1. Can anyone learn karate?
Yes - anyone who can walk or engage in regular physical workout can learn karate. There are NO age limits.

2. Can children learn karate?
Yes - any child over five years old, whose attention span is average can learn this art.

3. What is the most important factor in karate?
Self discipline. We stress discipline, respect, courtesy, proper spirit and non-violence. Once these factors are instilled in our students, it becomes an easy chore to develop sstamina, coordination, karate techniques and self-confidence.

4. How long does it take to learn karate?
One can learn a great deal in one day. There is no limit in the learning and mastery of karate techniques. The more one practices, the more he or she will improve and each day he/she will be better than the one who has never started. Initially, a karate student is taught the most basic techniques and then later separated to learn more advanced techniques.

5. What type of clothing do we wear?
A karate uniform - called a "Gi". You will also need fist pads (for safety).

6. Will my hands and feet get deformed?
No - we do not teach people to deform their hands or feet - it is unnecessary.

7. How long does it take to make "Blackbelt"?
Although it depends on the method and frequency of training, it generally takes from two to three years to attain the rank of 1st Degree - or SHODAN. There are, however, TEN levels in black belt. First-degree black belt in karate is awarded to those who have mastered the BASIC TECHNIQUES

8. Do I have to be gifted?
No. To progress in karate, repetition and determination are the MOST IMPORTANT tools you will need.

9. What belt colors do you have?
There are ten colored belt grades (Kyu): White, Yellow, Orange, Blue, Green, Purple & Brown Belt. There are TEN Black belt levels.

10. How often are your examinations held?
We test every two months for the kyu grades. Testing for Black Belt is once a year

11. Why is there a charge for examinations?
Charging a fee for testing acts as a deterrent for those who would try to take an exam when they are not ready for it. Also - a fee is charged because it emphasizes the importance of the step the student is preparing to take.

12. Are any other items required?
FIST PADS are required of all members for safety.
FSKA Patch to be worn on the uniform.
FSKA Annual Membership Card. With this card, dojo members receive a $5 discount per exam and seminar. Additionally, they are able to train at the World Headquarters and other affiliated dojos.

13. Why do you bow in class?
Shotokan Karate is a traditional Japanese Martial Art. Bowing is a traditional Japanese way to show respect (similar to the way Westerners shake hands). In Japan, the lower the bow, the greater the demonstration of respect. When we bow at the beginning and end of class, it simply the traditional Japanese demonstration of respect to the Founder of Shotokan Karate and Chief Instructor of FSKA as well as our Chief Instructor.

14. Is tournament participation required?
Tournament participation is optional. FSKA does sponsor two tournaments each year in the United States - a "Spring" Tournament and an "Annual" Tournament, open to competitors of all ranks. The annual "World Karate Championship" is held in Las Vegas Nevada in the October-November time frame. FSKA affiliates world-wide often host tournaments and you are welcome to participate in those events also. Additionally, outside organizations send tournament invitations to us - and these are available for those who would like to participate! Tournaments are an excellent way for students to challenge themselves and compare their abilities with other students of similar rank.

Lafferty Traditional
Shotokan Karate Do
1490 Alamo Drive, Suite "C"
Vacaville, CA 95687
Phone: 707-469-0442
Fax: 707-449-8224
Email: leonardlafferty@comcast.net