Training Methods

A thorough warmup, including gentle full body movement to prepare your body for training. This usually includes several karate-specific movements called Preparatory Exercises along with the more standard hip rotations, reaching, and breathing you are probably already familiar with. I’ll be honest here, as I’ve gotten older the importance of a proper warmup has only grown.

Basic techniques such as punching, kicking, and blocking, both stationary and moving around the space. This type of training is often referred to as Kihon, or basics, and it serves to both polish your technique and get the heart pumping.

Partner work, including more basic techniques, pre-arranged sets, or self-defense drills with live human training partner.

Kata are pre-arranged solo forms that contain the techniques of our karate style. If you have not seen kata demonstrated before, imagine Tai Chi done with a bit more vigor or a dance routine composed mainly of striking and blocking moves. We also spend time practicing bunkai or the fighting techniques behind the kata movements.