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American Freestyle Karate

American Freestyle Karate (AFK) combines key elements from various martial arts, including Isshin Ryu, Kempo, and Master Klawon’s own free-form katas, to create a well-rounded program. From beginner to black belt, students are taught by qualified adult black belt instructors and gain proficiency in traditional weapons like Arnis sticks, long Bo, and Sai, along with modern street self-defense techniques.

Age Groups

Student Information

FOCUS
DISCIPLINE
CONFIDENCE
RESPECT
COURAGE

Children's Karate

Karate offers children a comprehensive foundation of physical fitness, mental resilience, and valuable life skills such as:
  • Confidence and Social Skills: Karate helps shy children overcome timidity and gives extroverted children a healthy outlet for competition, boosting confidence and a sense of individuality.
  • Physical Fitness and Coordination: Karate’s full-body workout improves coordination, strength, and aerobic fitness. It also teaches safe falling techniques, reducing injury risk in everyday activities.
  • Discipline and Focus: Karate emphasizes self-control over aggression. Children sharpen concentration through memorized routines and build self-esteem by setting and achieving personal goals.
  • Personal Safety Awareness: Safety programs like “Stranger Danger” and “911” teach children how to recognize and react to dangerous situations. These skills provide essential awareness for navigating real-world challenges, promoting children’s safety and ability to protect themselves.

Little Ninjas (Ages 4 - 6)

The Little Ninjas Program is a detailed curriculum that focuses on improving pre-school age children’s basic motor and listening skills. These skills will help them enter society with a more confident and enthusiastic outlook. They will become better students at school, better listeners at home, and more ambitious towards the future. We believe the time between the ages of 3 and 6 are the most important years of a child’s development. Our program will encourage positive development in a fun and motivating way.

Youth Karate (Ages 7 - 13)

Parenting pre-teens can be challenging, but karate offers valuable preparation for these years. We teach students the importance of teamwork, strong role models, and self-discipline. Our goal-oriented program reinforces the value of hard work—students earn their achievements, fostering resilience and a healthy mindset about success and failure. Unlike many sports that reward everyone equally, we emphasize the importance of effort, preparing kids for the real world. Together, we can help them become skilled martial artists and responsible citizens.

Skills we develop

This skill will help your child’s aim, attention, listening and reaction skills. They will excel faster in any physical activities. Your child will also become a better listener and more focused student in school.
Teamwork is necessary for any young child to develop. The more confidence your child has when working with others, the more he or she can accomplish. Your child will develop character that will help him or her make new friends and become a better leader in life.
Having control means making good decisions. Whether your child is handling a pet or handling a problem, he or she will learn to make the right decisions. Control builds confidence.
This skill is crucial to develop at an early age. Your child is beginning to participate in many physical activities that are challenging like riding a two-wheel bicycle. Your child will develop good balance and a better posture.
Developing a good memory is exercise for your child’s brain. The sooner your child exercises, the smarter he or she will become. Our drills challenge your child to think and make smart decisions.

Our instructors use drills to help create the vision that discipline is fun and rewarding. Your child will take pride in doing the right thing and will also follow directions better.

It is important for children to understand the importance of being healthy and physically fit. Exercise promotes healthier sleep, cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and flexibility, supporting both physical and mental well-being
They will become better physical participants in sports and activities. The better co-ordination your child has, the fewer injuries your child will sustain.
HUMILITY
LOYALTY
DEDICATION
COMMITMENT
HONOR

Adult Karate

Our Adult Karate program is designed to provide practical self-defense techniques while improving overall fitness and flexibility. Through disciplined training, you’ll master traditional forms, powerful strikes, and defensive maneuvers that can be applied in real-world situations. This class goes beyond physical conditioning, emphasizing mental clarity, focus, and stress relief—essential for today’s demanding lifestyles.

Whether you’re a seasoned martial artist or a complete beginner, the program is designed to challenge and motivate you. Training alongside like-minded adults, you’ll foster camaraderie while progressing on your martial arts journey. Discover the benefits of Karate for your body and mind, and achieve personal milestones in an environment dedicated to growth and respect.

Class Information

Clothing

A karate uniform (GI) is required for class unless you are trying out our dojo. Your GI and the necessary patches will be provided and must meet UWMA standards with no unauthorized modifications. A black shirt is also required under the uniform, which you can bring or purchase from the dojo. Students must train barefoot.

Equipment

As students advance, they will need to purchase specific training equipment, such as sparring gear and weapons. Instructors will inform students when and what to buy. The belt progression section will give you a good idea of when weapons training begins. Equipment may be purchased elsewhere if it meets UWMA standards, but UWMA offers the most affordable pricing. Weapons bought outside must be inspected for safety, and sparring gear must be free of other school logos and in good condition.

