What is Shotokai Karate?

Shotokai is one of the earliest forms of modern karate and remains faithful to its origins. It is pronounces as follows -

The term Shotokai refers to the style of karate practiced.  There are many others you may choose from, each offering something a little different.  The phrase "horses for courses" springs to mind as some will be more suitable for what you want than others.

Shotokai has evolved over the years. Master Mitsusuke Harada first brought Shotokai to the UK in the 1960s, delivering and developing the art in a unique and effective way. Over the years, various students of sensei Harada have left his organisation to form their own, each with it's own 'take' on the training techniques, organisational structure and so on which should surround the essential Shotokai style.

The following web sites deal with the history of the Shotokai in more detail and are worth a read!

Shotokai Canada
The Shotokai Encyclopaedia

It is widely accepted that to be efficient, effective and successful in a confrontational situation, it is important to remain calm and relaxed. This relaxed "body condition" or "state" is a key element to Shotokai Karate practice methodology as practised in Zenshin dojo. Techniques, form and posture are also important and taught in a way which encourages the individual to maximise their potential. There is recognition that, although "body shapes and techniques" are important, so too is the understanding and spirit that students only experience through regular practice.

Shotokai Karate is not a sport, although a healthy and natural desire to do well against others is often present, the only real competition is with you!

How fit will I need to be?

The term fitness is a relative thing.  One person's fitness is another person's fatness.  Whatever your base of personal fitness (however defined) it will be improved with the exercises we do.  General warm-ups are performed, along with specific stretching and every reasonable care is taken to ensure that people work at or a little above their own personal pace. 

Friends of mine have come back from Karate lessons "black and blue".  Will I?

We've come back to "horses for courses". If that's what you want then there are places to find it. Personally, we are not convinced this approach adds much to the learning experience. Techniques will be taught that can do injury if used offensively, although you will learn them at distances that are appropriate to your personal level of skill. You will be learning the art of what a Chinese General, Sun Tsu, in 500bc phrased "the art of war is to render your opponent incapable before you have to fight him". Shotokai Karate as practised in Zenshin dojo is all about stopping the fight before it starts.

Is there a grading structure?

Yes, based on a coloured belt system set out below:
 

Red 6th Kyu

Black 1st Dan

Yellow 5th Kyu

Black 2nd Dan

Orange 4th Kyu

Black 3rd Dan

Green 3rd Kyu

Black 4th Dan

Blue 2nd Kyu

Black 5th Dan

Brown 1st Kyu