Whilst the roots of Karate stretch back as far as 2000 B.C.,
present day students will probably be most interested in the
development of the Art during this century. It is said that
in the early 1900's Karate was introduced into mainland Japan
from the island of Okinawa by Gishin Funikowshi. From Japan
the art of Karate has spread throughout the world until it
has become one of the world's great sports.
Karate as a Martial Art combines smooth, flowing, evasive
movements with sudden hand strikes. In Karate the emphasis
is on power. With its vast range of kicks, hand strikes
and escape techniques Karate covers a broad spectrum of
self defence and, as such, has an obvious attraction for
men, women and children of all ages.
Some of the benefits that can be derived from the regular
practice of Karate, by people of all ages, regardless of
sex, are:-
The promotion of physical fitness
A deeper mental awareness and self control
A practical method of self defence
A sense of respect towards, and an understanding of oneself
and others
A strong social aspect where many friendships can be made.
Many different styles of Karate are practised throughout
the world. The style practised by this Club and Association
is Full Contact Karate, which we believe to be the most effective
of all styles available. In Full Contact Karate the student
is able to participate in realistic combat , without the
fear of injury, since full safety equipment is used during
sparring. Full Contact Karate probably employs more kicking
techniques than any other Martial Art. For free sparring
the development of snap power in both kicking and punching
is important, although naturally many other more powerful
kicking and punching techniques are used. Release holds -
throws - and sweeps - are other important aspects of Full
Contact Karate training.
The instructors teaching in an WCKA club are all Black Belts
and are the finest available. They are, without exception,
professional, highly trained and have all had many years
experience in the Martial Arts. Amongst them are to be
found World, European and British Champions! Consequently
when you enrol at an WCKA club you can be sure of first
class instruction.
Most people take up Karate for self defence purposes. We
recognise this and teach practical self defence from the
first lesson. Even people who think that they can defend
themselves usually cannot! The majority of law abiding
citizens would not be able to deal with a potential violent
situation, so what chance would they have against the mugger,
the rapist or even a football hooligan? It is difficult
to put a time factor on how long proficiency takes as everyone
has a different potential to learn. We have found from
past experience that after six months or so training most
students are well on their way to achieving a good sound
knowledge of self defence.
One class per week is ample as a beginner, other classes
are available for those who wish to practice more often.
You choose one of three style of karate suits, which can
be purchased from your instructor. No other special clothing
is needed to get started.
The majority of new students of all ages and of both sexes
are unfit. The instructor recognises this and will treat
you as such.
Karate is one of the best recreational pursuits that a child
can practice. With the high degree of discipline in the
class, the child will learn to accept responsibilities,
become more aware and self confident without being bigheaded.
Add this to the fitness and self defence benefits and you
can see why so many parents enrol their children into Karate
classes. We usually take children in classes from the age
of 7 years upwards.
Without exception, yes! Most women today are well aware of
the need to look after themselves. Karate is unique in
helping to make one aware of oneself. Karate is high on
aerobic fitness so one can achieve good body tone as well
as learning to defend oneself. Karate has many benefits,
as more and more women are finding out.
In our system we do not emphasis on wood and brick breaking.
We concentrate on practical self defence.
Very few students want to enter competitions, but if any
do they are free to do so.
The club secretary will give you an application form to fill
out and will advise you about the costs, the club training
nights and class times, etc. If you have any further questions
the secretary will help. As regards to technical questions
it is best to ask the instructor.
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