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Like any other activity the more you put into it, the more you will get out. Although we will guide your training, how much you do will decide your path. The amount of available time will also be a factor. For some this is the only activity they do so they will have more time to practice. For others homework, sports, kids and other activities will take up much of their free time. If you spend the time and work hard, odds are you will progress accordingly. If your time is limited a slower but steady pace is better then not training at all.

There are 3 types of contact: full contact, no contact and controlled contact. We train with controlled contact. It is my belief that it is better for students to have the practical experience of a fight (both being in the fight as well as how it feels to get hit) in a controlled situation. This takes away the shock of being hit for the first time and it allows students to become more familiar with what actual physical contact feels like.

Sparring can be an emotional thing. Some people really like it while others really do not. I like to start those who have a harder time with it slower. It is more important to ease a person in then lose then by forcing it. I start all students off with basic technique and kumite (1 step sparring) consisting of a block and counter. The same kumite set is done multiple times and is designed to create a reaction. The next step is to spar slowly. This allows the student to practice their techniques in a non-threatening situation. For those having a hard time with sparring I continue to keep things slow and non-threatening until they work through it. I always encourage any student having a hard time with sparring to come and talk to me. I usually can help them work through it.

I do not hold any formal testing of students. I prefer to keep constant track of every student instead of asking for a one-time pass or fail test. Each class students are instructed on the techniques needed to earn their next promotion. At the end of each class students know what they need to practice. Once a student learns and demonstrates the techniques for their next promotion they are promoted.

The time it takes to get to black belt is different for every student. Students will learn and move at their own pace. How fast you move will be affected by; how many classes you attend, how much you practice at home, if you have prior experience, your self-discipline and many other factors.

Once you have reached black belt, you have taken your first big step. You now have a solid base of techniques and ability to build on. That base is only the beginning though. Your ability and understanding of karate will continue to grow and become better. Hopefully your training will lead you to a trip to Okinawa to train with Grandmaster Eizo Shimabukuro. It will be an experience you will never forget.

I do not require any student to sign a contract. I do not believe karate is an activity to lock someone into doing. There are times when things happen in your life which require you to take some time off. It could also be the nerves or emotions of physical contact (sparring). No matter what the reason I prefer to keep my door open allowing students to train when they can, take a break when needed and always welcome them back when they are ready to return.