Karate -do practice is a physically and mentally challenging activity but all the more rewarding as a result. It is suitable for anyone over 14 years of age regardless of physical ability but requires commitment and regular sustained practice, a minimum of twice a week training is recommended to make good progress.
We observe traditional dojo courtesy within our practice which includes for example beginning and completing our training with two kneeling bows - one to the front and one to the class. This maintains the heritage and authenticity of the art and respects important cultural aspects of JKF Wadokai Karate training.
Basics techniques are the foundation of effective Karate training and daily practise is recommended. Kihon consists of stationary basics and moving basics and covers blocking, punching, striking and kicking but most importantly correct body movement.
Historically Karate was taught using kata rather than separate basics. We have ten core kata - Pin'an 1 -5, Kushanku, Naihanchi, Seishan, Chinto and Niseishi. These are the kata which JKF Wadokai has standardised for practice.
These are perhaps the signature techniques of Wadokai Karate-do. Ten pair techniques which teach distance, timing and body movement. These form the basis of the practice for free sparring.
Free sparring allows Karate-ka to freely exchange techniques in a controlled manner. Done correctly, it can be an enjoyable and physically demanding practice testing speed, reaction, timing, balance etc.
JKF Wadokai inherited some techniques from Jujutsu (Yoshinryu) and old style Kendo (Jikishinkageryu) which the founder had practised in his youth. These includes tantodori omote kata - seven basic pair techniques dealing with a knife attack and seven sitting techniques which are trained from the traditional seiza kneeling position.