About Practice – Saratoga Shotokan Karate Dojo

Adult practice

Adults are welcome to attend practice at any time. Before jumping in we suggest you speak to one of the instructors who can answer any questions. Newcomers may attend practice without a Southwest YMCA membership but must join the Y to continue with class. Please visit the Southwest YMCA website for membership information.

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes you can move in, such as sweat pants or yoga pants and a T-shirt. We do not require that you purchase a gi (a karate uniform) from us. We observe the custom of removing shoes and socks prior to practice and, for your safety and for the safety of others, we ask that you remove any jewelry such as rings, earrings, and necklaces.

Adult practice times are Mondays and Wednesdays from 7:30 pm to 8:30 for the beginners class, continuing through to 9:30 pm for the advanced class.

Karate stands on the side of justice. – Gichin Funakoshi

Children’s practice

Children from ages 6 to 11 may practice during the children’s practice session Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:45pm to 7:30pm. We ask that all children (or their parents) have a valid YMCA membership or family membership.

The YMCA coordinates entry dates for child Karate students. Children’s practice has a limited enrollment that can fill up quickly. Please contact the front desk at the YMCA for details on entry dates and membership.

Children may wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing, or a gi (a karate uniform) for practice.

Karate is a lifelong pursuit. – Gichin Funakoshi

Dojo etiquette

Karate is dangerous so proper observance of etiquette is as important to our training as is learning the physical techniques of Karate.

Please follow the etiquette below at all SKA dojos:

Remove your shoes before entering the dojo.
Bow each time you enter or leave the dojo.
Try not to be late for class. If you are late, enter the dojo quietly and wait at the back of the class until the instructor asks you to join the practice. You should then bow and join the class.
The dojo is a formal place where all participants must wear a gi (a plain white karate uniform). Wash your gi regularly and keep it in good condition.
Remove your watch and all jewelry before practice to avoid injury to you and others.
Keep your finger and toe nails cut short to avoid injury to others. Maintaining personal cleanliness is an act of consideration and respect for yourself and others.
No food or beverages are permitted in the dojo during practice.
Do not lean against the walls or sprawl with your legs stretched out. Kneel or sit cross-legged.
No unnecessary talking during practice.
Never leave the dojo without permission.
Report all injuries to the instructor before leaving.
Help clean the dojo before practice. “Polishing the floor is in fact the art of polishing your own mind.” –Ohshima Sensei
Respect all dojo equipment such as kicking shields and focus mitts. They should always be neatly put away and should never be thrown around.
Pay your dojo dues. If you are unable to pay your dues on time, talk with the person in charge of dues collection.
Visitors should sit quietly at the back of the dojo.