The Open Class is for first graders through adults. It is an hour long class with emphasizes on traditional Karate skills of kicking, blocking and punching, kata, physical fitness, basic Japanese commands, proper Karate etiquette and good sportsmanship. Sparring is also part of the curriculum of Open Class.
Sparring at the school follows traditional AAU and WKF guidelines. These guidelines emphasize speed , accuracy and most of all control. Full contact is allowed at the school. Students under the age of 16 wear full gear during sparring: chest protection, head protections, mouth guard, and gloves. The adults must wear a mouth guard and gloves when sparring, with some women additionally choosing to wear chest protection.
At various times throughout the year students are invited to join in on specific skill workshops or camps. There is a Christmas mini-camp, week-long summer camp, and several other self-defense and bully-buster camps. These offer a unique opportunity for additional training and more time to develop friendships.
Sensei (teacher in Japanese) believes in an atmosphere of “friends and family” while in the dojo (sacred learning hall). The program is set up so family members can train together, this allows them to share the experience along with the time one another.
If you are interested in Open Class, please contact Sensei Ken Valentine at 618-560-9529.
Open Class training is available at both dojos during the following times:
Belleville: Currently Closed
Columbia: Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.