So you want to learn Karate but don’t have the time or money to attend live training, or maybe there are no schools or teachers anywhere near you, not to worry in this post we go through all the steps you can follow for how to learn Karate online.
We truly live in an era where anyone with a internet connection and personal computer or even mobile device can learn just about anything online – if you have the determination and of course, quality online learning resources.
While this article can’t really help you when it comes to being determined and consistent with your training – this post will provide the framework for how to learn Karate online.
And if you follow through there is no reason why you cant become proficient at Karate from your own home using quality resources for learning Karate online.
Why Learn Karate Online?
The main reasons why anyone would want to learn Karate online generally fall under the following categories, in my humble opinion at least anyway.
Accessibility
This would be the main reason I think a person would want to learn Karate online.
If you live in a rural area or somewhere where there are no schools anywhere near you, then your choices really are limited and learning Karate online is really your only choice.
Affordability
Another pretty strong reason to choose to learn Karate online would be the costs involved in learning at a school in person.
Online Karate programs and courses are often less expensive than in person dojo memberships.
You also save on the costs of transport to and from training and buying a uniform or gi for training.
And for some people affordability alone is reasons enough to purse online Karate learning rather than in person classes.
Convenience
Even if there is a gym or dojo near you and you can afford to train there, perhaps your work schedule or just life in general does not allow you time to attend classes in person.
With Karate online training you can learn and train anytime pretty much anywhere which is a major plus and very strong reason for choosing to learn online over learning live at a dojo.
Step #1 – Steel Your Will & Block Out Negativity
The first step outlined here for how to learn Karate online is all about your mindset.
Without a determined mindset you will not be able to accomplish your goals.
Steel Your Will
Learning online requires even more discipline than attending live classes where there are fellow students, senior belts and a Sensei present to keep you motivated and encourage you to push through the tough training sessions.
But training at home by yourself or with a couple of friends or family as training partners is difficult in that you don’t have the dojo environment.
But this should not stop you!
If you are determined then nothing can stop you from learning Karate online.
Block Out Negativity
All over the online forums, YouTube and social media comments and posts, people will tell you; “No! You can’t learn Karate online”.
They will say it’s impossible without a dojo, training partners and a Sensei to instruct and correct your technique.
You must BLOCK OUT ALL THIS NEGATIVITY – if you want to learn Karate online.
Step #2 – Choosing an Online Program
When it comes to choosing a program to learn from there are a few things to consider first:
Cost:
This can often be the main reason to choose a program.
Often cost alone is enough to drive your choice of program and you may end up selecting a program becasue it is cheaper.
Also be aware that there are free resources for learning Karate online also. The most popular ones can be found on YouTube such as the channel below:
Style of Karate:
If you already have a style of Karate you would like to lean in mind then this is also a very strong determining factor for selecting which program you would choose in the end.
If you don’t have a style of Karate that you favor then it is useful to know that there are many different styles of Karate.
But the most popular and well known styles are probably
- Kyokushin
- Shotokan
- Goju-Ryu
If you need, take your time to do some research on the different styles of Karate.
Each style has its own techniques, forms, and philosophies.
Take the time to research and determine which style resonates with your goals and preferences.
Some styles, like Shotokan, emphasize strong, linear movements, while others, like Goju-Ryu, focus on close-range combat and circular motions. Knowing which style aligns with your interests is a crucial first step.
But just be aware that not every style of Karate may have have online courses that you can learn from.
Credibility of Teaching
Online learning offers a wide range of instructors, and it’s essential to ensure you’re learning from a knowledgeable and experienced source.
Here are some factors to consider:
- Certifications: Check if the instructor holds relevant certifications from recognized Karate organizations or associations. Certifications indicate that the instructor has undergone formal training and is qualified to teach.
- Experience: Investigate the instructor’s martial arts background, including their years of experience and any notable achievements or ranks they’ve attained. Experienced instructors often provide more valuable insights and guidance.
- Teaching Style: Consider the instructor’s teaching style and whether it aligns with your learning preferences. Some instructors may focus on traditional training methods, while others may incorporate modern teaching techniques.
- Accessibility: Ensure that the instructor is accessible and responsive to your questions and concerns. The ability to communicate with your instructor is essential for effective online learning.
- Online Presence: Look for an instructor who has a strong online presence, which may include instructional videos, articles, or a well-maintained website. This can be an indicator of their commitment to online teaching.
Reading Reviews and Seeking Recommendations
One of the most valuable ways to gauge the quality of an online Karate school or instructor is by reading reviews and seeking recommendations from other martial artists.
Online forums, social media groups, and martial arts communities are excellent places to connect with individuals who have experience with specific online programs.
Ask for recommendations from fellow Karate enthusiasts or seek reviews on websites and platforms where these programs are offered.
Honest feedback from other learners can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness, professionalism, and overall experience provided by a particular online Karate school.
Step #3: Your Training Space
A safe and organised training area is fundamental to your progress in Karate.
For some the only space you may have is your living room and for others a home gym set up is something they already have.
Either way you need a dedicated training space.
Space to train and practice techniques safely is very important in your training. A 10×10 feet space is ideal if possible – but work with what you have to start with.
A punching bag or training dummy is one piece of equipment that can a long way to helping you get better at Karate training solo at home.
Your punching bag/dummy can become your most valuable training partner who never quits, and always shows up for training ready to go and help you improve both in power and technique.
If there is just one piece of equipment I would recommend anyone invest in it would have to be a punching bag/training dummy.
Step #4: Training Schedule
This is a must!
And without a planned out training schedule you will likely not succeed.
Each time you log on to your online program consider it attending the dojo and so its important to be consistent.
And consistency comes with good planning.
you only need 30 minutes to an hour 2-3 times per week to keep improving. And seeing improvement in your techniques and movement helps you stay motivated to keep learning also.
So planning out a training schedule is a vital piece of the puzzle for how to learn Karate online and should not be taken lightly!
Bonus Tips & Recommendations
If you follow the 4 Steps detailed above you are sure to see success in your learning Karate online journey.
But there are some bonus tips and recommendations that can help make your journey more effecient and enjoyable.
Let’s look at some of these below:
i) Video yourself
This is one way to monitor your improvement over time. And it is very motivating when you can see improvements in your technique, power and overall movement just a couple of months into your training.
But without an in person sensei watching you – video taping yourself is a very important tip that you really should consider implementing from Day 1.
ii) Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
If the online community you join has a forum to discuss questions among studdents dont be afraid to ask questions.
Even higher belts started out as white belts and likely had the same questions you did when starting out.
And many are more than willing to help newer students learn and overcome isses they have in their training.
you could even take the videos of yourself and send them in for critque and advice from teachers and higher level students.
iii) Learn some Japanese and Karate terms
This will help a lot in understanding better when it comes to online learning.
Often times instructors will count in Japanese so at least learn how to count up to 10 in Japanese and some of the most important Karate terms in Japanese which include:
- Gi: The traditional karate uniform.
- Obi: The belt worn with the gi.
- Rei: A bow.
- Sensei: Teacher.
- Senpai: Senior student.
- Kohai: Junior student.
- Kiai: A shout used to focus one’s energy.
- Kata: A choreographed sequence of movements that teaches the basics of karate technique and strategy.
- Kihon: Basic karate techniques.
- Kumite: Sparring.
- Dachi: Stance.
- Uke: Block.
- Tsuki: Punch.
- Geri: Kick
It is not necessary to learn all of these terms at once, but it is helpful to have a basic understanding of them as you begin your karate journey.
