Are your instructors certified?
All of our instructors are certified through the National coaching certification program (NCCP), completed their instructor certification through Soseikan in Japan, and are certified in standard first aid.
At what age can a child start karate?
Every child is different so some may feel ready to begin learning karate earlier! Our programs begin with the Mini Miyagis program which starts at 3 years old while students ages 5-6 begin in the Kids Karate program.
Can I come watch or try a class before signing up?
You can absolutely come watch a class before signing up. However, we encourage you to take advantage of our free trial program and actually try a few classes before registering. All you need to participate is comfortable clothing and a water bottle!
Can I do karate if I’m not athletic?
Yes! During classes we work to improve coordination, strength, and endurance. Everyone starts somewhere and karate is all about your personal journey. After all, a white belt is a higher rank than sitting on the couch!
Can parents stay to watch class?
Of course! We have a waiting area where parents can sit and watch our classes on a TV screen since having parents on the floor with their child can prove distracting.
Do I need equipment or a uniform?
Not when you’re first trying classes. If you decide to register for any of our programs, our introductory package includes a gi (uniform). If you’d like a spare uniform or any equipment, these may be purchased through our online store.
Does karate make kids violent? Will karate make my child more aggressive?
Absolutely not! Karate allows children to focus on character development and self-control, increase their confidence, and develop skills for conflict avoidance. In addition to being a great outlet for stress and extra energy, karate helps students focus on individual growth, improve their coordination, and provides them with structure.
How do I progress to the next belt level?
Our Instructors will let you know when you’re ready to test for your next level. However, if you’re curious we note the requirements in our members section. Private lessons are always available if you’d like to build on your knowledge or refine your skills further. As always, send us a message if you have additional questions.
How good is karate for fitness?
Karate is excellent for improving and maintaining your fitness level. Different aspects of karate, like kihon (basics), kata (forms), and kumite (sparring), form or contribute to a great workout! Additionally, all of our programs focus on increasing your flexibility, strength, coordination, stamina and endurance.
I have previous experience with a different form of martial arts, do I have to participate in
a beginner’s class?
a beginner’s class?
Not necessarily; there are many different styles of martial arts! Please contact us and we can discuss your past training and see which of our programs best suits your skillset.
Is bowing in karate religious?
Bowing in any martial arts class is an act of courtesy, like a handshake, as opposed to kneeling in worship. When a person bows to another person, be it an instructor or competitor, they’re expressing their respect! Sometimes in class people will bow to a flag or even a photograph of the founder of a particular style of karate, again, this isn’t worship but a way to display respect.
Additionally, sometimes people bow when they enter a dojo to show respect to the space itself.
Additionally, sometimes people bow when they enter a dojo to show respect to the space itself.
Is karate safe for children to learn?
Absolutely, our facility is a physically safe space and all precautions are taken to ensure your child can succeed in karate as a sport while developing their character and leadership skills.
Is there contact in karate?
There are aspects of karate that involve controlled contact, like partner drills. Kumite (sparring) also has contact but our instructors’ main priority is the safety of all participants! Before engaging in contact, we ensure that all students are partnered with someone at their same level. The intent behind contact in karate is not to hurt but to train, learn, improve
and be able to go to work the next day!
and be able to go to work the next day!
My child has ADHD, will they benefit from karate?
Yes! Karate is a great way to teach concentration and self-control to all children in a structured learning environment. Our students learn self-discipline while also using physical activity as an outlet to reduce excess energy.
Canada’s Best Karate has an article titled “How Karate Helps Children Manage ADD/ADHD” which details all the ways in which karate is excellent for children with neurodivergent learning styles: https://canadasbestkarate.ca/how-karate-helps-
children-manage-add-adhd/
Canada’s Best Karate has an article titled “How Karate Helps Children Manage ADD/ADHD” which details all the ways in which karate is excellent for children with neurodivergent learning styles: https://canadasbestkarate.ca/how-karate-helps-
children-manage-add-adhd/
What does a typical class involve?
Our classes typically include the following
-Bowing at the start and end of class to show respect
-Warm up and cool down at the beginning and end of class
-Kihon practice to learn the basic techniques and learn the foundation of Goju Ryu Karate
-Kata and bunkai – techniques are put together in set sequences to understand how these movements can be applied effectively
-Kumite (sparring) – sport and traditional styles are explored
-Kids’ classes involve age appropriate drills and games
-Adequate water breaks!
-Bowing at the start and end of class to show respect
-Warm up and cool down at the beginning and end of class
-Kihon practice to learn the basic techniques and learn the foundation of Goju Ryu Karate
-Kata and bunkai – techniques are put together in set sequences to understand how these movements can be applied effectively
-Kumite (sparring) – sport and traditional styles are explored
-Kids’ classes involve age appropriate drills and games
-Adequate water breaks!
What happens if I miss a class?
It happens to the best of us. We appreciate if you let us know ahead of a scheduled absence; you can always catch up!
When can I register for a karate program?
You can register for our programs at any time throughout the year. You can start in the beginners’ class at any time and all of our classes are structured so that you won’t feel left behind. Private lessons are useful to help us get to know you and your goals and make sure that we’re doing our part in training you for success!
Will karate improve my child’s academics?
Karate certainly has the potential to improve your child’s performance at school as a result of its focus on self-discipline, focus, respect, rote and repetition, breaking sequences down into manageable chunks, and individual achievement. We celebrate all of our students’ achievements during our attendance parties and end of the year awards ceremony.
Our Covid-19 Response
Please do not come to the dojo if you feel unwell, if your temperature exceeds 38C, or you have been potentially exposed to COVID-19.