Karate comes from the Japanese word “Kara” (empty) and “te” (hands) meaning the art of Empty Hands. It is a dynamic martial art that involves a variety of techniques with an ingenious use of the body.

The practices will be organized around three foundations of Shotokan Karate:
• Fundamental techniques (basics, Kihon)
• Structured movements (forms, Kata)
• Facing one or multiple opponents (sparring, Kumite)

The emphasis during practice will be on developing:
• Physical agility and body movements
• Mental focus
• Self-awareness, decision-making and defensive responses in difficult situations
• Karate tournament skills
• Advanced movements and methods (feeling and connecting with the opponent, timing and distancing assessments, executing effective and efficient techniques)

A karate do-gi (uniform) is recommended (not required) for practice. This will be available at the start of the session for $40 (for all sizes and includes the belt).

About the Instructor: Hashmat Khan has been practicing karate for over 25 years and is a Yodan (fourth-degree black belt in a system of five degrees) with Canada Shotokan Karate (non-profit) which is affiliated with Shotokan Karate of America (non-profit). He is the Dojo Leader of the Ottawa West Karate Dojo. He has participated in many technical clinics, regional and international tournaments and events in Canada, U.S., Japan, Spain, and France, and completed 41 Special Trainings in Canada, U.S., and France. He started the London Dojo, U.K., during 2002-2005 before returning to Ottawa. He was the Leader of Canada East Summer Special Training at Bishop’s University, Quebec, in 2012, 2016, and 2018. Hashmat is an Associate Vice-President (Academic Programs and Strategic Initiatives) and a Full Professor at Carleton University.

A formal Canada Shotokan Karate (CSK) Grading (rank, Kyu test) is held two times a year. This requires an annual (January-December) CSK membership. New Member Dues are $75. The benefits of membership also include access to special clinics and trainings, practices with any Canadian and International dojos, participation in domestic and international tournaments, and opportunities to engage with a worldwide network of karate practitioners from a variety of professions and backgrounds.

Register

Registration by phone or in person is on available during our hours of operation. Register online 24/7. To register in person, visit our Welcome Centre in the Alumni Hall.