Starting something new at any age can be quite daunting but it doesn’t have to be! Get a better understanding of what you’re getting yourself into when entering your first karate class:
Karate is a martial art, not a sport
While Karate is great for the body and keeps you physically active, it has quite the history and does wonders the mind and soul.
Martial arts were developed as a system of fighting techniques to be used on a battlefield. Karate was originally designed for civilians to defend against trained soldiers. This utilized the body (open handed techniques as well as weaponry). The practice of martial arts is quite calming as well. Practicing kata (or forms) can clear the mind and actively lower stress levels.
Karate can be right for everyone! Short, tall, big or small!
Contrary to popular belief, not everyone who takes karate is an action super-star. Realistically looking at it, there is a significant diversity in the students you will see in your class.
Regardless of your height, weight or gender, self-defence is an accessible tool for anyone willing to learn. Bringing me to my next point…
It is super important to keep an open mind and be confident in yourself Stop saying “I can’t do that”, “I don’t want to look foolish when trying that” and “my body doesn’t bend that way”. When you limit yourself in your mind, you do actually limit yourself on the outside as well.
If you’re wanting to get the most out of your studies, you need to leave your negative thoughts outside of the dojo. Learn what your sensei is teaching you and just focus on it. Don’t worry about how it looks or if you have difficulties at first. Everyone must start somewhere and no, you’re not expected to do a jumping vertical roundhouse kick on your first class (If you could though, wouldn’t that be pretty cool?).
It gets better with time and practice. You’ll find that whether you’ve just started out or you’re a Sensei, Karate is an ongoing learning process.
You will absolutely get some bruises throughout your study of Karate
There really is no way around this part. Your class is full of other human bodies going in different directions and practicing concepts that involve expansion, contraction and the expelling of energy.
Needless to say, while everyone practices safety within the dojo, accidents happen. Please expect that there is some contact during kumite (sparring).
Karate can be a lot of work and you can work up quite an appetite and thirst!
Attending a class every once and a while won’t exactly cut it. If you’re wanting to see real results in your kata, your kumite and in yourself, practice and dedication are crucial key items. Karate isn’t a hobby – rather, it’s a lifestyle. This can also affect your eating habits.
When you’re practicing karate, your body is actively working to enhance your cardio, strength and flexibility. When you’re in class learning new techniques, that can distract you from how hard you’re working your body. Make sure that you are properly nourishing your body! Stay hydrated!
Always come prepared
Just like in school or work, the right equipment is important for “getting the job done” and the protection of yourself and as well as others. Karate is no different.
When you first start out, make sure that you’re wearing clothing that you can be comfortable in. A t-shirt and sweat pants are great for a first class. Your sensei will be able to let you know where to go get your Gi (uniform). A place I would suggest looking into is Mikado in Vancouver (https://mikadomartialarts.com/) – they have a lot to choose from and friendly staff that will help you find whatever you’re looking for.
Other items that are required for karate class would be sparring gear for kumite. This includes: gloves, foot pads and a mouthguard. Other suggestions would be head gear, shin pads (because yes, clashing and uncontrolled techniques do happen and yes, it does hurt the shins) and for some, a groin protector (again, clashing and uncontrolled techniques happens).
Pro-tip: Should you wish to compete in a tournament once you’re up to it, make sure to investigate the requirements of the tournament you’re attending. Sometimes there are equipment requirements for certain age groups. and last but not least…
Expect that when you join karate, you’ve just become a part of a family, not just an exercise club. One of the most important pieces that I have found since joining karate is the sense of community and family that I have found within the dojo.
The Senseis and other students in your class will witness you falling down, making errors (in my case, performing your kata in the completely wrong direction and nervously giggling when I clue in…) and trying your hardest. Keep in mind they are not there to judge you, they are there to help you do your best and continuously improve. They have all started off where you have.
If you have other questions when you start off, make sure to reach out to your sensei. They’re well equipped to answer anything you may wish to know! And they’re super friendly people 😊
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