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Here is more information about Senshi Karate. By participating in our classes, you agree to the following:

New to karate?	Beginners and new students are always welcome. Contact us to discuss.
What ages do you take?	7 is our minimum age. We find children younger than that struggle with coordination, discipline & concentration. There’s no maximum age but be realistic. If you start karate when you’re older, you won’t be as fast as your 20-year-old self but you can still get to black belt.
Must I be fit?	No, you can increase your fitness as you go, but you must consult a doctor if you have physical or mental issues that could worsen during training.
Will I get injured?	We teach to a high standard and take precautions to minimise injury. But karate carries inherent risks of injury, such as sprains, strains, bruises, cuts and, in rare cases, broken bones. We are not liable for any injury or loss sustained while participating in our classes, except if we are negligent.
Are the instructors DBS / CRB checked.	Yes, of course. All instructors have undergone the Enhanced DBS checks and have undertaken training.
What is your approach to safeguarding & wellbeing?	We place the utmost importance on the wellbeing of all our students and have a robust approach to safeguarding. Here is our policy. Our Wellbeing Manager is also the Wellbeing Manager for our association, Shotokan Connect, and advises on diversity, inclusion and safeguarding.
Who is responsible?	We prioritise the safety of our students. While we strive to provide a safe learning environment, we can’t eliminate all risks. Follow instructions. You must stop any painful or uncomfortable activity. Take responsibility for your own and others’ safety in class. Be kind to one another and remember we are friends practising controlled karate.
Are you insured?	Yes, the club and the instructors are all insured. Also, you must be insured too via your Shotokan Connect licence.
Why do I need a licence?	Your Shotokan Connect licence provides you with limited personal accident insurance & loss of earnings coverage. Also, without it, you can’t grade, attend courses & competitions or visit other Shotokan Connect clubs. You must obtain this directly from Shotokan Connect (not us).
Is Senshi Karate family friendly?	Yes. It is run by a family and is ideal for families. Parents and children can and do train alongside each other.
Can I wear jewellery?	No. You must remove jewellery or cover it with tape or a sweatband, including earrings, nose rings, bracelets, necklaces, anklets, watches. This reduces the chance of them snagging during training and causing injury.
Can I wear shoes?	We train barefoot. If your doctor advises you to wear socks or shoes, ensure they are appropriate for karate to reduce the likelihood of injury.
How often can I grade?	We generally run gradings every 4 months. The instructor will tell you if you’re ready to grade.
Why can’t I grade quicker?	We teach quality karate. Other associations may allow quick progression, but you’ll learn little. Stick with us, work hard and earn your belts when you’re ready.
How long before the average person gets to black belt?	The average person doesn’t get to black belt. They quit long before that. If you are driven, focused and train three times a week and are good enough, you might earn your black belt in 5-7 years. Remember, black belt is just the beginning.
What do the Japanese terms mean?	Senshi Karate and Shotokan Connect use Japanese terminology. Not sure what the terms mean? Try this glossary.
What style of karate do you teach?	Shotokan under the Shotokan Connect syllabus.
How can I be sure Senshi Karate classes are good quality?	Senshi Karate has experienced instructors who prioritise karate over money. All gradings follow quality standards set externally by Shotokan Connect.
Who are Shotokan Connect?	Shotokan Connect are a group of dedicated practitioners of Shotokan Karate, many with senior grades and decades of experience of training, competing and teaching karate.
What are the benefits of karate?	Karate is good for the body, the spirit and the mind. Here are 13 reasons why you and your child should take karate classes: 1. Fitness & flexibility 2. Improved posture and coordination 3. Complements ballet, football, dance,  musical theatre 4. Mental resilience 5. Family time 6. Friendships 7. Fun 8. Discipline & focus 9. Self-confidence & respect 10. Memory 11. Teamwork 12. Goal setting 13. Self-defence

What order are the belts?