The Western Karate Academy

At the Western Karate Academy, we are interested in what our students and parents think of our school. We sent out a survey and asked several direct questions that would help us see through the eyes of our participants.  All responses were anonymous in order to get the most sincere answers. We feel that most karate schools would likely get similar results, so in an effort to show others the effects of karate training and to show our support of local schools, we would like to share some of the comments with you.

From The Students

Why did you start training?
"To learn more about the martial arts." "Make friends." "To protect myself." "I thought it would be fun." "For physical and mental strength."

As you can see, students do not all come for the same reasons.  Contrary to popular thought,  the majority of students did not mention self defense in their answer.  Most adult students are looking for a way of getting or keeping fit that does not involve being on a team, but still in a group setting where they can make social contacts as well.  

Is Earning a Black Belt One of Your Goals?
Almost 80% of our students scored this as a high priority.  Just under 20% said "Maybe."  Only 1% said it was not their intent to earn this belt.  Adults were the least likely to list this as a definite goal, although many were hopeful that this would be the end result of their training.

Other Thoughts.
"I am enjoying the class." "I like karate very much" "It's really fun." "I love the classes."  At the risk of appearing self-serving, this is a confirmation of the enthusiasm that is shared for karate all over the world.  In our society, rules are given less importance, and structure seems like a thing of the past.  however, many students thrive under the strict guidance of a caring sensei (teacher).

From the Parents

If you are a parent who is considering enrolling your child in karate, you may find the following comments a useful tool.  If you currently have a child training in karate, you may see your own ideas reflected in the answers given.

Why Did You Enroll Your Child?
"I wanted to instill a form of discipline not offered through schools or at home."  "...Physical exercise, discipline and structure." "For exercise, balance and to learn confidence." "So they could learn self defense and discipline." "To increase strength, focus and attention."

Many parents did name self-defense as an issue they wanted to address, however, the majority wanted an activity that would instill self-discipline and bolster self-esteem.  Karate, when taught as an art, not a sport, will always deliver in these areas.

What Changes Have You Noticed?
"Better balance, better focus at tasks." "Self confidence improved." "...More pleasant attitude after classes...""Balance, stamina, co ordination.""Getting more active."  "More physical strength," "Pride and feeling of belonging." "...More disciplined."

The majority of parents noticed an increase in self-control and also physical  activity.  Karate appears to be delivering what most parents came looking for.   The parents who encourage their child to persevere through the challenges that karate presents, always see the greatest results, and rewards.

Comments From the Sensei
The Western Karate Academy is interested in training students in the art of karate, not in competition either against other students or other schools.  Our main focus is in character development through  discipline and structure.  Students are expected to view their fellow students as part of their karate community, not their adversaries.  We want to exceed the expectations of our students and parents, and surveys of this kind help us accomplish the task.

Our instructors meet regularly to discuss issues and work on new teaching ideas that will help us reach a multitude of personalities and learning challenges.  Karate has not changed much during the past one hundred years, but our society has. Karate was not designed to be a sport, but an art, and we want to preserve the original goal of building a firm moral and ethical foundation for our students to build their lives upon.

Karate changes the lives of its practitioners by offering a strict moral code that is unchanging,  the sense (chief instructor) should uphold the highest standards in the dojo.  If you are looking for a good school, you are in fact looking for a good sensei.  If you are impressed with the teaching style of the sensei and the instructors. you are moving in the right direction.  Don't be overwhelmed by flash and fan fare.  Always focus on the character that will be instilled within the training, as this will outlast and be more useful than any physical achievements that may be obtained.