Karate training with ICHIGOKAI

The Japanese word for bow is rei. Its meaning includes bow, respect and courtesy. This is central our training.

As you enter the training hall (Dojo) you bow to the place where you come to study. You bow at the beginning

of the class and at the end of the class – to the institution of karate, to your teachers (Sensei) and your

seniors (Sempai). This is one of the many ways we show respect for each other.

We train the body through physical exercise so that it is strong and flexible enough to carry out the techniques.

We train the mind by analysing how to develop our technique. We develop our broader understanding by linking

the principles of karate to our wider lives.

Our training includes Kihon (basics), Kata (sequences or patterns of moves) and Kumite (learning how to defend

yourself). We introduce pair-work when students are ready. This gradually moves on to free sparring, again,

when students are ready. We also provide opportunities for students to enter competitions.

Senior students are introduced to training with weapons