The EXCELLENCE KARATE ACADEMY

teaching Kin Shin Kai karate

Information for prospective students

The Excellence Karate Academy teaches Kin Shin Kai karate at the Ivanhoe Aquatic and Fitness Centre in Ivanhoe, Melbourne Australia.

Kin Shin Kai is a martial arts style based largely on traditional Goju Ryu karate, one of the original and most popular Karate styles. Kin Shin Kai also draws from other martial arts and practical self defence. Classes focus on self-defense, fitness and holistic health.

The self-defense skills taught have many simple and effective elements, as well as more sophisticated and rewarding skills that are the heart of Goju Ryu karate and associated traditions. The training is also a very healthy and enjoyable exercise in its own right.

Unlike many other karate styles Kin Shin Kai makes practical sense of traditional methods which are often poorly understood and explained. It also revives some almost forgotten ones. Thus the effective simplicity of the ancient traditions shines through. Students aren't just learning art for arts sake.

Our initial aim is to instil a sense of discipline, respect and self confidence. To the foundation striking, kicking, blocking and moving skills of karate over time we add - escapes, restraints, sweeps, throws, seizes, locks, grappling, knowledge of vital points and advanced self defence routines.

Safe practice is stressed to students and normal dojo sparring is non-contact i.e. we aim to stop short rather than hit with our strikes.

Progress towards black belt is measured by the colour belt or kyu grade system which has 10 levels. As a guide, a good student will take 5-6 years to reach black belt level. There are then many levels of black belt.

Sensei George Ciechanowicz is the 'Shihan' or master instructor of karate classes at the centres. He co-ordinates programme delivery as well as supervising and/or teaching most classes.

Sensei George commenced his martial arts training in 1972 and is a ROKUDAN, or 6th Dan karate Black Belt holder. At this level instructors in this tradition are recognised as being 'Shihan' level (masters of their style) and earn the title of 'Renshi' (teacher of Sensei). He also has experience in and knowledge of many other martial arts.

His other major qualifications include a BA/Dip Ed (he is a qualified teacher), and Diplomas in Acupuncture and Massage. He also has training in sports medicine and sports coaching. Formerly also long-term instructor at the La Trobe University Karate club, George has been teaching martial arts programs in the City of Banyule for over 25 years.

We are a friendly, non intimidating group and welcome all beginners from age 5 and up. We understand that beginners may feel lost initially and so we work hard to ease you gently into routines and reassure you along the way. All classes are kept relatively small and personal.

Classes run in much the same periods as the local government school terms. Fees are payable directly to the Centre on a term by term basis. Note: Free Try Out lesson available. Fees are very reasonable. Junior age students are streamed into 'Little Ninja' (5-11 yo) and 'Young Samurai' (10 - 15 yo) groups to better aid their development and to make training more fun.

Please feel free to contact Excellence Karate Academy with any further queries including how to enrol, about our current SPECIAL OFFER for new enrolments, or for information about our class times particularly our wide range of children's beginner options •