ABOUT

Why Practise Karate?
Past experience has shown that people take up karate for many different reasons. Interestingly, the number of people who join to learn self defence by no means represent the majority. Many people join to get fit, some join because it's something different, and so on. Whatever the reason, those who persevere with the practice of karate invariably find it has much more to offer, both physically and mentally, than conventional sports.

Martial Arts: Fact and Fiction
Martial arts like karate have received considerable attention in recent years, especially through films and television. Martial artists are portrayed as being capable of astounding feats of strength, endurance and super-human athleticism. The reality of the situation is, of course, totally different. Although people like Harada Sensei – principal of the Karate-Do Shotokai (KDS) – are enormously gifted, karate will always be within the realms of the possible, where myth has no place.

Do I Have to be Fit to Practise?
Since Karate-Do Shotokai emphasises mobility, coordination and balance with a relaxed body condition, this particular style of karate can be practised by anyone regardless of age, build or sex. However, the warm-up can involve relatively strenuous activity. If there is any doubt about your ability to perform such exercise then the instructor can tailor the warm-up and practice methods to suit your needs. Generally a student who practices regularly will achieve an increased level of fitness at an acceptable pace.

Philosophy
Karate-Do Shotokai (KDS) is a traditional karate style which focuses purely on the practice of karate as a martial art. Whilst we work to develop a range of effective techniques, we don't just practise by rote. Instead, we train to build an awareness, both physical and mental, that lets us manage a situation decisively without the distraction of competitions or commercialism.