General Info

York Shotokan Mixed Martial Arts Thank you for your interest in our program. The York Shotokan Mixed Martial Arts is dedicated to providing the finest Martial Arts and self-defense training available, and has been doing so for over Forty years. We will be happy to answer any specific questions about our school and philosophy, and hope that the following information will be helpful to you. What is Shotokan Karate? This is a particular style of karate that was developed in Okinawa and Japan by Master Gichin Funakoshi in the early to mid Twentieth Century. It is based on concepts that have been in existence for thousands of years. Karate emphasizes strong, accurate techniques, using all parts of the body for defense and attack. Philosophically, Shotokan considers your mind to be your best defense and best weapon, and fighting is only to be used as a last resort. When are classes? Classes are held from 7: 00 to 8: 30 P.M., Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays for both basic and advanced students. There is also a class on some Saturday mornings for interested students from 9: 00 to approximately 10: 30 AM. Students must sign up for Saturday classes during the week prior to the class. What are the fees? The monthly fee is $60, which includes all classes. The second member from the same family would pay $25; any additional members pay $15 each. There are no belt test fees. Dues are to be paid on the first of each month. Must I sign a contract? York Shotokan Karate does not require a contract. Students may stop training at any time, but we expect dues to be paid as long as you are a member of the school, even if you voluntarily do not attend classes. The instructors at the York Shotokan Mixed Martial Arts are all volunteers who give their time to pass on the art to interested students. Day to day expenses for the school continues whether or not an individual student decides to attend every class or once a month. When can I start? We require all students (and a parent if the student is a minor) to observe a class and complete an application prior to starting training. A student may start at any time during the month; fees are pro-rated. Minimum age for children is seven. We also require two photographs of the student with the application. Are there separate classes for adults and children? We do have children's classes for ages 4-7 years. "Regular"classes are open to ages 8 and up, and individuals are paired with partners of similar size for drills, sparring, etc. Karate is very individual sport, and the abilities, goals, etc. of each student are within themselves, and not dependent on the person training next to them. We also have many families with adults and their children who enjoy having the ability to train together.