Question 1

What style of karate do you teach?

Accepted Answer

Every student at Lawrence World Class Karate practices both traditional Japanese Shotokan and Okinawan Gōjū-ryū karate, taught as they have been for generations. We are firmly rooted in the spirit of authentic karate, and students learn the philosophy behind every kata as well as the technique.

Question 2

Is karate good for beginners?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every black belt started as a white belt. Beginners learn step by step, at their own pace, and our students compete only against themselves, not each other.

Question 3

What age can my child start karate?

Accepted Answer

Children can start at age 4. We have a class for ages five and under on Wednesdays, beginner and advanced classes for ages 6 to 12 during the week, and all-belt classes for ages 12 and under on Fridays and Saturdays.

Question 4

Can adults start karate with no experience?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Our students range in age from 4 to 80, and many adults start with no martial arts background at all. Classes build fitness, flexibility, and skill gradually, so you can begin at any fitness level.

Question 5

Can parents train with their kids?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many families train together at Lawrence World Class Karate. Our all-ages, all-belts classes on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday mornings and Tuesday afternoons are a great way for parents and kids to practice side by side.

Question 6

What should I bring to my first class?

Accepted Answer

Wear something comfortable you can move in and bring a bottle of water. Arrive a few minutes early so you can meet Hanshi Lawrence and see the dojo before class begins.

Question 7

What happens in a typical karate class?

Accepted Answer

Every class starts with stretching and breathing techniques to loosen muscles and tendons, followed by exercises that build fitness and endurance. The class often completes a key kata with health and self-defense benefits, then works on new katas, techniques, drills, and kobudo (traditional weapons). The instructor closes with a final message.

Question 8

Do you teach students with disabilities?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Everyone is welcome at our dojo. Students with a range of physical and mental challenges train with us, and one of our students with Down syndrome earned his 5th-degree black belt, believed to be a first in the USA.

Question 9

How do belt tests work?

Accepted Answer

Students test for each new belt as they master new techniques, kata, and karate knowledge. Depending on rank, a test can include kata, kumite sparring, board breaking, and questions about the history of karate. Your instructor will let you know when you're ready.

Question 10

Do students have to compete in tournaments?

Accepted Answer

No. Our students don't compete against each other in class; they compete against themselves and are encouraged to do their personal best. Students who want to compete can, and many have won medals at AAU national championships and the Junior Olympics.

Question 11

Do you teach traditional weapons?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Intermediate and advanced students train in kobudo, traditional karate weapon systems such as the bo staff and sai.

Question 12

Do you offer private lessons?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Private lessons are available. Contact us for details and availability.

Question 13

Where is the dojo?

Accepted Answer

Our new, purpose-built dojo is at 6859 East Genesee Street in Fayetteville, NY 13066, in the same plaza as Visionworks. We're a short drive from Syracuse, Manlius, and DeWitt.

Question 14

What are the benefits of karate?

Accepted Answer

Karate builds self-defense skills, fitness, and mental and physical strength. Just as important, it teaches discipline, courtesy, and respect, values students carry into school, work, and home.

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