Class Times
Tuesday evenings: 7:30-9:30PM
Saturday afternoons: 2:00-4:00PM (adjusted seasonally)
For more information on Karate Providence and Okinawan Goju-ryu karate, please send an e-mail to info@karateprovidence.com.
What is karate and how is it different from other martial arts?
Karate is an art of self-defense where practitioners employ defensive and offensive techniques primarily using their hands and feet (for blocks, strikes, and kicks), though other parts of the body may also be used. Most Americans think that karate comes from Japan, but in Japan, Okinawa is known as the “home” of karate. It is not considered a grappling art like judo or jujutsu, though some techniques may be used for “trapping” or subduing an attacker on the ground. Styles of karate and karate-like martial arts, such as Korean tae-kwon-do, may differ in their proportion of upper and lower body techniques. Styles may also differ in their orientation towards inside/close range or outside/distance fighting situations.
How does Okinawan Goju-ryu different from other karate styles?
Goju-ryu is one of the four original systems of Okinawan karate, regarded as a national art by the Okinawan people. Tracing its roots to southern China, Goju-ryu karate training is geared toward developing internal “chi” and external power. It utilizes both hard and soft movements, performed both quickly and slowly, and employs principles of dynamic tension in breathing while applying technique. It is a mainly upright upper-body style, also known for its circular patterns of movement, and is particularly effective in close range conflict.
Is any special knowledge or training needed to study?
No special knowledge is needed. A student’s size, weight, strength, level of fitness, and previous knowledge are all factors that must be taken into consideration while training. Care is taken to ensure an appropriate balance between aerobic and non-aerobic activity, and that a student develops self-awareness to maximize progress while remaining cognizant of physical limitations. The ultimate goal is the strengthening and integration of mind, body, and spirit through steady training and practice.
Do you offer opportunities to compete or enter tournaments?
As a traditional Okinawan Goju-ryu school, the training and techniques practiced in this class do not lend themselves to sport karate or competition. We do not participate in tournaments, but may on occasion participate in formal demonstrations.
Is there any free-fighting or sparring in the class?
We do not engage in free-fighting (randori or jiyu-kumite). We do, however, practice applications with a training partner in a controlled way, through one, two, and three step exercises and drills. Many traditional masters structured their classes and training regimens so that students could help each other. The general training orientation emphasizes physical and mental conditioning, strong basics and proper attitude.
What is a kata?
A kata is a series of movements performed by a practitioner that incorporates the defensive and offensive techniques contained within a particular style as applied against an imaginary opponent. Kata is the core element of karate practice and embodies the essence of the art.
Are there different classes for adults or children?
Our class welcomes beginners, novices, intermediate and advanced students, who all train together at the same time. As students progress, they may occasionally be grouped separately for practice of more advanced forms and techniques.
Do I need any special training gear or equipment?
No special equipment of gear is needed. Loose fitting clothes or gym apparel can be worn, though once a student joins the class, he/she is expected to wear a uniform (called a gi) which includes a jacket, pants, and a belt. The Instructor can supply uniforms consistent with a student’s budget.
Is there anything else I should know?
Some say that “the secret is in training the mind…”