JAPAN KARATE ASSOCIATION of BROOKLYN

Karate-Do and Classes at JKA Brooklyn

At JKA Brooklyn, we practice Traditional Japanese Shotokan Karate-Do.

“The ultimate aim of the art of karate lies not in victory or defeat, but in the perfection of the character of its participant.”

Gichin Funakoshi, Father of Shotokan Karate

Dojo Kun

(Precepts Of Karate-Do)

Seek perfection of character.
Be faithful.
Endeavor.
Respect others.
Refrain from violent behavior.

What is “Do”?

“Do” is “the way.” Karate practice allows the participant to develop character and learn to live by following the “Dojo Kun.” It also develops both mental and physical stamina. However, it is very important that the student never give up, but persists, no matter what the situation may be. Without an earnest effort, without perseverance, the student will never understand the true spirit of Karate.

Typical Class

Karate practice consists of three major types of exercise:

KIHON (Basics)

The elementary building blocks of Karate are: stance, posture, coordinated body movement and concentration upon the opponent. These provide a sound foundation. If the basics are strong, it is easy to develop more advanced techniques.

KATA (Forms)

A pre-arranged sequence of techniques and movements simulating combat against multiple imaginary opponents. This specialized method of training is a rational extension of basics, offering situations in which certain attacks and defenses would be applicable. Kata is performed solo or in precision teams, and offers practice in combinations of techniques, focus and release of tension, breathing control, and rhythm. Each level of karate study has its prescribed kata which trains the student – mentally and physically – for the next, more advanced level.

KUMITE (Sparring)

As with kata, each level of training has its prescribed method of sparring, from the formal five or three-step sparring of the basic level (when the target and attacker/defender are pre-arranged), to free-sparring at the most advanced level (when the participants themselves act/react spontaneously with attacks/blocks, using timing, distance and strategy). But always, the attack is arrested just before body contact is made – which requires extreme body control and self-discipline.

Beginners

There is a One Month Beginners’ Course offered every month which meets three days per week for one hour. Upon completion of the Beginners’ Course the student may practice up to five classes per week, choosing from the intermediate and combination classes.

Dress Code

Beginners may practice in either loose, body-concealing clothing, such as sweats, or the traditional gi (karate uniform). A gi is mandatory for all other students. Tee-shirts may not be worn under the uniform; women students should have ties sewn into the collar to fasten the gi in front. Uniforms must be kept clean and in good repair.

The karate school sells uniforms and belts as a convenience to the students; gi prices start around $50.

Hair may be tied back with white hair-bands or headbands. For safety reasons, nails must be kept short and jewelry and watches removed before practice.

Examinations

Ranking examinations are held every three months and cover basics, kata and kumite appropriate for each level which will have been covered in class.

Class Rules

Students must be on time. Tardiness is disrespectful to the instructor and to your fellow students.
Uniforms must be clean and in good repair. Feet and hands must be clean, and toenails and fingernails must be kept short in order to avoid injury to you and to others. For the same reason no jewelry (rings, earrings, noserings, bracelets, necklaces, etc.) may be worn at any time.
No colored headbands are permitted, only white.
No powder is to be used in the dojo; tracking it onto the floor creates a hazard.
There is no eating or drinking in the dojo.
Female students must have sewn ties to fasten the uniform in the front. Tee-shirts are not a part of the uniform.

Download Registration Package

JKA Brooklyn Registration Package (pdf file – 333 kb)