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Frequently Asked Questions

 

What is Shotokan Karate?

Shotokan karate is a Japanese system of karate that originated from Okinawa and was brought to Japan by Gichin Funakoshi in the early 1920s.

 

Its main emphasis is the character development of the individual student. It is a "hard style" form of karate which emphasizes the explosive delivery of each technique using the entire body system to maximize impact force.

 

Shotokan karate is a very structured style and it is practiced very close if not exactly the same from one karate dojo or school to the next wherever it is being practiced in the world.

 

What's the difference between Shotokan, Tae Kwon Do, or Kung Fu?

One of the main differences is that Shotokan Karate is Japanese based whereas Tae Kwon Do is Korean (even though it was derived originally from the Shotokan style). As opposed to most Korean styles where kicking techniques are more emphasized, in the Shotokan system of karate, hand techniques are emphasized slightly more than kicking techniques. Kung Fu is a Chinese soft style martial art that uses multiple strikes to stop an opponent whereas karate is a hard style that focuses on using one or only a few techniques to stop an opponent.

 

Is there grappling or weapons training in Shotokan Karate?

There is grappling as found in the forms and the applications of the forms which are practiced during the course of training. Weapons training will not be part of the curriculum at our dojo.  Sweeping and throwing techniques are also a big part of the Shotokan system, whatever would render the opponent off balance or to be taken down to the ground, these are usually followed by a strike to disable the attacker.

 

Is Karate good for my health?

Because Karate involves both stretching and cardiovascular exercise, it is extremely good for your health. Furthermore, unlike many other activities, Karate uses almost all muscle groups. This means that your body becomes very well balanced rather than overworked in specific muscle groups.

 

Where is the dojo located?

The Dojo is located in the Meridian building at 9700 El Camino Real on the second floor in the rear of the building, Atascadero, California, next to the Atascadero Post Office.

 

Physical Address:

9700 El Camino Real Suite #201

Atascadero, California 93422 (click for map)

Phone: 805-712-2010

Email: atascaderoshotokan@gmail.com

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