Getting into Karate - Tilted Forum Project Discussion Community

Jinn · 06-16-2005, 12:25 PM

Working out has always seemed so pointless to me, because it doesn’t feel like I’m doing anything productive. Working out for no reason other than to lose weight never works, because I really don’t mind my 4 or 5 lb gut out the front of my belt that much. However, I would like to get into shape – and by that I mean being able to run, walk, and play sports more effectively. I’d also like to build up my arms so that they match my otherwise huge stature. I’m 6’ 6” but my arms are roughly the size of a 2 by 2 piece of lumber. I’m just under 200 lbs, and most of that is in my midsection. That said, I get incredibly bored of running on a treadmill and lifting weights and it provides no motivation to continue doing it. I feel like I’m wasting my time.. sooo.. the only solution I could think of was Karate.

I’ve loved Karate since I was a kid, and I read every Karate book I could get my hands on. At a young age my parents wouldn’t let me do Karate, because they thought it was too dangerous. Now that I’m old enough, I really would like to join a Dojo because I think it would give me (a) a damn good workout (b) a schedule that made it easier to do it regularly (c) make me better at self defense. The problem is, I don’t know how to go about doing this. Do you just walk in and ask to join? Do you need certain equipment or knowledge from the get-go? I also want to make sure it’s a more mature dojo, and I’m not practicing with 6-8 year olds. I live in Colorado Springs, and I can’t really find any websites that give me an “easy” way to figure these things out..

Anyone who’s done this or plans to do it or knows about it – any ideas?

ChrisJericho · 06-17-2005, 02:44 AM

Finding a dojo or style that fits you can be a bit of work. But essentialyl here is my advice:

1) Get a general idea of what martial art suits your body type best and which one interests you most. Ideally these two attributes are the same martial art. It sounds like you are really interested in karate but I would advise just learning about other styles before making a final decision. If you're not into the grappling martial arts (like judo or brazilian jiu-jitsu) you might want to check out muay thai kickboxing or perhaps wing chun, as these are more striking based like karate and may suit your reach advantage.

2) Go through the phone book, or maybe even a website that may list your local dojos. Call the ones you are interested in and ask if you can come by and observe a class. Many dojos will even offer one free class so you can get a feel for the instructors. They'll tell you what to wear, but you shouldn't need any equipment since you most likely won't be sparring the first day. It's very important that you go to multiple schools and not sign up for classes at the first school you go to. If you indeed decide on karate and visit multiple schools, you'll notice that there's a tremendous variation among the styles of karate. Like you said, there's some karate schools out there who primarily market themselves towards children. However there ARE karate schools out there that are pretty hardcore as well.

I hope that helps. If you have any other questions feel free to ask.

Ripsaw · 06-17-2005, 07:04 AM

I have been at my fair share of schools over the years. Here are some things to consider.

Do not sign a long term contract.
Do develop rapport with the Head Instructor and Senior Instructors.
Do not be afraid to ask questions.
Do take a trial class.
Do not think that any one martial art is the trump card to other martial arts.
Do take notes.
Do not do anything that you do not feel comfortable with.
Do have fun.
Do not stop considering techniques from other arts.
Do make friends.

In terms of joining a school, some appreciate advance warning of your arrival, some do not care. You can usually contact the school via phone or email. Think of it as an interview. The school wants more good students, and you are looking for the right school. A good student pays his fees on time, behaves appropriately and respectfully, and does not embarass the school. Outline what you are looking for at the appropriate time, and see if the dojo is appropriate for you.

Good luck.
TFP-fu 4 u

odu_sonar_AE · 06-30-2005, 12:31 PM

Karate is such a great sport…I took Karate from the time I was 8 until 16, and had achieved a first-degree black belt by time I was going on 13. This is definitely a sport that teaches you a lot about yourself.

With that said, there are many types of styles & teachers out there, and finding the right one for you might not happen the first time. Every Dojo I’ve seen allows newcomers to watch classes before asking them to sign up. Even though the school likes the money, most instructors want to train people who feel they will be a good fit for their school.

