FAQ PAGES
Click on the links below to download a Frequently Asked Questions page for American Karate-Do Shotokai in General, or for the particular club you are interested in. Below the links you will find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about American KDS philosophy and practice...
Click Here to Download the Official AKDS FAQ
BYU Club FAQs
Salt Lake City Club FAQs
Idaho Falls Club FAQs
Louisiana Club FAQs
New Jersey Club FAQs
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: How is AKDS different/similar to other martial arts?
A: Like many other styles, Karate-Do Shotokai uses kicks, punches, blocks, and other self defense techniques. There are, however, differences in the way these techniques are employed. In particular, we emphasize more relaxed and fluid movements while maintaining necessary speed and penetration. Training courses and practice sessions are held regularly—come join us and experience the difference for yourself!
Q: What is your focus?
A: Self defense. In the process one can also gain flexibility, strength, relaxation, control, skill, and awareness.
Q: What do you wear to practice?
A: A white uniform called a ‘gi’ (‘gee’ with a ‘g’ as in 'go') and colored ranking belts similar to other martial arts. Until you have a gi, loose pants and a t-shirt are fine. Do not wear jeans, shorts, watches, rings, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, etc.
Q: How can I buy a gi or other equipment?
A: Discounted orders are placed for AKDS members on a regular basis. Your instructor can assist with sizes and other questions.
Q: What is a typical practice session like?
A: An average session lasts two hours and has three main parts:
- Kata: Set patterns of techniques used to gain focus, relaxed body condition, and to develop proper musculoskeletal control;
- Kihon: Various exercises demonstrated and practiced with numerous partners to develop fluidity, relationship, timing, distance, focus, power, speed, placement, etc.
- Kumite: Applied exercises in a more free and realistic setting for testing ones ability.
Q: Do you train with weapons?
A: Yes, some. To aid in training and the development of proper body condition we use the bo (staff) and the bokken (wooden practice sword).
Q: What about tournaments and competition?
A: We do not participate in tournaments/competition because the goals of such activities differ from those of self defense. Instead of training ‘against opponents’ for points, we train ‘with partners’ in order to understand the workings of the human body and use that knowledge for self-defense (see mission statement).
Q: Do you wear any special protective gear?
A: No. We practice barefoot, on smooth, hard surfaces, and do not wear protective gear to avoid the unrealistic distances and timings it creates.
Q: Is practice safe?
A: Yes, very. Because experience and abilities are developed over time in controlled but focused exercises, participants progress in a safe, relaxed setting. The only injuries one is likely to incur are aching muscles and minor bumps and bruises. All participants must have proof of insurance to practice.
Q: Do you shout when you attack?
A: No. We develop methods of releasing explosive energy without the tensing effects created by the ‘kiai.’
Q: What karate etiquette do you follow?
A: Following are some basic precepts we adhere to:
- bowing as one enters or leaves the dojo (training hall) is accepted, but not required;
- running off to get a drink during a practice exercise is not appropriate—opportunities to do so will be provided;
- changing the exercise or stopping to talk or rest during a practice exercise is not appropriate—just keep moving!;
- fingernails and toenails should be trimmed;
- asking questions after demonstrations and during practice for understanding is acceptable and encouraged;
- general idle chatter is not only rude, but dangerous as it interferes with comprehending practice exercises;
- partners bow to one another at the end of each training exercise before switching partners.
Q: What does it cost?
A: AKDS is an official 501c3 non-profit organization created for the furthering of karate-do and to improve local communities. No AKDS instructors or administrators are paid, but freely donate their time and expertise. Annual AKDS membership fees, as well as local club dues, are collected to cover operating and travel costs, certificates, equipment, etc.
Q: What about age, gender and experience?
A: Club membership is open to both men and women age 18 years and up, with a few AKDS classes for children in certain areas. Because all exercises are based on repeated, simple, true principles of body mechanics, one can start training with any club at any time regardless of ability or prior experience.
Q: Where can I get more info?
A: The following websites and books are good sources of information on Harada Sensei’s methods and philosophy:
- www.karatedoshotokai.com;
- www.shotokai.org;
- Karate Master: The Life and Times of Mitsusuke Harada, by Dr. Clive Layton;
- Reminiscences, by Dr. Clive Layton;
- The Voice of the Mountain Dragon: Practising with Harada Sensei, by Bernard Mathieu.
Q: Will American KDS join our martial arts cooperative group and share/adopt practice methods?
A: In KDS practice you will often catch glimpses of techniques from other styles like Aikido and Kendo--this is because we look for martial truths where ever they are found. Because Harada Sensei's unique philosophy and training methods are based on true principles of body mechanics and the laws of physics, exercises are being developed constantly in an effort to reach greater heights, earlier, while still maintaining quality practice. Such lofty ideals must keep the object of pure self-defense always in view. Attempting to meld with other styles that have differing goals is not a focus of Karate-Do Shotokai.
Q: Is there a club in my area?
A: Go to the CLUBS & LINKS page to find out!
