Karate FAQ / Common Questions

karate class cottesloe

A typical Goju Ryu Karate class practicing kihon or basics

Sensei Terry Lyon answers frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Karate in general and his Karate classes in particular.
The questions and answers are in particular interesting for beginners in Karate.

If your question is not answered here, please send it to webmaster@lyon-karate.com or use our contact form.

Questions

Click on each link for a detailed answer.
Q: How fit do I need to be to start Karate?
Q: Do you have beginners-only classes?
Q: What do I wear? Do I need a Karate Gi?
Q: Are the classes large – how many people are in it?
Q: Am I too old to start Karate?
Q: What are the injury risks for Karate?
Q: How long before I can use my Karate skills?
Q: I have back, shoulder, knee problems … can I still do Karate?
Q: What can I expect from Traditional Okinawan GoJu-Ryu Karate – what are the benefits?
Q: Where is your Dojo and when are your classes?
Q: What is a Karate Kata and what is its purpose?
Q: Do you have a belt system and what do the colours mean?