Once you pick a school, they will notify you what you need to wear. Most schools require a basic gi (though some train in street clothes) with your beginner belt. As you spend some time there, you will most likely have to purchase some sparing gear (including a mouthpiece).

Before signing up, (this should be common sense), make sure to read the contract. Before going to the school, make sure to have a list of questions with you so you don’t forget to get them answered. As stated above, take the trial class if they offer it. Also, when watching class, pay attention to the students. They are also a good reflection on the instructor.

One thing to remember - forget everything you learned from the books when being taught at the school. Different styles teach similar moves with different details. Forgetting what you’ve read in the books will make learning the moves that much easier.

Good luck, & have fun!

archpaladin · 07-07-2005, 05:01 PM

Not much more to say that hasn't already been said. I agree with the previous comments completely.

On the mature dojo comment: did you mean student age, or on dojo heritage and recognition? If you meant age then whatever everyone else said. If you meant heritage then I would recommend this:

1. Ask the instructor about his lineage. He/She should be forthcoming with it....if not, I would look elsewhere. I say this because you want to avoid the I-bought-a-black-belt-from-a-magazine instructors. Get the amount of time they have been their rank, and how long they've been teaching -- those numbers are far more telling than the actual rank they are.

2. Ask the students, or if you're daring enough the instructors of other schools about an instructor's lineage. Some instructors do tell very honest-sounding lies about where they learned their stuff.

Some instructors might consider this disrespecful, but I think it's absolutely necessary. I came from a dojo where the instructor was self-promoted and lied to all his students. I would spare you that same crap.

Zeraph · 07-08-2005, 10:48 AM

All good advice, just be aware there are a lot of McDojos out there and it may take some looking. You should also decide if what you really want is sport, or self defense.

Ripsaw · 07-08-2005, 02:50 PM

JinnKai:

It's been two months. Have you found a suitable dojo?

Jinn · 07-11-2005, 08:28 AM

Unfortunately, no. I've searched the internet profusely looking for a Dojo, and I've only found one -- their website is crap. Half the links are broken, and the only pictures they have show younger-aged children doing their tests. I actually started looking again today, and came back to this thread to re-read it. I'm coming to realize that theres a million different styles and I really don't know where to start. I really want to start.. now.. but I'm having a hard time divising a plan.. ...

Jinn · 07-11-2005, 08:54 AM

Damnit -- TWO MONTHS -- you made me realize how much I suck at motivation.... I actually found a school (http://www.americanblackbeltacademy.com) that looks like it might be cool. It's only a block away, and they have the "avoidance first" kind of Karate mentality. It doesnt really look like a black-belt factory, but I'm still worried that it might be too kid-friendly for me. There's something wierd about sparring someone half my height or half my age...

Here's to hoping I have the perserverance to follow through..

odu_sonar_AE · 07-19-2005, 10:05 AM

JinnKai,

You probably won’t have to worry about sparring a child. Most places that teach have separate classes for adults & children (assuming they teach both). I have only practiced at one dojo, but I don’t recollect any of my other friends mentioning to me any mixes of children & adults for their classes.

You said you were looking @ the Internet for a dojo…have you also tried the telephone book? Although many places have websites these days, there are still a great number of places where a URL comes from a whole different language.

I still wish you luck in finding a school. I know it can be tough to find a style that best suits you.

Supple Cow · 04-02-2006, 11:40 PM

Hey, what happened?

Jinn · 04-03-2006, 06:47 AM

Man, I suck at life..

I feel too busy now to do it.. 28 hours of work, 21 credit hours..

Supple Cow · 04-03-2006, 09:48 AM

Nah, you don't suck at life. There's always the summer again.

