This page is intended for beginners and people who are not familiar with Karate and would like to learn a little more about JKA Karate and our organisation, the JKA Australia.

This guide will answer some of your questions but feel free to contact your closest representative if you have specific questions.

What is Karate?

Karate means ‘Empty hand’ and is a traditional Japanese system of self-defence that employs blocks, punches, kicks, strikes, body evasion and occasional throws. It is an effective means of protecting oneself, but it also offers many other benefits such as:

> Aerobic conditioning

> Strengthens the body

> Strengthens the body

> Provides an outlet for stress

> Teaches children respect and discipline

JKA Karate training can be broken into 3 areas of practice as follows:

Kihon – Basic or fundamental training in all movements

Kata – Pre-determined patterns of kihon movements

Kumite – Sparring

What is Shotokan?

Shotokan is the name of the style or system of karate practiced by JKA Australia. It literally means ‘House of Shoto’ which was our founder, Funakoshi Gichin Shihan’s calligraphy pen name and became the name of the first official dojo in Tokyo in 1939.

Who are the JKA?

The Japan Karate Association (JKA) are the World’s foremost authority on Karate. With a vast membership in over 100 countries, the JKA is the world’s largest and most prestigious karate organisation.

JKA Australia is a member of this global organisation and was established by the late Nishimura Takaatsu Shihan 7th Dan, JKA.

Benefits of Karate

Karate benefits the practitioner in many ways, both physical and mental. It increases stamina and flexibility, as well as providing an outlet for stress.

These changes take time so be patient; over time you will see positive changes to your physical condition as well as an improved state of mind.

In order to improve at karate or for that matter any physical activity, practice is required. It is recommended that you try to attend training at least twice a week if possible. As with any activity, the greater the effort put in, the better the result achieved. We would like you to remember that not everyone is in the same shape or has the same ability, so it is important to start slowly and increase your effort as your condition improves and knowledge grows.

New members often feel awkward, shy, stiff and confused. However, this is very normal as Karate takes time to learn. Even very good athletes find it difficult at first. We follow the system laid out by the Japan Karate Association (JKA) HQ in Tokyo, Japan which is a very systematic, scientific approach to learning karate. Rest assured that you can and will progress with time and commitment then you will see positive results.

Our adult students tell us that karate improves sleep and increases energy. It offers a unique challenge not found in gyms. It is not just getting fit, but each level presents opportunities to learn and develop new skills.

Parents tell us their children gain confidence and perform better in school.

Above all, enjoy your training!

---