Shotokan Karate

Shotokan Karate course Copyright: © HSZ Walter

Shōtōkan, Japanese for "Hall of Pine Waves," is one of the five most widespread styles of karate. The training is based on fundamentals called Kihon, forms known as Kata, and partner fighting referred to as Kumite. The main characteristics of Shōtōkan include deep stances, fast techniques, generating power from the hips, and fighting from various distances. We train at a traditional level, meaning it is oriented towards self-defense rather than competition.

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Basic Information

Sports Facilities

Notes regarding the interim sports hall

We kindly ask for your understanding that due to the extraordinary temporary interim situation, the usual room climate cannot always be guaranteed.

Equipment

For starters, comfortable sports clothing that provides sufficient freedom of movement is enough. If a dōgi, a karate uniform, is available, it can be worn from the beginning, even without a rank—then with a white belt. However, a judo uniform is less suitable for karate training due to its very rough fabric.

All jewelry must be removed before training or, if that is not possible, covered with sports tape or sweatbands. Shoes are not required as training is done barefoot.

Out of consideration for other participants, personal hygiene, clean training clothes, and trimmed fingernails and toenails should be taken for granted.

Notice

Punctual appearance to the training is required so that the welcome ritual is not disturbed.

Course Cancellations and Facility Closures

If you would like to be informed of last minute course cancellations and facility closures affecting this course, please join the corresponding mailing list.

Contact

Tobias Brunner

Representative

Dipl.-Sportl.

Elke Bernhard

Diplom-Sportlehrerin

Shotokan Karate Level 1

Target Group and Requirements

This course is aimed at everyone who wishes to learn karate as a martial art and has no prior experience. Those who have previously practiced a different martial art or simply taken a longer break from training should also join this course level. As the taught movement principles are independent of age and gender, one’s training condition plays only a minor role. Those with past injuries or illnesses, as well as preexisting conditions of the musculoskeletal system should consider consulting the course instructor ahead of participating the course. As the content of the course builds on itself, regular participation is required. Late entry into the course is possible, but should, with consideration for the progress of the course and of the other course participants, first be discussed with the course instructor.

Content and Goals

The training begins and ends with a short meditation. This is followed by warm-up exercises. The goal of the Level 1 course is to teach fundamental striking and kicking techniques, as well as the first Kata. The techniques learned are applied through sparring exercises with partners. Depending on the progress of the course, the second Kata will also be taught, along with insights into self-defense.

Dates and Booking

 Shotokan Karate Level 1

Shotokan Karate Levels 2 to 3

Target Group and Requirements

This course is targeted at everyone who wants to learn karate as a martial art and has secure command over the test program up to and including the yellow belt, the 8. Kyu. Karateka from different schools or with advanced experience of a similar martial art are equally welcome. As the taught movement principles are independent of age and gender, pure muscle strength and flexibility only play a subordinate role. Those with past injury or illness or preexisting conditions of the musculoskeletal system should consult the course instructor ahead of participating the course. As the content of the course builds on itself, regular participation is required. Late entry into the course is possible, but should, with consideration for the progress of the course and of the other course participants, first be discussed with the course instructor.

Content and Goals

The training begins and ends with a short meditation. This is followed by warm-up exercises. The goal of the Level 2-3 course is to deepen and expand the basic techniques, to practically apply the sequences of movements (Kata), to teach advanced Katas, as well as partner fighting and self-defense.

Dates and Booking

 Shotokan Karate Levels 2-3