 But remember that karate is not only karate -- it is life. -Master Gichin Funakoshi, founder of Shotokan Karate Our classes teach traditional Shotokan basics, kata (forms), kumite (sparring) and kobudo (weapons). Kata is a set sequence of basic karate moves organized into a pre-arranged fight against imaginary opponents. It consists of kicks, punches, sweeps, strikes, blocks and throws which become increasingly more difficult and sophisticated as a student progresses through the belt rankings. Kumite is the practical application of kata to real opponents. Students may begin sparring classes when they achieve the rank of yellow belt. Kobudo is the use of a weapon applied in a kata sequence. Pride Dojo teaches two weapons, the bo and Kai-bo. Pre-Karate 4 years of age Students will learn how to follow instruction, develop balance, coordination, strength and concentration through appropriate game playing. They will be taught listening skills and will gain self-confidence through creative activities, while engaging in a fun and exciting environment. Youth Karate 5-12 years of age Students will improve coordination, power of concentration, and balance while learning kata and sparring actions. Continued growth in self-esteem and confidence building, as students broaden their abilities and knowledge of the martial art. The skills obtained in this class will help enhance your childs' abilities in school, sports, and other outside activities. Adult and Teen Karate Training in karate offers many benefits to becoming a whole individual. Self-defense skills, physical fitness, mental as well as physical challenges, and a connection to others in this age group are principal goals at this level. Karate training is an excellent means to keeping your mind-body connection and keeping multi-tasking skills sharp and focused. It releases tension, improves balance and agility and improves both health of mind and body. This class is designed for any age and any level of physical fitness. Belt Promotion Colored belt ranks are used in karate to indicate experience, knowledge and seniority. Students begin as a white belt and advance through yellow, orange, blue, green, low purple, high purple, brown and black belt. After achieving a first level black belt, Shodan, students continue to progress as a Dan. Typically students earn Shodan in 10-12 years. Each rank is associated with certain kata(s), and sparring techniques that need to be perfected in order to pass to the next rank. A student must be invited by a Sensei to test for the next rank, which may occur a few times a year in the lower ranks, and only 1-2 times a year for higher ranks. 
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