What we do:

We teach self-defense focused Karatedo that is not only a beautiful martial art, but effective for self-defense in a way we can prove. But first, what really is Karatedo?

Karate is a martial art originating in Okinawa. It was designed for self-defense. Karatedo means 'the way of Karate.' Most practitioners alternate between the two words. We do as well, but we include the ‘do’ because it translates well to what we teach; That Karate teachings are applicable to many facets of life outside the dojo.

Okinawa (沖縄本島), or as it’s called in the native language of the islands, Uchinā, is the largest of a chain of Pacific islands. The island was important historically due to its value as a port halfway between China and the main Japanese islands. Okinawans used Karate as self-defense, and the art was later adapted as part of Japan’s cultural identity after WWII.

Carrying on the Uchinā tradition, the version of Karatedo we practice is also focused on self-defense. We teach through:

• Kata: a series of techniques you practice solo

• Kihon: fundamentals like stances and techniques

• Kumite: partner work (drills, pads, sparring, etc.)

Why don’t we only use sparring to learn self-defense? Why Kata?:

• The purpose of sparring is to land good hits. Kata often involves techniques that would be dangerous to use with a sparring partner, such as breaking an opponent’s arm. Don’t worry, we practice sparring as well and understand how vital it is to training.

• Kata is also about training your mind to execute complex movements without thought. This erases hesitation when executing complex movements in a real-life scenario.

When you join the class, we’re not going to throw you straight into bag work or very intense sparring. We will teach you basic blocks and attacks, our first kata, and light sparring. We know from experience that strong fundamentals are the key to truly advanced martial arts. The class will get harder as you grow and as we challenge you more.

In addition to these training tools, other things you can expect from our classes are: Warmup and stretching routines, breathing exercises, practicing realistic self-defense scenarios, and verbal class discussions about Karatedo and self-defense.

FAQ:

How much does it cost to join?

• Cost differs depending on the recreation center. At Anita Martinez Recreation, the cost is $30 dollars per month. At Arcadia Recreation Center, the cost $20 dollars per month, $5 if you just want to drop in for the day. At both locations, the first class you take is free. If you have completed a test and want to advance to the next belt level, we charge a total of $15 to cover the price of your belt and certificate.

  Because we hold class inside a Dallas recreation center, you will need to purchase a Dallas Recreation Card in order to participate. These are priced $0-$25 depending on age and residency. They are good for 1 year, and can be purchased here. Filter by City Wide Recreation Card.

What should I bring?

• Water, deodorant, and yourself.

Do I have to wear a Karate uniform?

• You are encouraged to wear a Karate uniform (karategi), but if you don’t have one, that’s not a huge deal. Karate can be done in any clothing. The reason we wear gi is to not only honor the tradition, but because they are made of sturdy material and can be grabbed roughly without the fabric tearing. This allows us to teach techniques that might damage other workout wear.

  TL;DR: You don’t have to, but we may not be able to teach you some techniques if you don’t have one.

  We currently do not sell gi, but we do have suggestions for where to purchase one.

When will I get my black belt?:

• Everyone starts as a white belt, then periodically tests for their next rank. The typical minimum time, from white to black, is about 3 years. Regardless of rank, you have to be at least 16 to get your black belt. You also have to pass two tests: One written, going over history and application of techniques, and the other practical, where we review your kata and various exercises. Everyone learns at their own pace, so it varies how quickly you can get there.

What is the age range for this class?

• For most classes, all ages are welcome. Younger than 6, however, and your child may not be at the stage where they are able to hold enough focus to participate in class yet. This will be determined on a case-by-case basis, and we reserve the right to decide what is or is not appropriate for our class.

  • Advanced class, held from 7:00PM to 7:45PM at Arcadia Recreation Center, is adults-only.

What style of Karate do you teach?

• We do not teach exclusively any one style. We teach Kata from Goju-ryu, Uechi-ryu, Shorin-ryu, and others. Our current teacher, Onaga Sensei, is of the Okinawan Shito-ryu style.

I am not very fit. Can I still learn Karate?

• Yes. Karate is for self-defense, and particularly, it is an art adapted for ordinary people who can’t (necessarily) bench press 200 lbs. or run a marathon. As always, please check with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.

I am disabled. Can I still learn Karate?

• Yes. I can’t promise we will instantly know how to adapt to your needs, but we would not be good teachers if we did not try. Our sect has a history of disabled Karate practitioners. As stated above, check with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine.