What is Karate Do?
Karate Do literally means 'the Way of the Empty Hand'. An art form that originated in the 18th century in Okinawa (an island off the coast of China), heavily influenced by the Martial traditions of China. During the period of around 1784 and 1903 Karate Do evolved in three areas of Okinawa - Shuri, Naha and Tomari. It was here that the creation of styles were founded and later formed the basis of Modern Karate i.e. Shotokan, Goju Ryu, Wado Ryu and Shito Ryu.

What is the cost of a lesson?

The cost of a lesson are:

• 4 per lesson for Juniors (up to the age of 16) or 7 for two lessons.
• 5 for students (16 and over)
• 7 for Adults (or 25 if paid on a monthly basis)

• Adults = 30 annual membership
• Juniors = 21 (6-16)

Where do I get the uniform from?
We supply the gis using our wholesale supplier which ensures a cheaper cost for you as oppose to you going to a martial arts or sports shop. Gis can cost anything from 15 - 40 depending on the size and weight of the cotton used.

What can I expect from a typical Karate lesson? I haven't done anything like this before, how will I be supported?
Children's Class - Your child will be placed in the lesson for beginners and guided through the basic stances, blocks, punches and kicks. Your child will receive tuition from an experienced teacher that will ensure a one to one approach along with other beginner students. As a student centred school the lesson is differentiated to their ability. We also encourage parents to stay and watch the lesson so that you can see the progress your child makes as well as having the opportunity to speak to your child's teacher. At Poon Dojo we believe in establishing a partnership with our parents to provide what is best for your child. Adult's Class - At Poon Dojo we believe in a student centred approach which means that you will receive individual attention from our experienced teachers. You will be given the opportunity to ask questions and most importantly the time to absorb what is being taught. Our Teachers are approachable and realistic in what is imparted within a session. You will also be supported by the friendly community of students that train at the School.

What style of Karate do you practice?
At Poon Dojo we practice a classical form of Karate- Ko-Ryu Karate Do which owes its roots to Classical Okinawan Karate. Specifically, to the Shuri Te tradition (Shorin) as well as to the Naha tradition. This is reflected in the School's approach to kata and the realistic applications that are taught. Other classical practices such as the two person drills are also incorporated into every lesson.

Are you insured and recognised?
Yes, Poon Dojo is a Professional Body which ensures that all Teachers are qualified and hold the appropriate Martial Arts insurance as well as providing 'member to member' insurance.

Are your grades recognised?
Yes, all grades by the Senior Teachers are recognised by ACMA. Grades and lineages of the Senior Teachers of the School can be traced back to Japan (Japan's leading Martial Arts Organisation - The Dai Nippon Butoku Kai) and Okinawa -Ryu Ryu Ko of the Goju Ryu genealogy.

Can I achieve a black belt, what about gradings?
We encourage our students to look at the deeper aspects of the Art as oppose to belt chasing. However, informal assessments take place at each lesson and the teaching staff hold regular discussions upon the progress of each individual. Formal assessments known as 'gradings' take place every four months where students are assessed upon the syllabus requirements. For those that continue to train with us they will be formally assessed and within 5-7 years a black belt grade can be awarded.

Do you enter competitions?
No, we believe in continuing the traditions of the Classical arts as well as imparting Karate that will work in a real life scenario as oppose to the competitive arena.

Can I watch my child during the lesson?
Yes, we encourage parents to stay and watch the lesson so that you can see the progress your child makes as well as having the opportunity to speak to your child's teacher. At Poon Dojo we believe in establishing and working in partnership with our parents to provide what is best for your child.

Do you teach weaponry?
Yes, this is taught to our advanced students only