Karate Beginners FAQ
What days and times do beginners have class?
Beginners karate classes are held on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from
6:30 to 7:30. Twice a week is ideal for beginners. The beginner's class is designed
for people just starting karate. The learning pace is relaxed so that you can develop
a solid foundation.
When can I start?
You can start right away!
Contact us to schedule your first class. Our classes
meet year round and beginners can join anytime. The only requirement is a willingness
to learn and a desire to grow!
Do I have to be in shape to start?
No - you do not have to be in shape to get started! This class is designed for people
just beginning karate. The learning pace is relaxed and slow so that you can develop
a solid foundation of the traditional basic karate skills. Once you have gained
these skills, you are ready to progress to the intermediate classes.
Who teaches beginners?
Our most experienced
SafeSkills® Black Belts teach beginners. That instructor will
be assisted by other SafeSkills® instructors throughout your training.
What do I wear?
Students wear a special karate uniform called a gi. For your first class, wear clothing
that is loose and comfortable (please, no shorts). A uniform can be purchased from
us for your continued training. We train barefoot so special foot wear is not needed.
What if I don’t want to sign a contract?
SafeSkills® is a non-contract school. Dues are paid on a monthly basis. Many martial
arts schools have become “Contract Schools” in which you have to sign a contract
that commits you to paying for a year at a time. We believe that the quality of
the experience you will have at SafeSkills® will keep you returning to class each
week!
Will I get hurt in training?
We pay close attention to safety in our dojo (school). We start out slowly learning
techniques in order to build up the control of each move. Partner work is always
done with the utmost care to make sure that injuries are rare. We believe that a
safe training attitude is the key to successful training.
What can I expect in my first class?
You will have individual instruction at a pace that works for your learning. We
are light-hearted but we teach with intention. First, we start with a circle to
bow in - you will not need to know the bow for the first class - you can just watch
how it is done. We then do slow yoga style stretches. The beginner group is small
in number which gives you the opportunity to learn at your own pace, ask questions
and develop a strong foundation. Eventually, you will have gained the skills to
join in with the larger group. Learning new techniques in small groups or one-on-one will always be a part of your training.
Will I be the only: older adult, teenager, woman, man, large person, small person,
athlete, uncoordinated person... in the class?
We are a very diverse group. We have people of all ages, all sizes and all abilities.
Everyone is welcome and everyone can learn! The karate skills you learn will be
new to you. As you learn these new skills, you may experience "learning points"
- we do not call them "mistakes" but points for learning! Be patient with yourself,
this precious patience is the key to your success.