Welcome to the No Limits Martial Arts family! We are so happy that you have decided to start your child’s karate journey with us. Your child is at the beginning of an exciting, lifelong relationship with martial arts, and we hope that through our instruction, their dedication, and the camaraderie our community offers that they thrive. If this is their first time in a karate class, there may be a few butterflies in their stomach (or your stomach) regarding what to expect. We have put together some helpful information to let you know what to expect during their first class at the best martial arts studio in Milton and Oakville.
Before the Class
We invite you to arrive fifteen minutes before your child’s first class. That way if there are any questions, we can answer them ahead of time. Please arrive ready to go, with your child in their uniform. We also ask that you bring a water bottle in case they need it during class and especially for re-hydrating after class. When you arrive, one of our Senseis will come to greet you and your child. In Milton, we have Sensei Adam, Sensei Elizabeth, and Sensei Danny, and in Oakville, we have Sensei Elyse and Sensei Helder – though you may see us helping one another out at different studios from time to time. After we have introduced ourselves, it’s time for class. Parents are invited to stay, and take a seat and watch their child’s first karate class.
During Class
New students will bow onto the dojo along with everyone else as they enter the class. We bow to show respect for our school and our practice. A Sensei or student leader will show your child where to put their water bottle and bring them to line up. Students line up in belt order at the beginning of class, and we know your child will be excited to move up this line as they graduate from white belt to yellow belt and onward. At this point, we will introduce your child to the class so they can get to know their new friends, and then start class by reciting the student creed. Don’t worry about needing to have this memorized in your first class; we have it posted up on the wall.
Warm-Up & Stretching
Every class starts with a warm-up and stretching for approximately fifteen minutes. These are key parts of the class that help to develop cardiovascular endurance, improve overall fitness and flexibility, and keep us from getting hurt when practicing karate. We make sure to work hard, but have lots of fun during warm-ups so your child will want to take part. Encourage your child to go at their own pace and to try their best. Everyone has been new at one point, and we know with dedication your child will get faster and stronger in no time.
Karate Class
At No Limits Martial Arts, we practice Goju-Ryu, a form of karate that originated in Okinawa and translates to “hard-soft style.” When we have a new student, we take them through basic moves and stances that are the building blocks of everything they will do all the way up to their black belt. We may also introduce their first kata, taikyoku gedan, and how to do a kiai which is a short, controlled shout to add power. By teaching your child all of this, we are beginning to instill them with confidence, discipline, and dedication, all while they learn a lifelong skill that can help them flourish at home and school.
End of Class
After the fifteen minute warm-up and a half hour class, students come back together from individual and group practice. Everyone lines back up and we end class by bowing and thanking the Senseis. Once again when your child leaves the dojo, they bow, facing the dojo, as a sign of respect. We always make sure to follow up with new students and parents after class to see how things went, answer any questions, and talk about all the fun things we’re going to be doing in future classes.
We hoped this helps prepare you and your child for their first karate class at No Limits Martial Arts. We’re excited to have you as part of the team and start this journey together.
