Shotokan Karate is a traditional Japanese martial art dating back to the early 1900’s.  It
was founded by Gichin Funakoshi and was the first style of karate-do introduced to
mainland Japan.
Master Funakoshi refined and standardized the techniques of
this art, which is built on the perfection of comparatively few
techniques, rather than a limited knowledge of many.  He
deeply believed that Shotokan Karate was a means of
developing a strong character and self-defense.

With millions of karate students around the world, Shotokan
Karate is the most popular style of traditional karate today.
"The aim of Karate lies not in victory, nor defeat, but in
the perfection of the character of its participants."

Master Gichin Funakoshi.
Our program is designed to advance each student using a “step-by-step” approach
toward his or her development in Shotokan Karate.  

Training primarily consists of:
• Kihon - basic blocks, punches, kicks and stances
• Kata - prearranged forms simulating combat situations
• Kumite - sparring (controlled and free-form)
Our program philosophy is best reflected in the Dojo Kun, or "dojo saying", which is
repeated at the end of each class.  It reminds students that karate-do is not just about
training the body, but also about perfecting character and attitude.  It also reminds students
that the physical and mental strength learned through karate must be accompanied by a
moral code of respect and restraint.

Dojo Kun:

Seek perfection of character
Be faithful
Endeavor
Respect others
Refrain from violent behavior
Rank tests are given every four months.  The order of belt progression, associated rank
and minimum training times are listed below.
Belt Colour
Rank
Minimum Training
White
Yellow
Orange
Green
Purple (1st)
Purple (2nd
Brown (1st)
Brown (2nd)
Brown (3rd)
Black (1st)
Black (2nd)
Black (3rd)
Black (4th)
9th kyu
8th kyu
7th kyu
6th kyu
5th kyu
4th kyu
3rd kyu
2nd kyu
1st kyu
Shodan
Nidan
Sandan
Yondan
-
4 months
8 months
12 months
16 months
20 months
24 months
28 months
32 months
3 to 3.5 years
2 years after Shodan
3 years after Nidan
4 years after Sandan
There are 10 degrees of progression in the black belt category.


Woodbine Shotokan Karate Club
About Us