Introduction

Traditional Shotokan Karate

Select a Martial Art to Suit you

Shotokan Karate is the original form of Karate that has been taught by the Japanese masters and passed on from generation to generation, thus keeping the art as close to the original training practices as possible, but also having the ability to change with the times in a professional and subtle way, thus keeping Karate-Do the Way of Karate.

Unfortunately there are those who train for a short time in Karate, or any other Martial Art then the going gets tough. So off they go, open a club under their own banner, become masters; overnight champions of their own clubs etc, etc.

Check out a club that suits you, check the authenticity of the instructor, their public liability.

The track record of the instructor is a good indication of how your Karate will develop.

Fancy advertisements do not mean you are going to receive proper training.

What is Karate?

Although it is now accepted as a Japanese martial art, Karate is a form of self-defence that can be traced back to India over 2000 years ago. Buddhist Monks, whose religion forbade them from using weapons, developed a system of self defence techniques using their hands and feet to protect them from robbers whilst travelling.

The system was so effective that other religious orders also developed self-defence systems. One of these was the famous Shaolin Temple in China. From those humble beginnings many hundreds of years ago, the now immensely popular martial art of Karate has developed.

What is Shotokan?

Modern Karate is split into a number of different styles all of which use similar techniques, but students should be careful to select a club and style that is properly registered and run by qualified instructors.

The Southern Shotokan Karate Association, as the name suggests practices the Shotokan style of Karate. The Shotokan style is recognised as being extremely powerful and highly disciplined.

The late great master Gichin Funakoshi brought it to Japan from Okinawa.

Training with the S.S.K.A.

We want all our members to enjoy their training, whilst also aiming to maintain the true disciplines and spirit of the original temple style. Shotokan Karate is very disciplined and we expect all students to treat the art with respect. It is especially important for students to remember that Karate is for self-defence and not something to show off or seek confrontation with.

Why Get Stated in Shotokan Karate

Men: Regular training will improve your fitness and confidence in your own ability. Knowing that you can react to situations automatically and yet be in control of your power is a great personal asset. Random aggression towards people who annoy you will diminish as you learn to control yourself, this will give you a calmer out look and reduce stress.
Learn how to deal with aggression enables you to choose your response to it. Knowing what you could do to an aggressor gives you the option – you are in control.

Women: More and more women are enjoying the Martial Arts as keep fit routines, but they are also becoming aware that they can use it for self defence and as a builder of confidence.

Children: Shotokan Karate is very useful for children especially with regard to learning respect for others, discipline and confidence.

Children learn not to bully or use violence to get their own way. It is a fast and exciting way to provide an outlet for children’s natural energy.

How to Get Started

Which Club should I join?
You are welcome to attend any club belonging to the S.S.K.A but try and pick a venue that you can reach easily or where there is someone you know who is already a member. You should train regularly at the club that you have chosen and be loyal to your instructor.

Do I Have to Book Up?
No – You just turn up for a lesson and walk in. The instructor will notice you and take care of you from there on.

If you like you can telephone the instructor beforehand and make arrangements – again the instructor will guide you as to what to do.

Always remember that every person in the class, including the instructor, has started out just like you, so they understand how you feel. Try to be a little early so that you don’t have to rush in with everyone already there.

Refreshments and Equipment.
· A small bottle of drinking water is all you will need.
· If you eat before you train make sure you have time to digest it properly.
· Any loose clothing will be suitable to start e.g. jogging bottoms & tee shirt

If you do not want to join in once you get there – that is fine just sit and watch.