Please email us at information@shidokanint.ca if you are interested in training with us or would like to try a class.

Beginner classes are given at two locations:

As a beginner, all you will need to bring to class are some comfortable clothes (a T-shirt and some jogging pants are suggested). Also, we do not wear jewelry or watches in karate (they can cause injuries when doing partner work), so you should leave your valuables at home when you come to class.

Karate-do (meaning "way of empty hand") is a martial art involving a variety of techniques, such as strikes, punches, blocks and kicks. It is divided into three parts: basics, kata and kumite. Basics teach the student the proper way to block, punch, kick, etc. Kata is a pre-determined sequence of movements simulating attacks and blocks against multiple opponents. Kumite puts the techniques you learn into practice and is done with a partner. As students progress, they go up levels, earning different colours of belts.

Combining these aspects creates a highly dynamic and complete exercise, making use of a large number of muscles, conditioning the cardiovascular system and developing agility, stamina, coordination, speed and self-confidence. In addition to learning these techniques, the karateka (karate practitioner) will develop self-discipline and will be introduced to some Japanese traditions, culture and language.

Karate is comprised of a wide range of styles, each differing in stance, arm and/or leg positions. The Japan Karate Association was formed in May 1948, with Master Gichin Funakoshi as chief instructor. Since then the practice of JKA karate has become widespread providing its members with worldwide technical standards and certification. JKA students around the world strive to develop character and self-control along with the technical expertise associated with the JKA.

Our style of karate emphasizes control, focus, proper timing and body shifting while maintaining posture and strong basics and is suitable for karate students of all ages.