What are the Martial Arts ?

The Martial Arts are the study of self-defense. The Martial Arts originated in Asia several thousand years ago and developed into many styles or types, including Kung Fu, Karate-do, Tae Kwon Do, AikiJujitsu, Aikido, and many others.

What is Karate-do ?

Karate-do is a Japanese term that translates to “way of the empty hand”, so named for a person’s ability to defend themselves without the use of a weapon. The term “ karate-do ” was first used by the founder of the Shotokan style, Gichin Funakoshi. The term is now used by many styles of Martial Arts.

Where did Karate-do originate ?

Gichin Funakoshi studied two ancient Okinawan arts known as Shuri-te and Naha-te, to create the highly respected art known as Shotokan Karate-do. Shotokan is the art practiced by the students at Ken Yu Kan Karate School. This style is now headquartered in Tokyo and is the most widely practiced style in Japan. Shotokan combines blocks, hand strikes, kicks, and grappling (sweeps, throws, and ground defense).

Can you explain the word “ do ” in Karate-do ?

“ Do ” (pronounced doe) translates into English as “path”, “direction”, or “way”. It describes the mental and character development that a Traditional Karate practitioner benefits from training. The “path” allows the student to learn superior self-defense skills, yet become less aggressive and violent. “Do ” also signifies that the techniques taught are truly an art.

Will Karate-do be in conflict with my religious beliefs ?

No. Karate-do training is considered areligious, in other words, it isn’t for, nor against, any person’s spiritual beliefs. Sure, values are stressed in our training, however these values are the same found in virtually every religion in the world: speak the truth, work hard, strive for perfection, always treat others with respect and courtesy, be self-confident but not egotistical, and attempt to settle disputes non-violently. When you see us bow in class, it not based on religion, but simply the Japanese way of showing respect and courtesy.

Does Karate help you learn how to fight ?

No. At Ken Yu Kan, you will learn how to defend yourself, but more importantly you will learn how to avoid conflict, and have conflict avoid you! A qualified instructor can show you how your attitude and your actions can influence a situation. Master Funakoshi said, “You may have a million enemies in this world, it is your actions that could provoke them.” Also, you cannot fake self-confidence. An attacker must sense your true confidence in your ability to defend yourself. Simply carrying your head held high and making eye contact is not enough. You must be able to back it up. You will acheive that in Shotokan Karate-do.

Our school believes that a person must act respectful, courteous, and non-violently, if he or she expects to be treated by others the same way. If physical conflict does occur, our students are taught to use the the force necessary to end that conflict.

What do you learn in a Karate school ?

You learn how to defend yourself by using numerous techniques involving the hands, arms, elbows, elbows, knees, and feet. You learn how to block an opponent’s attack and immediately counter attack with a variety of hand strikes, kicks, and grappling (take-down) techniques. You learn proper stances and movement. You develop incredible balance, agility, quickness, and stamina, all of which will help you in your other sports and activities.

In Shotokan Karate-do, we emphasize the learning of “kata” (ancient, pre-organized sequences, involving all of the techniques and stances), often called the art in Martial Arts. Kata is the mark of any legitimate Karate school.

Sparring, or “kumite”, is also taught, allowing a student to practice their techniques with a partner, in a safe, controlled setting. Kumite better prepares students, both physically and mentally, for a real-life self-defense situation.

What other benefits can I expect to gain ?

A qualified school will help you develop self-confidence and self-esteem. You will learn how to become more self-disciplined. You will also learn to be humble, courteous and always respect others. You will be capable of defending yourself, yet you will choose non-violent means to resolve conflict whenever possible.

What if I have no prior training? What if I'm uncoordinated or out of shape?

Most of Ken Yu Kan's students come to us with no experience at all. Regardless of your experience, your coordination, or physical abilities, you can excel in our program.

How do I choose a Karate school ?

With something as important as Martial Arts training, you should choose carefully. Since there are no governmental certifications of any kind for Martial Arts schools or instructors, it is best to rely on the school’s reputation in the community. The class sessions should be open to anyone who would like to observe, as often as they like (unless there is a private session in progress). You should watch a session first, before joining the school, and it might be a good idea to view another school as well. You may find yourself more at-ease in one over another.

You will have to decide if you want to train in a “traditional” art such as Shotokan, closely to the way it is taught at the source in Asia, or a school that teaches a non-traditional style, usually a blend of several, taught in a manner that you would not see in China, Korea, or Japan.

While at the school, be sure to ask as many questions as you desire. Meet with the instructors before, or after the class session. Remember, there is no such thing as a “stupid question”, so you should feel free to have all your questions answered.

Some questions that you should ask are: “How long has your school been here? “, “Is your school affiliated or certified by any organizations, and if so, where are it’s headquarters?”, “How many certified instructors do you have?”, “Do you dabble in many styles, or do you specialize in one martial art that combines all of the necessary elements of self-defense?

Once you have viewed the class, read through their literature, and asked your questions, you must now consider the expense. You must then ask: “How much are your lessons?”, “Do you charge a sign-up fee or initiation fee?”, “Do you charge for the uniform?”, “Do you charge for testing, each time I hope to advance in the belt ranks?”. Finally, ask "Am I required to sign a long-term contract?" These additional charges and fees can really add up, so be sure you are willing to pay them if a school charges for them, but remember, not all do.

Should I join a Karate school ?

YES! Locate a school where you feel comfortable, both with the instructors and the students and sign up! It will be without a doubt, one of the best investments you will ever make in yourself. If you select a proper school, you will attain the highest degree of physical and mental fitness, enabling you to become healthier, happier, and safer.