HOW TO GET STARTED

Welcome

Grand River Karate has a very welcoming atmosphere. Our instructors pride themselves are being friendly and dedicated to the art. Whether you are new to karate or have studied another martial arts style, we will do our utmost to help you with learning or transitioning.

Everyone has different goals. E.g. We have members who wish to;

loose weight
learn self defense
build confidence
have a unique hobby

If you have questions read our FAQ's (Frequently asked Questions)

We Want You to Feel Comfortable

It's normal to feel a bit nervous for your first dojo experience. Everyone, including the instructors, was once a beginner. Grand River Karate has a reputation for it's friendly supportive atmosphere and our goal is to help you feel at home.

Try a Free Trial Lesson
Come out for a free trial lesson. All you need is a T-shirt and track pants or shorts. Please arrive at least 15 minutes before class so we can show you the facilities and answer any questions. Please let us know if you have any health issues or injuries so that our instructors are aware of your condition.

Click Here to contact us

Classes

Kids Class 8 to 11 yr olds
Kids Class Schedule, Fees and Registration

Teens/Adult Class 12 yrs and Up

Info, Schedule and Fees

Coming From Another Style?
We have many students who have come from other martial art styles and are now training Shidokan Shorin Ryu at Grand River Karate. Many of our instructors have trained in other style as well. We believe there is no one style superior to another. They are simply different and should all be respected equally. Many karate practitioners are interested in going back to the roots to learn Traditional Okinawan Karatedo. Okinawa is the birth place of Karate and Shorin Ryu is the original style.

What to Expect at Your First Class

You'll need to sign a release form before starting your trial class. We can send it to you by email or you cn sign one at the dojo.

It is required you remove jewelry, watches, bracelets or wristbands of any kind, as these could get damaged or accidentally injure your partner while you're training. Medical bracelets are acceptable.

The classes typically consist of a warm up, stretching, basics blocks, punches and kicks following by kata, partner drills with an emphases cooperation, control and supporting one another.

Dojo Rules (Dojo is Japanese for "training hall" or "place of the Way")

All Black Belts are to be addressed as Sensei.
Always be on time for class. If you are late warm up on your own. The Instructor will then ask you to join in.
For safety avoid wearing shoes, rings, jewelry and hair clips during class. Soft head bands are allowed.
Maintain hygiene: clip finger nails, toe nails and keep your gi clean.
For your safety, ask the instructor, who is teaching class, for permission to leave the training area (e.g., the restroom and equipment room).
To enhance your learning, ask questions. If Sensei is talking to someone wait until he/she is done, unless it’s an emergency.
When class is called to begin or end, line up quickly and quietly.
Always pay attention during class and practice hard.
Be polite, courteous, and respectful to everyone in the dojo.
Have fun! Make friends!

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