Signing up your kid for Karate is a great way to keep them physically active and try something new! Whether your family is familiar with it or not, Karate classes can teach kids discipline and structure. The following is a compilation of considerations will help you navigate the beginning of your kids Karate journey.
The four major karate styles developed in Japan, especially in Okinawa are: Shotokan, Wado-ryu, Shito-ryu, and Goju-ryu; many other styles of Karate are derived from these main four. Your Karate gym or studio may be able to trace their training back to one of these styles or various offshoots. Instructors may tout their style is best but the truth of the matter is whether or not your kid enjoys what they're teaching. Some styles emphasize forms or katas while others may focus on sparring.
If you're still unsure of which one to pick, take advantage of a Free Trial the gyms in your area offer. Try a few gyms out and take our Gym Questionnaire with you! Work together as a family to determine what's the best gym for your kid.
Ask yourself and your kid questions like: Which style of karate would they be interested in? What styles of karate are available in my area?
Quality and value is important to all of us as parents, especially when it comes to our kids. Take the time to research the gyms in your area and learn more about the instructors. Accreditations and certifications will vary due to the numerous styles of karate available. Use the following questions to help guide your search: Who have they learned or trained from? Has the instructor competed in tournaments or competitions? Do they have any certifications or awards from recognized Karate organizations?
Martial arts uniforms vary in weight, fit, material, and color. Karate uniforms (also known as a gi), tend to be lighter and other martial arts uniforms. Gi's are lightweight and breathable to keep kids cool during training. Gyms will usually offer a gi for your kid to start their training. This may be part of the sign up cost or cost extra. I recommend parents invest in another gi if their child trains multiple times a week. This will help on laundry and logistics when it comes to your weekly schedule. I also recommend getting all the same color uniforms so you can expedite laundry logistics 🧺
The belt system and promotions
Belts and promotions are a great way for kids to stay motivated when training martial arts. Karate rankings and promotions will vary from gym to gym depending upon where you live. We are all familiar with the fact that there is a white (Novice/Beginner) and black belt (Expert). The belts kids will earn in between will vary based upon numerous factors. Many gyms will outline testing criteria or groupings of skills/techniques that students must exhibit in order to be promoted. This provides kids structure and definitive targets that must be met in order to progress.
Instructors may be able also provide you with a timeline of progression but these timelines are very subjective. Progression is directly determined by variables your child can control (Attendance, Attitude, Knowledge, etc.). Some gyms also take into account non-martial arts criteria for promotion to encourage kids to be well-rounded individuals (ex. school grades, community services, etc.)
Most gyms will state that you can attend an unlimited amount of classes per week. But, there can be requirements and restrictions as to what classes your child may attend when they first sign up. Classes like Sparring, Competition, or Advanced Skills may require your child to pass tests or perform their skills before gaining access to these classes. The criteria is determined by the gym head instructors to ensure kids are able to safely and efficiently learn.
Take this into account when determining your families budget, time commitment, and schedule to ensure your family can attend classes accordingly.
Class sizes will vary based upon numerous factors. Population density in your area, instructor availability, and time of the year are common factors that cause this ratio to fluctuate. A ratio of 10:1 of students-to-instructors is a nice balance. The number of students per instructor may be higher based upon students ages and temperament. Take note of these ratios as visit different gyms with your family to ensure the in student-to-instructor at that gym is sufficient for your child to learn effectively.
Karate is a fun, challenging, and rewarding way for kids to get exercise and push their perceived limitations. You as a parent have a lot to consider before making the financial and mental commitment to any one gym. Use the above tips and considerations to help your family come to the best choice possible. Always remember that just cause you pick on gym, doesn't mean that you'll be there forever. Kids evolve, situations change, and you may need to make changes as your kids get older. Your guiding light should always be to keep your kids physically active and challenged. Check out our other blog posts on navigating these uncertainties as a martial arts parent.
Ready to kickstart your child's Karate journey? Dive into the exciting world of martial arts and let the adventure begin!