Frequently asked questions

We make it easy. Just arrive at the scheduled time listed on our timetable. If you can, get there about 10 to 15 minutes early to fill out a standard athletic waiver. You do not need to call ahead to book in.

Usually not. At TKA you work at your own pace, set your own goals, and we help you reach them. We recommend seeing your doctor before starting any exercise program. Even if your doctor sets restrictions, we can usually adjust the program so you still get the benefits of karate.

Very. Beyond self-defence, karate builds children's confidence, concentration, coordination and balance. It teaches respect, courtesy and goal-setting, helps them make friends, and keeps them fit and active. Most kids also find it genuinely fun.

We begin training students as young as four through our Little Samurai classes, which build fitness, coordination, discipline and focus. Children usually move into our junior classes around five to six, depending on maturity. Every new child is assessed gently in class first, then re-checked after a month so the child and parents can decide together whether to continue.

The traditional uniform is the Gi: plain white cotton canvas. You can buy one through TKA for between $50 and $110 depending on quality, and badges are supplied when you join. For your first classes, comfortable exercise clothes are fine. All classes are done in bare feet.

Yes, a good cross-section of ages, and female instructors too.

Always. We have nothing to hide. Anyone is welcome to observe a class before joining, and parents are encouraged to watch or try a class.

Our curriculum is specific, so in most cases we start you at an under-belt, but you should advance back to black belt quickly. Book an introductory class and we will get you going.

We grade for advancement three times a year, and black belt once a year. Gradings are not compulsory and we do not guarantee any rank. Black belt is rare; the surest path is to show up regularly, train diligently and avoid injury. Students progress through their Kyu grades, then Shodan Ho (probationary black belt), then Shodan, and on through the Dans. Be wary of the "Mc-Dojos" that promise a fast black belt.

We use a convenient direct debit system that you can set up and cancel any time. We also accept cash and cheque. Sorry, no credit cards. Fees are due before each class unless you have prepaid for the term. There are no lock-in or long-term contracts, so there is no risk.

Like any sport, it carries some risk, and we do what we can to prevent serious injury. We start everyone with basic moves and increase difficulty gradually so your body adapts safely.

Karate has three Ks: Kihon (basics, the punches, kicks, blocks and stances), Kata (set forms, sequences of movement that train direction, technique, speed, power and rhythm), and Kumite (partner work and sparring). Bunkai is breaking a kata down to understand and apply its movements as practical self-defence. Bunkai is where kata and kumite meet.

Karate is year-round, not seasonal. Check the timetable for the next class, or contact us to speak to one of our instructors.

Yes. Kobudo (Okinawan weapons) is built into our grading syllabus and taught from green belt through to black belt.

Karate is barely a hundred years old, so "traditional" is about lineage, not age. We teach karate as it was handed down to us, with minimal change, rather than inventing our own version. We also believe competition helps students progress, so we run a competition squad alongside regular classes.

No. Competition is encouraged for those who want it, through our by-invitation competition squad, but it is never required.