Q: What type of Karate do we practice?

International Shotokan Karate Federation (ISKF)The ISKF is a traditional Shotokan Karate organization, founded by Master Teruyuki Okazaki, who studied directly under Master Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of Shotokan Karate.The ISKF is a non-profit organization that strives to uphold the integrity and goals of Master Funakoshi, which includes following the guidelines and principles set forth by the Dojo Kun and Niju Kun.The ISKF is rich in tradition, but continuously moves forward to bring all countriestogether to follow these same guidelines.

Question 1

What is Karate?

Accepted Answer

The literal translation of karate is "empty hand" "Kara" is empty and "te" is hand.​Karate is a style of martial art that utilizes the use of the body for protection without the aid of weapons or tools, through  purposeful striking and blocking.True dedication to Karate is lifelong, inside and outside of the dojo (practice space).Practice includes several aspects such as:​1) Kihon (Basic techniques which are the building blocks on which all other training is based)2) Kata (coordinated series of karate techniques in a pre-set pattern and series of forms3) Kumite (sparring or training methods to apply karate techniques against one or more opponents).

Question 2

Who should try Karate?

Accepted Answer

Everyone! Karate training helps increase physical fitness, confidence, improved motor skills, flexibility, speed, concentration, discipline and personal safety

Question 3

What type of Karate do we practice?

Accepted Answer

International Shotokan Karate Federation (ISKF)​The ISKF is a traditional Shotokan Karate organization, founded by Master Teruyuki Okazaki, who studied directly under Master Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of Shotokan Karate.The ISKF is a non-profit organization that strives to uphold the integrity and goals of Master Funakoshi, which includes following the guidelines and principles set forth by the Dojo Kun and Niju Kun.The ISKF is rich in tradition, but continuously moves forward to bring all countriestogether to follow these same guidelines.

Question 4

What do the different color belts mean?

Accepted Answer

The colour of each belt corresponds to the level of experience and ability of the individual wearing it. Everyone begins wearing a white belt. From white they progress through the respective levels of yellow, orange, green, purple, brown and black.The Japanese term kyu to refer to the coloured belts and dan to refer to black belts.

Question 5

How long does it take to receive a black belt?

Accepted Answer

On average it takes 4 -5 years to reach Shodan (lowest level of black belt), however many factors such as age, dedication and attitude can influence this rough timeline

Question 6

What is being recited at the end of every class?

Accepted Answer

The Dojo Kun is taken from Funakoshi's Twenty Guiding Principles and is often recited in unison at the end of the class to remind students to be the best they can be both in and out of training.​English VersionSeek Perfection of Character, Be Faithful, Endeavor to Excel, Respect Others, Refrain from Violent Behavior.​Japanese Versionhitotsu, jinkaku kansei ni tsutomeru koto. hitotsu, makoto no michi wo mamoru koto. hitotsu, doryoku no seishin wo yashinau koto. hitotsu, reigi wo omonzuru koto. hitotsu, kekki no yū wo imashimuru koto