Kewpie Dan · 04-03-2006, 06:03 PM

for my 2 cents (if they are worth anything), i have a 2nd degree black belt in shotokan, and have trained in muay thai and am dabbling in submission wrestling so i hope you don't think i'm blowing smoke out of my ass.

in my opinion, if you want to start slow go with karate, (before you jump on me, there are some excelletn clubs out there, i was a member of one, unfortunately, too many of them are black belt factories) and then when you feel you are ready go into a good muay thai or boxing club.

but my philosophy is why wait? just start off with muay thai, boxing, or wrestling. the training is intense, but when you make it past the 3 week hump the benefits will be astounding. (not to say there aren't any b.s. muay thai, boxing, or wrestling clubs, but there are usually less).

other than that, i agree with what everyone else is saying. if you have any questions about the styles feel free to pm me.

good luck finding a club!

lilfle · 04-11-2006, 08:20 PM

i saw that you live in colorado, they have an amazing circuit, the CKA (colorado karate association), go to their website at coloradokarateassociation.org

there is alot of information there, and there are many schools in co springs, i would recommend dave coppock - i live in kansas and have been to many of the tournaments in colorado, they are very well run, all of those guys have been in the martial arts forever, they are all really knowledgable - i'm not 100% sure they dont make you sign a contract or anything, but i'm pretty sure they dont

i'm anxious to hear how it goes..

06-16-2005, 12:25 PM	#1 (permalink)
Jinn Lover - Protector - Teacher Location: Seattle, WA	Getting into Karate Working out has always seemed so pointless to me, because it doesn’t feel like I’m doing anything productive. Working out for no reason other than to lose weight never works, because I really don’t mind my 4 or 5 lb gut out the front of my belt that much. However, I would like to get into shape – and by that I mean being able to run, walk, and play sports more effectively. I’d also like to build up my arms so that they match my otherwise huge stature. I’m 6’ 6” but my arms are roughly the size of a 2 by 2 piece of lumber. I’m just under 200 lbs, and most of that is in my midsection. That said, I get incredibly bored of running on a treadmill and lifting weights and it provides no motivation to continue doing it. I feel like I’m wasting my time.. sooo.. the only solution I could think of was Karate. I’ve loved Karate since I was a kid, and I read every Karate book I could get my hands on. At a young age my parents wouldn’t let me do Karate, because they thought it was too dangerous. Now that I’m old enough, I really would like to join a Dojo because I think it would give me (a) a damn good workout (b) a schedule that made it easier to do it regularly (c) make me better at self defense. The problem is, I don’t know how to go about doing this. Do you just walk in and ask to join? Do you need certain equipment or knowledge from the get-go? I also want to make sure it’s a more mature dojo, and I’m not practicing with 6-8 year olds. I live in Colorado Springs, and I can’t really find any websites that give me an “easy” way to figure these things out.. Anyone who’s done this or plans to do it or knows about it – any ideas? __________________ "I'm typing on a computer of science, which is being sent by science wires to a little science server where you can access it. I'm not typing on a computer of philosophy or religion or whatever other thing you think can be used to understand the universe because they're a poor substitute in the role of understanding the universe which exists independent from ourselves." - Willravel

06-17-2005, 02:44 AM	#2 (permalink)
ChrisJericho eat more fruit Location: Seattle	Finding a dojo or style that fits you can be a bit of work. But essentialyl here is my advice: 1) Get a general idea of what martial art suits your body type best and which one interests you most. Ideally these two attributes are the same martial art. It sounds like you are really interested in karate but I would advise just learning about other styles before making a final decision. If you're not into the grappling martial arts (like judo or brazilian jiu-jitsu) you might want to check out muay thai kickboxing or perhaps wing chun, as these are more striking based like karate and may suit your reach advantage. 2) Go through the phone book, or maybe even a website that may list your local dojos. Call the ones you are interested in and ask if you can come by and observe a class. Many dojos will even offer one free class so you can get a feel for the instructors. They'll tell you what to wear, but you shouldn't need any equipment since you most likely won't be sparring the first day. It's very important that you go to multiple schools and not sign up for classes at the first school you go to. If you indeed decide on karate and visit multiple schools, you'll notice that there's a tremendous variation among the styles of karate. Like you said, there's some karate schools out there who primarily market themselves towards children. However there ARE karate schools out there that are pretty hardcore as well. I hope that helps. If you have any other questions feel free to ask. __________________ "A casual stroll through the lunatic asylum shows us that faith proves nothing." - Friedrich Nietzsche

