Basic Training Structure for Karate Classes
For both children and adult karate classes, a typical training session begins with a warm-up and stretching. Students should arrive early, change promptly into their gi, and wait quietly at the edge of the dojo.
Dojo etiquette must be observed at all times. Bow before entering and upon leaving the dojo, as this practice reinforces the spirit of respect and discipline.
When class begins, the sensei will call everyone to line up. Higher-ranked students stand on the left side of the dojo (when facing the instructor), with all other students lining up beside them. Smaller students should position themselves at the front to ensure a clear view of the sensei and any demonstrated techniques.
The sensei will kneel first, followed by the senpai calling “seiza” for everyone to kneel. Upon the command “rei,” all students will bow together as a sign of respect. The warm-up will then commence, led by the sensei or, at their invitation, the senpai.
Warm up
Warming up is an essential part of the class, as it prepares the muscles and joints while increasing cardiovascular activity to enhance performance. Skipping a proper warm-up significantly raises the risk of injuries such as muscle strains, cramps, or other physical setbacks.
A typical warm-up lasts between 10 to 15 minutes. If you arrive late, it is crucial to perform stretching exercises before entering the dojo to minimize the risk of injury. Stretches target various parts of the body, including arm stretches, trunk stretches, side stretches, leg swings, neck rolls, push-ups, sit-ups, and more.
While punctuality is encouraged, if you must arrive late, please ensure you have completed a thorough warm-up before joining the class.
Kihon – Basic Techniques
The lesson begins with fundamental punching and kicking techniques, emphasizing proper hip movement, stance alignment, blocking methods, and footwork positioning. In some sessions, these techniques are progressively developed and later applied in partner exercises during kumite or explored further through kata practice.
The instructor tailors the level of instruction to suit the students in attendance. For instance, beginner classes focus on basic punches, kicks, blocks, and stances, while intermediate and advanced lessons incorporate more complex techniques and movements to refine skill and precision.
Kumite – Fighting
Kumite is practiced at various levels to suit the experience of each student. Beginners engage in basic, non-contact kumite with either a fellow beginner or a higher-ranked partner who adjusts their technique accordingly. This stage focuses on fundamental punching, kicking, and corresponding blocking, reinforcing the techniques introduced earlier in class.
For higher grades, kumite follows a similar progression but will advance to semi-free and freestyle movements between partners. This allows students to develop key skills such as timing, countering, and adaptive responses in a controlled setting.
Kata – “Form”
Kata is a structured sequence of movements that emphasize various aspects such as breathing, balance, and speed. It simulates encounters with multiple imaginary attackers from different directions, incorporating specific defensive and offensive techniques. Kata is generally categorized into basic and advanced levels based on the student's proficiency. Basic techniques are often practiced during warm-ups or fundamental training sessions and later integrated into the kata portion of the lesson.
Warm down
Just as warming up at the beginning of a lesson is essential, cooling down before the end is equally important. A few simple stretching exercises, possibly combined with sit-ups or push-ups, help conclude the class.
To finish, the instructor will ask everyone to line up, just as at the start of the lesson, with higher grades at the front. Upon the command for Seiza, the instructor will kneel facing the front of the dojo, with the rest of the class following suit. The senpai will then recite the dojo kun, which the class repeats. Next, the senpai will call out "Shomen ni – rei" (bow to the spirit of the dojo), followed by "Sensei – rei" (bow to the instructor) as the sensei turns to face the class. Finally, "Otagani – rei" (bow to each other) is called, after which the sensei bows to the class and departs.
Higher grades will stand first, bow to the class, and then be followed by the remaining students. Before leaving, please ensure you have collected all your belongings from the changing facilities and dojo. As a final gesture of respect, remember to bow before exiting the dojo.
