What
is Karate ?
Karate is a system of physical training and self-defense originally
synthesized in Okinawa from Chinese fighting styles and later refined in Japan.
The word Karate was formed from the Japanese word for empty (kara) and hand (te),
symbolizing that practitioners (KarateKa) are unarmed, but use their hands and
feet as weapons. What is Shotokan Karate ?
There
are a number of styles of karate, and in each the teaching vary slightly, as do
the emphasis on speed, strength and type of technique. Shotokan takes the balanced
approach, developing training systems that instill the individual with confidence
and self control. Originated by the Okinawan teacher Funakoshi Gichin who introduced
karate to Japan in 1922, Shotokan was extensively developed by the Japanese Master
Masatoshi Nakayama. There have been relatively few changes since then and Shotokan
has spread to become the most widely practiced style of karate throughout the
world. Child Protection
The UKTKF is
provocative on Child Protection issues and it is a policy for all UKTKF affiliated
club instructors to have a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) Certificate of clearance.
Such a certificate is only issued after in depth research via Police criminal
records and other sources into the background of an applicant. How
do children benefit ?
Karate is extremely good for children. Many parents
and teachers remark on the improvements they see in children's behavior through
the practice of karate. They find our traditional approach allows children to
enjoy themselves while letting off steam in a safe, structured and disciplined
environment. In addition to discipline and self-confidence, karate also promotes
healthy physical development during the crucial growing years. Karate is now accepted
as part of the syllabus on GCSE and A Level Physical Education courses. What
are the benefits to training ?
Regular Karate training encourages physical,
mental, and (some would say) spiritual development. An extremely effective cardio-vascular
workout, it facilitates balanced development of speed, stamina and flexibility.
In addition to improving posture, balance, spatial awareness and concentration
levels, Karate promotes commitment and dedication, helping to build a strong,
confident and determined character. Karate etiquette also fosters discipline and
respect for others both inside and outside of the dojo, with obvious benefits
to society. | | Can
Anyone Practice Karate ?
Men, Women and children of all ages can practice
karate. Our students include boys, girls, men and women of all ages and abilities.
Anyone who is of reasonable health can train karate. All karate students will
improve their self- awareness, self-confidence and self-esteem. Who
will teach Me ?
The Chief instructor of Islington Karate Club is former
international competitor Sensei Ahcene Moussaoui 5th Dan JKA. He is ably assisted
by a team of dedicated black-belt instructors. There are also regular guest instructors,
including Chief instructor of the UKTKF Sensei Masao Kowasoe 8th Dan. All instructors
attend specialist courses to develop their teaching skills, as well as first-aid,
judge and referee, club administration and child protection courses. How
much will it cost ?
Karate is not expensive compared to many other activities.
At Islington Karate Club we keep membership to a minimum. You are welcome to visit
and watch a class, or enroll in a beginners course. Training times and contact
details are provided in the website. Wear loose clothes such as a tracksuit to
begin with. Once you enroll you will need a Karate suit (Gi), a belt and a UKTKF
license. What Does Training Involve ?
Karate
training is structured into three equally important sections - basic striking
and blocking techniques (Kihon), set combinations (Kata) and sparring (Kumite).
Each section has levels of complexity tailored to students progressing through
the grades. Kumite is introduced as choreographed basic attacks, blocks and counter
- attacks, and ultimately proceeds to free-style sparring. Will
I be able to compete ?
Islington Karate Club holds regular internal and
open competitions. There are also regional and national championship, as well
as International events . Through the affiliation to the UKTKF all club members
can compete in a range of all-style karate competitions at national and international
levels. |