06-17-2005, 07:04 AM	#3 (permalink)
Ripsaw Chef in Training	I have been at my fair share of schools over the years. Here are some things to consider. Do not sign a long term contract. Do develop rapport with the Head Instructor and Senior Instructors. Do not be afraid to ask questions. Do take a trial class. Do not think that any one martial art is the trump card to other martial arts. Do take notes. Do not do anything that you do not feel comfortable with. Do have fun. Do not stop considering techniques from other arts. Do make friends. In terms of joining a school, some appreciate advance warning of your arrival, some do not care. You can usually contact the school via phone or email. Think of it as an interview. The school wants more good students, and you are looking for the right school. A good student pays his fees on time, behaves appropriately and respectfully, and does not embarass the school. Outline what you are looking for at the appropriate time, and see if the dojo is appropriate for you. Good luck. TFP-fu 4 u __________________ "We are supposed to be masters of space, but we cant even line up our shoes?" One life, one chance, one opportunity.

07-07-2005, 05:01 PM	#5 (permalink)
archpaladin Crazy	Not much more to say that hasn't already been said. I agree with the previous comments completely. On the mature dojo comment: did you mean student age, or on dojo heritage and recognition? If you meant age then whatever everyone else said. If you meant heritage then I would recommend this: 1. Ask the instructor about his lineage. He/She should be forthcoming with it....if not, I would look elsewhere. I say this because you want to avoid the I-bought-a-black-belt-from-a-magazine instructors. Get the amount of time they have been their rank, and how long they've been teaching -- those numbers are far more telling than the actual rank they are. 2. Ask the students, or if you're daring enough the instructors of other schools about an instructor's lineage. Some instructors do tell very honest-sounding lies about where they learned their stuff. Some instructors might consider this disrespecful, but I think it's absolutely necessary. I came from a dojo where the instructor was self-promoted and lied to all his students. I would spare you that same crap. __________________ This space not for rent.

07-08-2005, 02:50 PM	#7 (permalink)
Ripsaw Chef in Training	JinnKai: It's been two months. Have you found a suitable dojo? __________________ "We are supposed to be masters of space, but we cant even line up our shoes?" One life, one chance, one opportunity.

06-30-2005, 12:31 PM	#4 (permalink)
odu_sonar_AE Tilted	Karate is such a great sport…I took Karate from the time I was 8 until 16, and had achieved a first-degree black belt by time I was going on 13. This is definitely a sport that teaches you a lot about yourself. With that said, there are many types of styles & teachers out there, and finding the right one for you might not happen the first time. Every Dojo I’ve seen allows newcomers to watch classes before asking them to sign up. Even though the school likes the money, most instructors want to train people who feel they will be a good fit for their school. Once you pick a school, they will notify you what you need to wear. Most schools require a basic gi (though some train in street clothes) with your beginner belt. As you spend some time there, you will most likely have to purchase some sparing gear (including a mouthpiece). Before signing up, (this should be common sense), make sure to read the contract. Before going to the school, make sure to have a list of questions with you so you don’t forget to get them answered. As stated above, take the trial class if they offer it. Also, when watching class, pay attention to the students. They are also a good reflection on the instructor. One thing to remember - forget everything you learned from the books when being taught at the school. Different styles teach similar moves with different details. Forgetting what you’ve read in the books will make learning the moves that much easier. Good luck, & have fun!

07-08-2005, 10:48 AM	#6 (permalink)
Zeraph Banned Location: The Cosmos	All good advice, just be aware there are a lot of McDojos out there and it may take some looking. You should also decide if what you really want is sport, or self defense.

