Adult Basics Class
The human body needs regular physical exercise in order to maintain its ability to function. For fifteen hundred years people have practiced karate as a means of physical conditioning. In about the year 500a.d. it was introduced to Buddhist monks in order to get them into shape to endure the severe discipline of their religion. Centuries later parents brought their weak or sickly children to karate masters to be trained in the art so they could become strong and healthy. Today karate is practiced around the world by old and young alike. In this country the unique benefits of this age old activity are now becoming more widely recognized by mainstream Americans.
A traditional karate dojo is different than a sport or health club. You will meet other progressive minded people; but there are also rituals involved, such as bowing and meditating, that help you get into a frame of mind to put your “regular” self aside. It is beneficial to get rid of the “self” for a while in order to focus on what the body is doing in the present moment. In sports this is sometimes referred to as “getting into a zone”. After warm-up exercises and stretching you perform basic techniques, combinations and forms, over and over - not merely just exercising but in pursuit of perfection. After working intensely you feel good because your body is becoming more physically fit and agile. Your mind experiences a release of tension and you are armed with confidence.
Karate is a form of exercise that you can enjoy throughout your life. You just need to make time in your schedule to practice one hour twice a week. We will work with you to help you acclimate into our classes. The older you get the more you will appreciate what this centuries old activity can do for you.