How fit do I need to be to start Karate?

You can start Karate at any fitness level. Beginners of varying fitness levels can join and instructors will work with individuals to improve their physical condition through training. Samurai Karate Croydon’s classes accommodate all fitness levels with an emphasis on technique, flexibility and strength development.

Do you have beginner only classes?

Samurai Karate Croydon has separate classes for every level of skill. This means you begin in a class with karateka of similar ability. You progress through the levels of our school as you pass your gradings.

For your first class at Samurai Karate Croydon, you can wear casual clothes. We recommend athletic wear that is easy to move in. After your first class you will wear a traditional Karate uniform called a ‘gi’. At Samurai Karate Croydon we wear a traditional white gi which consists of a jacket ‘uwagi’ and pants ‘zubon’ secured with a belt ‘obi’. When commencing training you will be given a white belt.

What are the basic karate moves for beginners?

Item: Samurai Karate Croydon
Rating: 5
Author: Chuck Hucket

Karate is built on a foundation of fundamental techniques that form the basis of all advanced moves. For beginners, learning these core techniques is essential for building skill, confidence, and understanding the art of karate. At Samurai Karate Croydon, we focus on guiding beginners through these basic moves with patience and encouragement, ensuring they develop a strong and balanced foundation. Our approach to martial arts training for beginners ensures that each student receives the support they need to progress confidently in their journey.

Stances (Dachi)

Stances are the starting point for all karate movements, providing stability and power. Beginners typically learn:

Zenkutsu Dachi (Front Stance): A forward-facing stance for stability and striking.
Kiba Dachi (Horse Stance): A wide, low stance for balance and strength.
Kokutsu Dachi (Back Stance): A defensive stance for quick movements.

Stances help develop proper posture, balance, and readiness for action.

Strikes (Tsuki)

Striking techniques are an integral part of karate, focusing on precision and power. Beginners often start with:

Choku Tsuki (Straight Punch): A direct punch using the fist.
Gyaku Tsuki (Reverse Punch): A punch delivered with the rear hand for added force.
Uraken (Back Fist Strike): A quick strike using the back of the fist.

These strikes teach control, coordination, and the importance of proper form.

Blocks (Uke)

Blocking techniques are vital for defense, enabling practitioners to deflect attacks effectively. Key blocks for beginners include:

Gedan Barai (Low Block): Used to protect against strikes to the lower body.
Age Uke (Rising Block): A block to deflect overhead strikes.
Soto Uke (Outside Block): A defensive move to block attacks from the side.

Blocks are practiced repeatedly to build reflexes and precision.

Kicks (Geri)

Kicks add versatility to karate techniques and are highly effective in self-defense. Beginners typically learn:

Mae Geri (Front Kick): A straightforward kick targeting the opponent’s midsection.
Yoko Geri (Side Kick): A powerful kick delivered from the side.
Ushiro Geri (Back Kick): A defensive kick aimed at opponents behind you.

Kicks enhance flexibility, balance, and coordination.

Forms (Kata)

Kata are pre-arranged sequences of movements that simulate combat scenarios. Beginners start with basic forms that help them understand flow, technique, and rhythm.

Begin Your Karate Journey

At Samurai Karate Croydon, our instructors take pride in teaching these foundational techniques in an engaging and supportive environment. We ensure every beginner feels confident as they learn and progress at their own pace.

Book a 2-Week Free Karate Trial to visit our dojo, meet our instructors, and experience the art of karate firsthand. Let us guide you through your first steps in this exciting and rewarding martial art!