Pushard's Okinawan Karate Isshinryu Karate · Manchester, Maine

207-622-7373
954 Western Ave., Manchester, ME

Karate for beginners: what to expect

You do not need to be flexible, fit or coordinated to start. Here is exactly what happens when you walk through the door.

Your first visit

The first class, step by step

  1. Arrive ten minutes early. Come in through the front door, leave your shoes at the edge of the mat area, and let an instructor know it is your first time.
  2. Bow as you step onto the mat. It is simply a mark of respect for the training space, not a religious act.
  3. Warm up with the group. Every class starts with a warm-up and stretching. Do what you can; nobody is watching you and nobody is judging.
  4. Learn the basics. Your first class will cover a stance, a block, a punch and a kick — the same building blocks every black belt started with.
  5. Work with a partner. Self-defense drills are done in pairs, usually with a more experienced student guiding a beginner.
  6. Finish with a cool-down and a bow out. Then ask the instructor anything you like. Questions are welcome.

No uniform needed for the trial

For your first month, loose comfortable clothing is fine — a t-shirt and sweatpants or shorts. Once you decide to continue we will help you order a gi (uniform) in the right size.

Choosing a class

Which class is right for your age?

Our youngest students start at three years old. Adults are welcome at any age — our Elite Teen and Adult class includes a noontime session for people who work evenings.

Ages 3–6

Tiny Tigers (3–4) and Little Dragons (5–6) use short, playful classes to build listening skills, coordination and confidence. Parents are welcome to watch.

Class times →

Ages 7–11

Dynamic Karate Kids is the entry point, then students progress through Black-Belt Training and Masters Training, adding weapons and more advanced kicks.

See the syllabus →

Teens and adults

Elite Teen and Adult Training covers the complete Isshinryu syllabus. Adults who mainly want fitness often start with Fitness Kickboxing instead.

Meet the instructors →

Common worries

Things new students ask us

“I am not flexible / not fit enough.”

Flexibility and fitness are results of training, not requirements for it. Every exercise has a beginner version and a more advanced version, and you choose which one to do.

“Am I too old to start?”

No. Our adult classes include complete beginners in their forties, fifties and beyond. Isshinryu technique is built around efficiency and body mechanics rather than youth and athleticism.

“Will my child get hurt?”

Children’s classes are non-contact at the beginner levels, and sparring is introduced gradually with full protective equipment and close instructor supervision. Safety and control are taught from the first class.

“How often should we come?”

Each programme has a suggested weekly attendance — from one or two classes a week for Tiny Tigers up to five for Elite Junior Black Belts. The full list is on the schedule page.

“Do we have to commit to a long contract?”

Start with the free 30-day trial. There is no obligation to continue, and we will explain all of the options in person before you decide anything.

Your first class is free

Thirty days of unrestricted martial arts training worth $100, with no obligation. Fill in the short form and we will call you to book it.

Start your free 30-day trial Contact & directions