So, you are interested in starting karate. Maybe you are not quite sure, but it does sound good. What should you do? For starters, shop around. In choosing any martial art school, we suggest you visit several places and consider several aspects.
In Regards to WWSKC...
Is it conveniently located, near my commute, close to home or work?
WWSKC is located near SR-520 making it convenient for people living in Bellevue, Redmond and Kirkland. Many of our students come also from Seattle, Woodinville, Issaquah and Sammamish and as far as North Bend. Click here for directions.
Is it a safe place?
The WWSKC is located near many businesses like BMW dealership, Car Toys, etc. It is located inside a business center with plenty of parking space.
Are you allowed to watch a regular class?
Make sure it is not an introductory or advanced class, those do not represent what you would experience. If you are not allowed to watch a regular class, be careful.
How could you know if you like it? Visitors and spectators are welcome to watch classes but are asked not to talk, whisper or eat during the sessions. The best classes to see are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 6:30pm to 7:45pm.
Do you see other people like you?
Most of the time it will surprise to find that people just like you are training. Consider their age, gender, body type, etc. We have kids as young as 6 years old. Adults older than 60. Consider that the ISKF Chief Instructor is 70+. Some of us are getting in shape, others are in great form. There are about as many females as males.
Do you like how people behave before, during and after class?
People at the WWSKC are always courteous and nice. Before and after class some folks like to chat, others stay apart stretching, etc.
Do you like how students address the teacher?
In Karate, students address our senior students as sempai, our teachers as sensei. We have great respect for our instructors and we always try to show it.
Do you like how the teacher treats the students? Is she patient?
We have very experienced instructors. They are very patient, and know very well how and when to push the students depending on individual experience, capabilities and drive.
Ask for monthly fee, inquiry about the other 'expected' costs.
We have a monthly fee and a special plan for families. There are additional fees for seminars and tests. Also consider the cost of the karate uniform and belt, which you can buy anywhere. Stop by the WWSKC for details.
Is it a full-contact or no-contact? Do you mind bruises?
WWSKC is non-contact, which means the attacker stops the technique a short distance before touching his partner. The defender does make contact to block or redirect the attack.
Feel free to ask questions after class (please do not interrupt an ongoing class)
More questions? Email us, we will be happy to assist you.