Who can do Karate?
Students include children over the age of 7 or 8 (below this they usually lack sufficient attention) and men and women of all ages. Wado's founder, Master Ohtsuka, practised right up to his death at 90 years of age. However, a physical check-up is advisable for overweight or older people or those with adverse medical conditions.
Beginners start training for about 2-3 hours per week, which can be gradually increased to suit their inclination and ability.



Is Karate Dangerous?
Karate should be taught and practiced only in a disciplined manner. This is the reason for the insistence on proper behaviour and strict control that is found in genuine Karate schools.
The dedication needed to learn Karate well develops self-control along with the technical skills and
anyone with a less than genuine interest in it will rapidly be discouraged by the effort required.
Properly taught and practiced Karate is less dangerous than many contact and field sports.


What is done in class?
Every class starts with a warming up and stretching which give the flexibility so important to Karate, as well as preventing injury to muscles and joints.
Basics, i.e. stances and punch and kick movements, are very important and are repeated at all classes over and over again, even by the most senior students.
Combinations are simple sequences of the basic movements, carried out either alone or with a partner.
One of the main features of Karate, some say the essential part, is Kata. Kata consist of sequences of movements assembled in such a way as to bring out their essential features while emphasizing balance, timing, speed and power. They are often very traditional; some have been traced back hundreds of years.
Classes are very much a group activity and are carried out in an atmosphere of respect and discipline.