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Frequently Asked Questions

• Do you have classes for children and families?
• How much does it cost?
• How do I join?
• I come from another system, is it ok for me to join?
• What is the average class size and male to female ratio?
• What is Kata?
• How long does it take to become a black belt?
• When do you get to use weapons?
• Do you do a lot of sparring?
• Do you participate in tournaments?

The classes at Linnton Community Center and the 6:30 class at Eastham Community School focus on teaching to families and children.  This is a great way for parents to participate in their children's activities.

This depends on the dojo you attend. It is often 1/4 the cost of normal dojo dues in the area.

New students are welcome any time. Feel free to drop in during one of our classes to watch or participate prior to joining the club. To join it just takes you coming in to the club, paying dues that have been agreed upon between you and the Sensei, and participating.

For classes offered through Portland Community College as indicated on the schedule, you will need to enroll through the college.  If you have questions, please contact us at the address below.

We welcome all karateka. Students from other styles bring learning opportunities for all of us.

Class sizes can range, depending on the location attended.  For example, in the morning classes offered at Portland Community College Sylvania, it can be as high as twenty five student with a close ratio of men to women.  In the evening club class there, it may only be on average six to seven students, with usually two of those students being female.  Women are always welcomed at all classes and locations.

Kata literally means 'Form'. It is a set of movements constructed to demonstrate blocks, strikes and counters. Kata is used to assist in learning focus and style. Kata pulls together basics from karate and uses them against an invisible opponent in a formalized way. Kata assists in teaching about eyes and to look before you move, pace and rhythm of movement, how to breath to maximize your efforts, to perfect techniques, focus on the kata and finally to have a powerful kiai and to understand the meaning of kiai.

This can depend on the school and system. In our particular school and style it can average 4 to 6 years. This can differ depending on the student and the amount of time and work they put into their training. There are some that believe when you understand that the black belt is not what is important but the practice itself is what means the most to you then you may be close to a black belt.

Weapon's training begins after the karateka receives his/her black belt.  It is important to have a solid foundation of basic punching, blocking, stances, etc. before starting weapon training.  As an advanced student the work with weapons does not take away from core training.

We do a very minimal amount of sparring.  We do however emphasize ippon kumite (one point sparring).  This consist of an attacker and a defender, often focusing on a specific technique being taught by the sensei. 

As a club we do not participate in tournaments. However, there are many open tournaments in the area and it is not discouraged to participate if an individual is interested.