Welcome to the Lewisham Shotokan Karate Centre

Karate is a martial art and system of self-defence that originated hundreds of years ago in Okinawa, but was greatly influenced by an even older tradition from China. Literally, karate means empty hand, its practitioners use no weapons to attack and defend, but only the hands, feet, and body. Through hard training and practice, karate develops not only the body but also the mind and character.

What is the purpose and goal of karate?

The ultimate purpose of karate is not physical prowess or the winning of matches, but the development of balance, harmony and spiritual and physical strength through strict, disciplined training.

What is the JKA?

The Japan Karate Association (JKA), is the worlds largest and most prestigious karate organization. Their mission is to promote the way of karate throughout the world, while ensuring that it remains true to the philosophical precepts since establishment of the JKA in 1949.

What sort of karate does the JKA teach?

The JKA is the generally-recognized heir to the Shotokan karate tradition as developed by Supreme Master Funakoshi Gichin, and teaches a specially-refined form of Shotokan style karate.

What is the Shotokan style of karate?

Shotokan karate is one of the most widely practiced forms of karate in the world today, and one of the most traditional. Introduced to Japan from Okinawa by Supreme Master Funakoshi Gichin, Shotokan puts heavy focus on kihon (basic techniques), kata (forms), and kumite (sparring) to develop a range of powerful and dynamic techniques.

Can anyone practice karate?

Yes! The only real requirement is a disciplined commitment to work hard and train patiently. As long as that commitment is there, karate is for everyoneregardless of age, sex, or ethnic background. There is no age limit, but recommend that only children above 7 years old can attend.

Do I need to be in excellent physical shape to start karate?

Not really. Since karate will gradually improve your fitness as you progress, your starting point is less important than the effort you put into it along the way. Our traditional focus on basic techniques and on correct form make it easy for beginners to train together with experienced individuals yet still progress at their own level of fitness and expertise. If you are less fit, your progress at the start will simply be more moderate; as your fitness improves, so will the pace at which you advance.

What is expected of me if I join?

You are expected to be committed to your karate training, and to attend classes on a regular basis.
You are expected to give your karate training your maximum effort, and to work hard during practice.
You are expected to demonstrate the respect, humility and courtesy upon which karates long-standing tradition is founded.
You are expected to pay your membership dues and other fees.

How long does it take to learn karate?

Its really up to you. The more you practice, the more you will improve. There is no limit to mastering karate, no final destination at which you can arrive. There are benchmarks along the way however. A student with no prior training joins the JKA as 9th Kyu, and is eligible to take ranking examinations every 3-4 months of training. Since there are 9 examinations you must pass to attain a black belt, the 1st Dan requires a minimum three years of diligent training. It takes several years to attain each subsequent Dan. At these higher levels, you will see that karate is not just something to be learned, but something to be lived. And that takes a lifetime.

Do I have to wear a karate uniform?

Eventually, yes. Karate uniforms (Gi) are available through your instructor.

Lewisham Shotokan Karate Centre 2006