Sensei Takayuki Mikami, 9th dan | since 1961
504-835-6825
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS KARATE?
Karate is a traditional self-defense martial art from Japan which uses punches, kicks, strikes and blocking techniques. Our style, Shotokan, is characterized by large movements and strong focus (deliberate, concentrated moments of muscle contraction).
WHO CAN TRAIN KARATE?
Everyone! All are welcome regardless of fitness level or martial arts experience. We offer classes to children 4 and up as well as adults of all ages.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO MY FIRST CLASS?
Comfortable athletic clothes are recommended. Karate is practiced barefoot, so no footwear is required.
WHERE CAN I GET A KARATE UNIFORM?
Beginners receive a free karate uniform (gi) with their first month's regular membership. Additional gis may be purchased through the club
WHEN CAN I START?
Now! Arrive a few minutes early to any of our classes listed for Beginners or All Levels, if you are new to karate. Call 504-835-6825 with any questions.
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
You'll begin learning basic techniques (kihon) for punching, kicking and blocking. You will also learn kata (forms), a series of prearranged movements that represent defenses against an imaginary attacker. You will also practice partner work, beginning with prearranged blocks and punches where both partners know what the other will do. As you continue, you will learn advanced techniques & combinations and gradually work to being able to free spar with control.
WHAT ABOUT COMPETITIONS?
Tournaments are not required, although opportunities to compete are certainly available, and we encourage them as a way to set goals & improve. Our dojo hosts the All South tournament, the longest running traditional karate tournament in the US, as well as the JKA/AF National Championships.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Dues are $100/month for adults and $90/month for children. A second family member who joins will receive a 10% discount. Students are welcome to train as many classes as they wish. Come and try your first class free.
IS THERE A CONTRACT?
No contracts are required at LKA.
DO I NEED TO BE YOUNG OR IN GOOD SHAPE TO START?
No, karate is an art for all people, regardless of age, size, strength or fitness level. Many students begin to train later in life or may not be at their optimal fitness level when they begin. Training karate will certainly help you work towards your fitness goals, whether it be losing weight, gaining strength, building cardio fitness, improving flexibility, balance & posture and more!
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PRACTICING KARATE?
Through training karate, you will not only learn self-defense and improve your physical fitness but also improve your sense of wellbeing in many other aspects of life. Skills developed in karate carry over to other areas of life, practitioners have improved confidence and discipline, a greater respect for themselves & others, and an ability to maintain clarity of the mind when faced with stress
GET IN TOUCH
706-C Phosphor Ave
Metairie, LA 70005
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504-835-6825