What is Karate?

Karate is a form of unarmed self defence that originated in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. It has evolved over hundreds of years, but it has only been in the last century that it came to exist in its present form.

Karate, while it has its beginnings in Japan, in the years after WWII it has spread quickly across the world. There are many different styles of karate, and even more associations to represent each style. None is any better or more effective than the other in general, but quality of instruction will vary considerably from club to club.

Karate is characterized by the various techniques used in practicing defence. Strong emphasis is placed on proper stance posture and body alignment as well as repetition of various blocking, punching and kicking techniques. Kata are preset patterns of movement that distinguish one style of Karate from another, and sparring can be expected once a certain level of proficiency has been reached. Typically tradional clubs require white uniforms called "Karate Gi". Training is always barefoot unless there is an injury (or in other special circumstances). The language of Karate is Japanese, and typically the movements and technique will be described using Japanese vocabulary. This is something that people outside of Japan simply get used to during their time practicing. Rather than being a barrier, using Japanese universally actually helps people from all over the world to practice together with relative ease.

Traditional Karate Dojo (clubs) adhere to a code of ethical behaviour. This is rooted in teachings passed from one instructor to the next and is based strongly on Japanese culture. A traditional Karate Dojo will require members to follow a Japanese concept called "Reigi" or formal actions. This includes bowing, being respectful to senior and junior members, keeping a serious attitude while in the dojo, etc. This adherance to a set of rules passed on over generations helps all members of the dojo to focus on learning a physical activity that involves a certain level of physical involvement with others as well as to develop the self discipline and self awareness to achieve the physical demands of training in Karate.

For more information about Karate history please click here >>

***NEWS***

Examination results

Congratulations to everyone that passed their recent rank examinations in December. Special congratulations to our newest black belts! Our new Shodan members are:

• Hatsu Kimura
• Tristan Orr
• Kai Belrose

Great work everyone!

Back to classes!

We are still dealing with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, however with the current regulations we are able to offer almost normal classes once again. We will continue to observe safety protocols, including:

• physical distancing as much as possible,
• hand hygiene,
• NO spectators during training
• and continued use of masks when appropriate.

Please remember to stay home and recover if you are experiencing any cold or flu-like symptoms. Not only is it important to keep everyone else from being exposed to potential illness, but it is also not a good idea to participate in strenuous physical activity while sick. Please come back to practice once you are fully recovered.

If you have any concerns about in-person practice please let us know.

Questions, comments or just need more info, please email at calgarygojukai@gmail.com.