stop that technique prior to making contact; a skill much more difficult that just making impact. That is not to say however, there is no contact in the dojo. We practice drills to condition our bodies to absorb and become accustomed to some impact. As we practice to improve our skills, sometimes, contact is made with one another. While some of this contact is not intentional, it is an important part of the learning process. This is why dojo etiquette and respect for each other is so important in our dojo.

How Soon Do New Students Get to Spar?
Kumite (free sparring) is often an activity that many are anxious to start when beginning karate. But there is much more to karate than kumite. One must learn basic skills and build a good foundation in these skills before advancing to kumite. A baby must learn to crawl before it can walk. And it must learn to walk before it can run. The same holds true for kumite. It may look easy, but imagine a baby trying to run before even learning to crawl. If learning kumite is your goal, patience and hard work are the key.

What to Anticipate
As a new student, here is some helpful insight as to what you can expect to encounter on your first day of class and throughout your training:

Shito-Ryu is a traditional martial art and as such, we train in our bare feet. You will learn the basic fundamentals of Shito-Ryu karate which includes blocking, punching, kicking, various self-defense techniques, and forms (kata). As your training progresses, you will learn sparring techniques (kumite), proper falling, and grappling.
Until you have your uniform, please wear comfortable workout clothing to allow yourself freedom to move and remove ALL jewelry prior to arrival.
Please bring water and a towel to refresh yourself after class.
Be sure to check out Dojo Etiquette and Terminology as you begin to get acclimated.

Genbu-Kai Riverside Karate-Do