For prospective new members: It is best for beginners to attend their first practice at the beginning of the quarter. Typically, this is when most new students begin studying with us, and those new to karate often find it encouraging to start their training amongst a similar group. Additionally, this arrangement will help us to maintain the flow of instruction throughout the rest of the quarter. Please contact us if you would like to attend your first class at any other time during the quarter. Practices are held on TUESDAY and THURSDAY evenings, in (or near) the Arrillaga Ctr. For Sports and Recreation. Please see the Practice Times page for more specific details. The first half of each class is typically reserved for basic, beginner-level training when newcomers are in attendance. Wear clothes that are comfortable to move and workout in (no uniform is required). Our practice is traditional and each class typically includes instruction in kihon (basic techniques), kata (set series of movements), and kumite (sparring). You are invited to attend several classes before becoming a member of our dojo. Club dues are $50 per quarter for student/Stanford members, and $50 per month for community members. BeWell@Stanford: New and continuing members should think about joining our BeWell@Stanford: Stanford Shotokan Karate group. Those thinking about attending class might also find more information about our club and its members by visiting this page. The BeWell system also holds information about Stanford Shotokan Karate's Weekly Classes. SKA: We are part of Shotokan Karate of America (SKA), a nonprofit nation-wide organization founded in 1955 by Mr. Tsutomu Ohshima. SKA membership entitles you to the opportunity to train directly with Mr. Ohshima at practices he leads several times a year at our home dojo in Santa Barbara, participate twice a year in intensive several-day special training sessions, and practice at any SKA dojo (there are over 100) or international affiliate dojo (Mr. Ohshima’s students teach karate in 18 countries). There are several SKA dojos in the Bay Area at which all SKA members are invited to visit: Berkeley Shotokan Karate San Francisco Shotokan Karate Saratoga Shotokan Karate Additionally, belt tests and advanced practices are regularly arranged with these nearby affiliate dojos. For continuing members: For those interested in practicing karate longer than a quarter, we recommend purchasing the traditional practice attire (Gi). To buy a Gi: If you want to stop by a store nearby, here are some: - Golden Glove 408-243-2533 (most recommended) 3447 El Camino Real (near Lawrence Expressway behind car wash) Santa Clara, CA - Hwa Rang Kwan Redwood 650-368-5659 133 Roosevelt Av, Redwood City - Academy of Shaolin System 650-368-1613 2325 El Camino Real, Redwood City - Aikido West 650-366-9106 3164 Bay Rd, Redwood City You can also buy online on the SKA website. Click on the Shotokan Karate of America Seal on the left of your screen and then proceed to the members only section. For the user name and password, please contact a member of the dojo. Follow this link for information about the various Gi sizes and brands. Online dues pay: Dues can now be paid online for our current members. If you are a new member, please discuss this with us first. http://egroups.stanford.edu/shotokan