07-11-2005, 08:28 AM	#8 (permalink)
Jinn Lover - Protector - Teacher Location: Seattle, WA	Unfortunately, no. I've searched the internet profusely looking for a Dojo, and I've only found one -- their website is crap. Half the links are broken, and the only pictures they have show younger-aged children doing their tests. I actually started looking again today, and came back to this thread to re-read it. I'm coming to realize that theres a million different styles and I really don't know where to start. I really want to start.. now.. but I'm having a hard time divising a plan.. ... __________________ "I'm typing on a computer of science, which is being sent by science wires to a little science server where you can access it. I'm not typing on a computer of philosophy or religion or whatever other thing you think can be used to understand the universe because they're a poor substitute in the role of understanding the universe which exists independent from ourselves." - Willravel

07-11-2005, 08:54 AM	#9 (permalink)
Jinn Lover - Protector - Teacher Location: Seattle, WA	Damnit -- TWO MONTHS -- you made me realize how much I suck at motivation.... I actually found a school (http://www.americanblackbeltacademy.com) that looks like it might be cool. It's only a block away, and they have the "avoidance first" kind of Karate mentality. It doesnt really look like a black-belt factory, but I'm still worried that it might be too kid-friendly for me. There's something wierd about sparring someone half my height or half my age... Here's to hoping I have the perserverance to follow through.. __________________ "I'm typing on a computer of science, which is being sent by science wires to a little science server where you can access it. I'm not typing on a computer of philosophy or religion or whatever other thing you think can be used to understand the universe because they're a poor substitute in the role of understanding the universe which exists independent from ourselves." - Willravel

07-19-2005, 10:05 AM	#10 (permalink)
odu_sonar_AE Tilted	JinnKai, You probably won’t have to worry about sparring a child. Most places that teach have separate classes for adults & children (assuming they teach both). I have only practiced at one dojo, but I don’t recollect any of my other friends mentioning to me any mixes of children & adults for their classes. You said you were looking @ the Internet for a dojo…have you also tried the telephone book? Although many places have websites these days, there are still a great number of places where a URL comes from a whole different language. I still wish you luck in finding a school. I know it can be tough to find a style that best suits you.

04-02-2006, 11:40 PM	#11 (permalink)
Supple Cow Americow, the Beautiful Location: Washington, D.C.	Hey, what happened? __________________ "I've missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. Twenty-six times I've been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed." (Michael Jordan)

04-03-2006, 06:47 AM	#12 (permalink)
Jinn Lover - Protector - Teacher Location: Seattle, WA	Man, I suck at life.. I feel too busy now to do it.. 28 hours of work, 21 credit hours.. __________________ "I'm typing on a computer of science, which is being sent by science wires to a little science server where you can access it. I'm not typing on a computer of philosophy or religion or whatever other thing you think can be used to understand the universe because they're a poor substitute in the role of understanding the universe which exists independent from ourselves." - Willravel

04-03-2006, 09:48 AM	#13 (permalink)
Supple Cow Americow, the Beautiful Location: Washington, D.C.	Nah, you don't suck at life. There's always the summer again. __________________ "I've missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. Twenty-six times I've been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed." (Michael Jordan)

04-03-2006, 06:03 PM	#14 (permalink)
Kewpie Dan powered by the souls of dead warriors Location: In the rain, dying	for my 2 cents (if they are worth anything), i have a 2nd degree black belt in shotokan, and have trained in muay thai and am dabbling in submission wrestling so i hope you don't think i'm blowing smoke out of my ass. in my opinion, if you want to start slow go with karate, (before you jump on me, there are some excelletn clubs out there, i was a member of one, unfortunately, too many of them are black belt factories) and then when you feel you are ready go into a good muay thai or boxing club. but my philosophy is why wait? just start off with muay thai, boxing, or wrestling. the training is intense, but when you make it past the 3 week hump the benefits will be astounding. (not to say there aren't any b.s. muay thai, boxing, or wrestling clubs, but there are usually less). other than that, i agree with what everyone else is saying. if you have any questions about the styles feel free to pm me. good luck finding a club! __________________ I'm so awesome I made your mom cry!

04-11-2006, 08:20 PM	#15 (permalink)
lilfle Upright	i saw that you live in colorado, they have an amazing circuit, the CKA (colorado karate association), go to their website at coloradokarateassociation.org there is alot of information there, and there are many schools in co springs, i would recommend dave coppock - i live in kansas and have been to many of the tournaments in colorado, they are very well run, all of those guys have been in the martial arts forever, they are all really knowledgable - i'm not 100% sure they dont make you sign a contract or anything, but i'm pretty sure they dont i'm anxious to hear how it goes..