The Dojos of JKA Victoria run classes according to the needs of the student. We work along demographic lines and try to ensure that everyone receives the same levels of quality instruction. Classes fall into the following categories. These may change depending on the Dojo, please refer to our Dojo Directory and contact the instructor at the particular Dojo you are interested in. For details about the JKA grading syllabus, click here or go to Rank System.

Ankle Fighters and Side-Kix (may be known simply as a children's class at some Dojos)
These are entry-level programs for children under the age of 12 years. Instruction in these classes challenges the student on a different level to that of an adult. Importantly, whilst the JKA syllabus is still strictly followed, there is much more emphasis on the fun aspect and the monotony of repetition is deliberately broken to maintain the kids' attention which is naturally shorter than that of older people.

Beginners
Novices of all ages are very welcome at JKA training. Our Instructors pay particular attention to the early development of all students. The formative lessons of Karate make a lasting impression and are usually remembered for life. These first few months are important in that they set the platform for future learning.

Among other things, we aim to introduce the formalities or "dressage" of the Dojo environment and also try to place a clear mental picture of correct basics in the minds of the student. This together with simple explanations of what is being taught and the positive feedback of the Instructor makes a challenging time quite rewarding for everyone. The JKA syllabus is applied from the very first lesson.

Intermediate
This class is intended for people over 12 years who are of middle colour belt rank, ie 6th Kyu through to 1st Kyu. In these classes, there is a wide and varied technical level present in the class, allowing a good contrast in ability to be displayed in the drills.

Instructors still maintain strict adherence to the JKA syllabus, however new concepts are steadily introduced to complement what is learned. It is during this period that people usually decide whether Karate is a long-term prospect for them. Approaching senior level, the player will also start to develop a feel for a Tokui Waza (preferred technique) which is normally fully expressed at the Black Belt level.

Advanced
JKA Vic advanced classes are open to anyone who holds the rank of 1st Kyu and above. The JKA syllabus is the backbone of this class and training is fast-paced and demanding. Here, those preparing for the Black Belt test have the benefit of sharing the floor with Karateka of advanced rank and are able to receive high level practical experience from their seniors as well as direction from our most senior Instructors. From time to time the advanced class follows a particular theme or emphasises a particular point but generally it provides well-rounded learning in Kihon, Kata and Kumite.

Personal Tuition
JKA Karate is the perfect group activity and our classes provide a great learning environment for students of all ages. For people who require one-on-one tuition, we conduct individual lessons for both adults and children. Personal lessons provide all the benefits of other classes, with some additional advantages;

Convenience This is a good option for those who are unable to attend general classes. One-on-ones can be held at our Dojo or elsewhere by arrangement

Familiarisation Great for people who may have prior experience in another Martial Art or style of Karate

Refresher Course Getting back up to speed after a break from Karate

Preparation Ideal for special attention prior to a grading or competition event.

Accelerated Progress For those who simply want to quicken their progress

Specific Learning For individuals wanting instruction in a specific aspect of Karate not normally covered in a general class.

Expert Tuition Personalised classes are conducted exclusively by our senior JKA Instructors. You can be sure that you will receive the very best Karate instruction available.

Note. Enquiries for Personal Tuition can be made by contacting us directly. Arrangements will be made subject to the availability of our Instructors.

Instructor Program
The Melbourne Hombu Dojo hosts the JKA Victoria Instructor Program. To join, candidates need to meet certain criteria. If these criteria are satisfied, they are invited to take an entry test and if successful they enter the Program at the beginning of the calendar year.

Some JKAA Instructors at the 2003 Australasian seminar in NZ

The Program lasts for 3 years. There are 3 basic and ongoing requirements for Kenchusei (trainee instructors). The first is a commitment to full attendance and participation for the duration of the Program. Secondly, as this special class is not a replacement for other Karate classes, Kenchusei are expected to continue normal Dojo training, and finally, Kenchusei must participate in an outside activity that is complementary to Karate. This could be training with another instructor, or style or strength and speed work in a gymnasium or even private practice in Tokui Waza.

The core activity of the JKA Vic Instructor Program is intensive repetitive training in pre-determined monthly training drills. In this class, the Instructor is not detached from the class as may be the case in general classes, rather he becomes a leader and fully participates with the other members. It is a forum of accelerated learning and detailed tuition where, among other things, the finer points of Karate are explained.

In the final months of the program, Kenchusei are given specific guidance in how to clearly impart their knowledge as an Instructor. This phase entails a detailed debriefing and summary of the entire course. At this point we focus on the relationships the new instructor will have with his own students and encourage them to develop their own interpretations of JKA waza.

Since its inception in 1983, many hopefuls have commenced the Instructor Program, but only a handful have met the 3 basic requirements and completed it. Graduates automatically become life members of the JKA Melbourne Hombu Dojo. For details relating to the JKA Victoria Instructors Program, please contact us.

Home

Copyright © Japan Karate Association of Australia (Victoria) Limited 2003