Quoted:
Quoted: I've got access to reasonably priced Karate classes that are very convienent.
Is Shodokan worthwhile? Pretty much the only thing I know is hitting the Wiki on it.
Thanks!
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Its all up to you in the end. I think you should shop around and find a class that works for you though, being expensive does not mean its the best in another word. |
I agree, if you are in an area with more than one dojo, visit as many as possible before making your decision. To me it is a decision similar to buying a house, car, or taking a new job. Not to frighten you, but it's not one to take lightly. Just research, make an informed decision, and don't allow yourself to be rushed or pressured into it.
Almost all will offer you at least 1 free introductory class. Take as many as you can. Don't base on style as much as the overall feeling you get when visiting. These are some things I would recommend looking for in whatever style you choose:
1. See how the instructor treats the students and interacts with them. An instructor can be respected by the students without being abusive or mean towards them. I have seen and heard some things about martial arts instructors that have done some pretty wrong things towards students and trying to pass it off as "discipline" or making them "tough" etc. Avoid that at all costs. Yes it will likely be demanding physically, but there are lines not to be crossed. Is the instructor patient and helpful with newer students or students that seem to need additional guidance. Very important, in case you need extra help starting out.
2. Make a list of questions you would like to ask, if you have to sign a contract, how long, how much per month, if there is a "processing" or "sign up" fee (can be expensive), uniforms, belt testing fees, equipment. One place here has a "processing fee", then makes you buy all your uniforms and equipment there, at higher prices than you would get online, etc, then pay for promotions or "belt tests". Sure, they have to make a buck, but you have the right to know about any policies like that. Ask the instructor where they trained, how long they have been training, who they studied under, if they still continue to learn, etc. Anyone with real credentials will be more than happy to answer that. There is a lot of pride in long term study and achievement. If they get weird about it, thank them for their time and move on. I'm proud as hell where I trained, and I'd tell anyone that asked me, and offer them to call and verify it with my former instructor.
3. See how the students interact with each other. It's a good sign when senior or more experienced students are helpful towards others, and not using them as punching bags. Get a feel for how you think you would fit in (like make sure it's not a bunch of kids, nothing wrong with kids training, but I think adults will get the most from training with other adults).
4. Make sure it looks like a safe training environment. I went to one place that had a big office carpet over a bunch of old cardboard boxes for a mat. The walls were paneling, no padding and no real space between the training mat and the walls. I wondered how many people crashed into the walls and got hurt. You'll want to see a good mat in good shape, and that everything looks clean. MSRA/staph has been a lot more common the last few years. I'm not saying to be a snob about places, but you do need to make sure you will be safe and healthy during training.
I'll probably think of more. To answer the original question about the style, I'm no authority on karate, but I would ask what your level of fitness is, and what you hope to get out of training. Just an example, if you're in LE, you'll probably want a different style that would be geared more towards restraining or grappling than striking.
ETA: TheWind makes some very good points, especially with the mention of Filipino arts, if you're interested in using weapons as a part of self defense, they do knife and stick training.