Anyone can learn martial arts at the Glasgow Karate Association (Whiteinch Centre). There are no age limits within the association, with students ranging from 5 to 75 years old. Additionally, there is no requirement to be fit to train with them as they will help you get fit through their training. They even have coaching certificates that allow them to teach individuals with disabilities, although it may be necessary to check with a GP before participating.
Joining the Glasgow Karate Association is simple. Interested individuals can come along to any of their classes and join in. All that is required is to bring jogging trousers, a t-shirt, training shoes, and some water. If someone decides to continue training with them, karate suits and training equipment can be purchased at discounted prices through the association.
The Glasgow Karate Association prides itself on keeping class sizes small and maintaining a high instructor to student ratio. This allows their experienced instructors to listen and guide each student personally, ensuring that no one gets lost in the crowd.
The main purpose of the association is to teach and lead every student, challenging them to constantly push themselves to a higher level by setting and achieving goals. They strive to teach and uphold Shotokai Karate-do in accordance with its recognised historical background, as well as using new and updated teaching methods. Before granting membership, the association requires good character, prioritising humility and respect over ego and arrogance.
The association believes that every student has the capability to achieve their goals through regular training at the Dojo. They do not employ programme directors or require elite programmes to learn at a faster rate. Each individual sets their own learning pace and advances based on their effort and practise. Rank is earned, not given, and there is no timeline for automatic promotion.
The Glasgow Karate Association is a close-knit community where students are treated as family members, not just customers. The instructors strive to get to know their students and help them be the very best in every endeavour. They focus on training not just for protection and self-defence but also for longevity and overall health. They are not a tournament school but a traditional Shotokai Karate-do dojo that trains both in the classical and modern ways.
Patience and a positive attitude are emphasised, and they focus on the development of the whole person, including body, mind, and spirit.