FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

We’ve tried to answer as many of your questions as possible in this section.
However, if you require more information, please feel free to contact us.
Why should I practice karate? What will I learn?
What do I wear Who will teach me?
How fit do I have to be? Am I too old?
Is karate suitable for children? Is karate suitable for women?
How long must I train before I can defend myself? When do we get to free spar / do I have to fight?
Will I have to compete in tournaments? What do I call the teacher?
Why do we have to bow? What are the belts (grades) in karate and how long
How often should I train? How much does it cost?
Will I get hurt? What do I do next?

🔹 Why should I practice karate?

Karate training enhances strength, stamina, flexibility, balance, and mental focus. With continued practice, you will gain:

  • Fitness
  • Confidence
  • Flexibility
  • Improved reflexes
  • Coordination
  • Muscle strength
  • Relaxation
  • Discipline
  • Etiquette
  • Respect for all
  • Strength of character

It trains the mind and body, builds discipline and willpower, and helps with self-awareness and self-defence.

🔹 What will I learn?

We teach traditional Wado Karate in a safe, respectful environment.
Our syllabus includes:

  • Kihon Waza – Foundational techniques (punches, kicks, blocks)
  • Renkei Waza – Combination techniques
  • Kumitē (Ippon, Ohyo, Kihon) – Two-person drills
  • Kata – Formal sequences
  • Jiyū Kumitē – Free sparring (for advanced students)

Wado emphasizes defence, timing, and using an opponent’s force against them.

🔹 What do I wear?

To start:
Wear loose, comfortable clothing (e.g. T-shirt and tracksuit trousers).

Later:
You can purchase a karate gi (white cotton uniform).

🔹 Who will teach me?

Our instructors are high-ranking, ONAKAI-registered, and Garda vetted, with years of experience.

🔹 How fit do I need to be?

You don’t need to be fit to start — most people begin karate to improve their fitness.
Wado Karate is suitable for all fitness levels. If concerned, consult your GP before training.

🔹 Am I too old?

No! Many karateka train well into their 80s or 90s.
We adjust training for older students. If you’re over 35 or haven’t exercised recently, consult your GP first.

🔹 Is karate suitable for children?

Yes! We accept children from age 7.
Karate helps children develop discipline, coordination, and self-confidence.
We run special kids’ classes tailored to their age and ability.

🔹 Is karate suitable for women?

Yes. Wado is a softer, more technical style — ideal for women.
It builds body awareness, self-defence skills, confidence, and physical fitness.

🔹 How long until I can defend myself?

It depends on your effort, consistency, and natural ability.
The longer you train, the more capable you become.

🔹 Do I have to spar or fight?

No.
Free sparring (kumite) is introduced gradually and only when you’re ready.
Sparring is always controlled and optional.

🔹 Do I have to compete in tournaments?

No. Competition is optional.
If you’re interested, we offer training and support for competition karate.

🔹 What do I call my instructor?

  • Instructors from 3rd Dan and up are called Sensei (meaning “teacher”).
  • Senior students (below 3rd Dan) may be addressed as Sempai (meaning “senior”).

🔹 Why do we bow?

Bowing is a gesture of respect and humility, common in Eastern traditions.
It reminds us to be respectful, honour our dojo, and focus our mind for training.

🔹 What are the karate grades and belts?

You begin as a white belt, progressing through kyū (student) and then dan (black belt) ranks.

Kyū Grades:

  • 9th Kyū – Red
  • 8th Kyū – Yellow
  • 7th Kyū – Orange
  • 6th Kyū – Green
  • 5th Kyū – Blue
  • 4th Kyū – Purple
  • 3rd Kyū – Brown (Junior)
  • 2nd Kyū – Brown (Middle)
  • 1st Kyū – Brown (Senior)

Dan Grades:

  • 1st Dan and above – Black belt

Students usually grade every 3–6 months at the start, depending on progress.

🔹 How often should I train?

One class per week is fine to start.
As you improve, training more often will help you develop faster.

🔹 How much does it cost?

  • First class: Free
  • Afterwards: €5 (children), €6 (adults)
  • You’ll need a license record book (renewed annually) if you continue.

🔹 Will I get hurt?

Karate is taught in a controlled environment.
Injuries are rare and usually minor (e.g. bruises or muscle soreness).
The risk is much lower than in most contact sports.

🔹 What do I do next?

Just show up and try it!
Your first class is free. Bring:

  • Comfortable clothes (e.g. tracksuit & T-shirt)
  • A bottle of water

If you have more questions, contact us.