Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If you have these questions, many others do too!
What level of fitness is required? I don’t know if I’m fit enough to do karate.
You don’t need a high level of fitness to start karate, because your fitness will naturally improve through a regular training regime, as long as you are prepared to challenge yourself to do one better than yesterday. Our Beginner’s training is designed to provide you the foundations of Shotokan Karate, without the pressure of “keeping up” with the rest of the class.
I have an existing injury/medical condition - can I still do karate?
One of the best things about karate is its inclusive, but we also don’t want to make injuries worse. If you have an existing medical condition or injury which may affect physical activity, please seek advice from your medical professional (doctor, physio etc) prior to training, and let the Sensei know, and work within your considerations. You may be asked to provide a medical certificate to confirm that strenuous activity is ok by your Doctor.
What do I need to bring for my trial lesson?
Towel, bottle of water, light jacket, and yourself.
Do I need to buy a uniform straight away?
No, gym/exercise clothing will be appropriate until you decide to join the association and continue your journey.
Where can I buy a karate uniform?
You can purchase a uniform, called a “do-gi” or “gi” from any martial arts shop, or Sensei can order one in for you at the club price, as we order quite a few!
If I move interstate, can I transfer my membership to another SKIA dojo?
Yes, in most cases membership can be transferred to another SKIA dojo if you relocate. Please provide as much notice as possible so that the transfer can be arranged between the instructors, and the Memberships Office. A letter (or email) of introduction from the current instructor to the new instructor called a “Shokai” may be required as part of traditional etiquette.
One of the benefits of being a member of a national and global association such as SKIA (national), and SKIF (Int’l) is that your grade is nationally and internationally registered (for black belts), therefore your grade will be transferred with you.
I’m sick with the cold/flu, should I still come to training?
No, please stay at home and rest to aid a full recovery. Training when sick will not help you get better and you risk passing on the germs to others in the dojo, and that’s not cool.
If you are recovering from COVID, please follow the isolation protocols of NSW Health.
Do I have to compete in order to grade to the next level?
No, competing is not compulsory, however it is strongly encouraged, as we need to step out of our comfort zone once in a while and learn to control our nerves. Competition is not the only thing we do, but it’s an important piece. The more we do it, the more we learn about ourselves. Training in karate but not competing is like signing up for the soccer/cricket/tennis/basketball etc season and not turning up to the weekend games.
