FAQS

What should I wear, and do I need a karate uniform? (aka Gi)?

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• An athletic t-shirt and shorts/jogging pants are all you need. No, a karate uniform is not required right away. We recommend you complete the first session, and decide at that point if you would like to invest in a uniform. Uniforms can be purchased at the dojo.

 

Can I wear a uniform from another dojo?

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• Yes, but only for the first session. It is expected if you continue on, our club uniform will be used. 

 

What are the belt ranks?

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• There are 9 belts which include White, ½ Yellow, Yellow, Orange, Green, Blue, Red, Brown, and Black. 

 

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When will I be tested for the next belt rank?

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• Belt testing will be determined by the skill, attitude and ability of each student.

• There is no pre-determined schedule for when a student is tested.

 

Are there competitions?

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• Yes, there is a lot of competition in and around Alberta. There are also opportunities to compete nationally and internationally.

• Our dojo hosts the annual Calgary Open Martial Arts Championships.

 

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Common Terminology

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• Sensei – Black belt instructor that teaches Karate

• Dojo – Place of training for Karate

• Gi – Karate uniform

• Obi – Karate belt

• Sempai - An assistant instructor that is not yet a Sensei

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What is the typical class structure?

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• A typical one-hour class includes a bow-in, warm-up, stretching, technique demonstrations, practice, and a bow-out. 

 

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How do I perform the bow?

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• Sitting up straight with your eyes open, the instructor will bow to the class and say Shomi NiRei. The class will bow back twice: once for Shomi Ni Rei and once for Sensei Ni Rei.

• Japanese translation for Shomi Ni Rei during bow in:

  • ​Respect for your style of training, Zen Karate. Respect for your place of training, the Dojo. Respect for your classmates.

• Japanese translation for Sensei Ni Rei during bow in:

  • ​Respect for your Sensei

 

 

What are the Dojo rules and etiquette?

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• Students will bow upon entering/leaving the dojo area.

• All black belts will be referred to as "Sensei".

• Higher belts will assist lower belts, lower belts will follow the instructions of higher belts.

• Higher belts will not instruct lower belts in techniques above their next belt requirements.

• No profanity, horseplay or loud talking is permitted in the dojo.

• No smoking or food allowed in the dojo.

• Students will train in a clean uniform at all times.

• Students will inform head instructor immediately of any self-defense situation outside the dojo and of its nature.

• No displays or demonstrations allowed outside the dojo without the express permission of the head instructor.