Beginners

I'm interested, but what do I do next? - Contact SSSK by phone or email or just turn up 15 minutes before a training session and talk to the instructor about joining the class

What do I wear? - Later you will probably want a Karate suit (Gi) but for now wear a loose top and some loose tracksuit bottoms

How much will it cost? - See our Fees page for costs, remember the first lesson is always free!

What about safety and safe guarding? - Studying Karate, like other martial arts by their very nature is not altogether risk free. SSSK takes all reasonable care to teach Karate responsibly and your SSSK instructor is fully insured and DBS (CRB) checked.

My kids do Karate, am I too old to join them? - Definitely not, training with your kids is a great and rewarding experience - SSSK positively encourages families to train together.

Are there any age restrictions? - SSSK was initially set up to to provide Karate instruction to 11 year olds and above. We do accomodate younger students especially if they are training as part of a family group. Please contact SSSK to discuss your specific requirements.

What are the lessons like? - Lessons are planned to focus on the the three Ks of Karate
1) Kihon - Basic moves
2) Kata - A preset sequence of moves against imaginary opponents
3) Kumite - Where Karate-ka practice attacks, blocks and counter attacks with an opponant

How is my progress measured? - Grading tests are held regularly (roughly every 3 months) at which you can assess how much progress you have made through regular training in your Karate classes

What do the belt colours mean? - The belt colours denote different grades starting with White and a beginner then progresses through Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Purple, Purple and White, Brown, Brown and White, then Black (Shodan)

Do I have to understand Japanese to start? - No, however one of the benefits of studying Karate is that you will pick up some Japanese as you continue to train.

Are there any learning aids on the website? - Yes you access the Kata (forms) and Kumite (sparring) sections from the main menu that include helpful videos. Additionally the is a Japanese TERMINOLOGY section together with some useful MIND MAPS that group actions logically.