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Karate training is, at the least, good exercise. Unlike other repetitive activities, karate training is continually challenging, stimulating and especially purposeful. One of the greatest attributes of karate is that anyone, irrespective of age, size and gender, can practice and appreciate the art according to their personal abilities.

The Central Edmonton Karate-Do program is comprised of Kata (Forms), Kihon (Basics), Kumite (Sparring), Kobudo (Weapons) Self-Defense, Conditioning and Stretching. In addition students are encouraged to participate in numerous seminars and tournaments held each year. And, finally our program includes testing and advancement opportunities towards achieving the rank of Black Belt.

Stretching
Stretching is beneficial to both karate training and everyday life activities. The more flexible we are, the more agile our bodies become and the less likely we are to be injuried. Karate classes start with warm-up and light stretching; and end with stretching. Students learn a variety of general stretching techniques and are coached on those required for their unique needs. Students are also encouraged to include stretching as part of their day to day routine.

Conditioning
Several conditioning drills are incorporated into our classes that compliment karate training by further strengthing our bodies.

Self-Defense
Karate is best known as a self-defense martial art. Everything you learn in Karate can be applied in a defensive situation. Self-defense training in our dojo focuses on practical understanding and application of defense techniques.

Kobudo (Weaponry)
Common weapons studed by Genbukai students include Bo, Tonfa, Sai, Nunchaku, Kama, and Sword. Weapons are an extension of the techniques each student performs in regular training, and therefore are generally not taught until a student has acquired the basic skills required to safely perform weapons training manoeuvres. As soon as students gain proficiency in the introductory forms of these weapons, they may begin learning Katana (sword of the samurai). The art of drawing the sword is called Iai-Do, and like the other weapons is practised through the performance of kata. Visit our International web site to learn about our Kobudo roots.

Seminars & Tournaments
Genbukai Canada hosts several tournaments each year within Alberta and Saskatchewan. There are also two international tournaments members of our organization have supported for many years. These take place in February and October of each year in Santa Ana, California. Tournaments are a recommended part of your complete training but are not required.

Each year in early May, Demura Sensei travels to Lloydminster to instruct a special series of weekend seminars that all Genbukai members are invited to attend. Attendance at this event is strongly encouraged. News of upcoming based seminars and tournaments will be posted on our homepage.

Testing
Students are eligible for testing only when their Sensei notifies them of the same. Not everyone progresses at the same rate, so length of time to reach the black belt ranks is different for each individual. How much time and effort you commit to your training determines your rate of advancement. Read the Genbukai Grading System handout for details.