Dynamics 365 iconoUR Karate club

The Kilkenny Shotokan Karate Club (KSKC) is for people interested in developing a practical and applied understanding of karate.  Our focus is on linking the practices of basics (Kihon), forms (Kata), sparring (Kumite), and self-defence (Goshin Jutsu).  Instead of looking at each of these areas as individual areas of study, we look to identify how these areas inform each other, and holistically improve our own understanding of karate. 

Whilst we use Shotokan as our foundation martial art, we look to other forms and practices to help understand, and improve our own practices.  We do not focus on Sport Karate, although we do provide some training just for variation and completeness of training.

For us, Karate is not simple just about developing physical abilities, but about developing the individual as a whole. As Funakoshi said, karate is about the ‘perfection of character’ above all else.  To help us in that endeavour we look to our guiding principles of behaviour, or ‘Dojo Kun’.

Dojo Kun

These are the guiding principles of behaviour to which we, as karate-ka, hold ourselves accountable.  All students should know the Dojo Kun.

  • Seek perfection of character.
  • Be honest and true.
  • Endeavor in what we do.
  • Be respectful of others.
  • Refrain from violent behaviour.

When Training in the Dojo (Training Hall)

When training together it is important to bear in mind a few additional considerations.

  • When arriving at the Dojo try to ensure you are on-time.  However, we understand that life is busy for many, so getting to training on-time may not always be easy.  If you do happen to be late, don’t worry, just enter to Dojo quietly, and kneel down at the side of the class, and for the instructor to invite you to join in (see ‘Lateness’ under ‘Dojo Etiquette’ below).
  • Our training partner is there to help us develop, and we are there to help them develop.  We should never see our training partners are competitors to be beaten, but as someone whom we can develop, and grow with.
  • When we train with a partner, we must be respectful and measured in our practice. Using to much force, or lack of control can be seen as being disrespectful to our partner.
  • When we practice with a partner remember to bow before, and after completing the practice.
  • Remember, the person applying a technique is referred to as ‘Tori’, and the person receiving the technique is referred to as ‘Uke’.
  • Be sure to wear appropriate training gear, and to remove all jewellery.  Also ensure your hand and toe-nails are clean and short.  A uniform is not required for beginners, who may practice in loose-fitting, body concealing clothes (e.g.: sweat suits).
  • Uniforms/clothing must be clean and in good repair.
  • Feet must be clean, and toenails and fingernails should be kept short.
  • No jewellery (watches, rings, earrings, bracelets or necklaces) may be worn.
  • Also, it is important to refrain from eating, chewing gum, or drinking whilst on the dojo floor.  All students should bring some water with them to the dojo in order to rehydrate during their training.  This can be done during the break.