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FAQs |
From what age do you accept students?
We start children from the age of 4 years.
What about older students, is there an upper age limit?
You are never too old to feel the benefits of karate training, It's a great way to stay fit and active, and of course learn self defence skills at the same time. We have a significant number of members in their 40's and 50's, some of who started at that age.
Do I have to be fit to start?
No. Your training will start at a very slow pace. As time goes by, your fitness level will increase gradually along with the pace of the class. If you are unsure as to your state of health with regard to taking part in physical exercise, please consult your doctor.
Do you have many women in the club?
We probably have more women in the Academy than a lot of clubs, in fact, three of our instructors are women.
How much does it cost?
Your first class is free. Thereafter, adults pay £35.00 per month for unlimited access to all our adult classes. There is also a once a week option of £21.50 per month for students with less training time available. Our children are split into two categories. The first is the Tiger Tots group aged 4 - 7 years. This age group pay £16.00 per month for once a week training, or £26.00 per month for the unlimited option. The 8 - 15 years age group pay £18 per month for once a week and £30.00 for unlimited.
Will I/my child get hurt?
Traditional karate is practised in a structured and disciplined way, which produces a very safe environment. Although when practising a martial art, the odd knock here and there is unavoidable, it is well documented that sports such as football are statistically far more dangerous.
Will your karate classes teach me self defence or help my child deal with bullying?
One of the greatest benefits for anyone learning karate is an increase in self-esteem and confidence. No one is taught how to beat anyone up, but new defensive skills together with newfound confidence can make you or your child less of a target. If you are attacked, your training will give you a much better chance of surviving intact.
To read how one of our members used his karate training in a real life attack click here
What about weapons?
Shotokan karate is an empty hand art, but in today's society it could be useful to have knowledge of knife defence. At the Academy we run regular special classes for adults dealing with knife defence using the system taught to Sensei Parrish by the renown close quarter fighting expert, Guru Bob Breen.
Will I be able to watch my child train?
Yes. Seating is available for anyone who would like to stay and watch the classes.
What should I wear to my first lesson?
To begin with, wear any loose fitting clothing such as tracksuit/jogging bottoms and a T-shirt. We train in bear feet.
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