Promotions

There are no testing fees—and there never will be. There is a promotion fee which covers basic costs, including the new belt, certificate, registration, and potentially any weapons required for your new rank. We strive to keep costs minimal so you can stay focused on your training.

Barefoot Practice

All students must train barefoot. Wearing socks or shoes is not permitted. This respects martial arts traditions and ensures optimal traction while allowing instructors to better assess foot positioning for effective guidance.

Viewing Area

Parents, friends, siblings, visitors, and curious parties are welcome to observe. There are ample tables and chairs. As this area is adjacent to the mats we just ask that you be respectful and keep noise to a minimum.

Hydration

We have a water fountain in the dojo and sports drinks available for purchase. Students are encouraged to bring their own water bottles.

Demo Team

The Demo Team is for exceptional students who demonstrate leadership and embody the spirit of martial arts. The team promotes the benefits of Karate by providing free demonstrations for local schools, businesses, and social events.
Demo Team Eligibility:
  • Passing the Demo Team tryouts, held every six months; no exceptions for missed tryouts.
  • Current membership in the school.
  • Good attendance.
  • Minimum rank of green belt.
  • Desire to participate, independent of peer/parental pressure.
Demo Team Responsibilities:
  • Prioritize the Demo Team. Full commitment is required as it is equivalent to another sport in terms of practice and games.
  • Attend all Demo Team classes. Notify absences in advance and missing more than 3 practices may lead to removal.
  • Travel schedules for events will be announced at least 3 weeks ahead of time. Missing 2 consecutive demonstrations may result in suspension.
  • Safety is paramount. Stunts are challenging and we accommodate students as much as possible. Those posing safety risks may be temporarily removed.
Members will receive specialized training in advanced weapons and hand katas not covered in regular classes. An interview with Master Klawon will determine each student’s role on the team. There will be a starting lineup for experienced students and a rookie team for beginners to refine their techniques. Special lessons will be conducted (see Schedule for details) offering additional training for committed students. Basic weapons demonstrated include Sword, Nunchaku, Kama, Tonfa, and Sai, with additional weapons introduced after mastering the basic katas.

Requirements for White Belt

Walk in the door.
It's the easiest belt to earn and the hardest to put on.

Upper Body
  1. Straight Punch
  2. Uppercut
  3. Reverse Punch
  4. Reverse Uppercut
  5. Leg Block, Reverse Punch
  6. Close Fist Down Block, Reverse Punch
  7. Close Fist Side Block, Reverse Punch
  8. Open Hand Side Block, Nukite (Spear Hand)
  9. Close Fist Head Block, Reverse Punch
  10. Open Hand Head Block, Close Fist Uppercut
  11. Elbow Face Block, Close Fist Nose Strike, Reverse Punch
  12. Open Hand Cross, Block Double Shuto’s (Knife Hand)
Lower Body
  1. Front Snap Kick
  2. 45 Degree Side Blade Kick
  3. Cross Kick
  4. 90 Degree Side Blade Kick
  5. Crescent Kick
  6. Round House Kick
  7. Front Heel Push Kick
  8. Back Heel Kick
  9. Knee Smash
  10. Step to the Side Kick
  11. Cat Stance Kick
  12. Hook Kick
Kata (1)
  • Hachi Tenkan

Kata (2)
  • Tiji
12 Angles of Attack with Eskrima Stick
  1. Head
  2. Opposite Side of Head
  3. Elbow
  4. Opposite Side of Elbow
  5. Solar Plexus
  6. Knee
  7. Opposite Side of Knee
  8. Chest
  9. Opposite Side of Chest
  10. Eye
  11. Opposite Eye
  12. Top of the Head
Breakfalls & Rolls

Kata (1)
  • Kihon Teki Bo

Kata (2)
  • Seisan
Board Testing is required at this point. Your instructor will also inform you of the required time limit for sparring and fitness during this test.
Basic Self Defense
  • Front Lapel Grab
  • Double Lapel Grab
  • Rear Shoulder Grab
  • Head Lock
  • Rear Bear Hug
  • Front Bear Hug
  • Wrist Grab Same Side
  • Wrist Grab Opposite Side
  • Double Wrist Grab
  • Rear Hair/Lapel Pull
Stick Takeaways
  • Based off 12 angles of attack.

Kata (1)
  • Tokumine-No-Kun

Kata (2)
  • Seiunchin
Board Testing is required at this point. Your instructor will also inform you of the required time limit for sparring and fitness during this test.
Hand Weapons
  • Tiger Claw
  • Straight Finger/Thumbs
  • Finger Flick
  • Web Hand
  • Karate Palms
  • Palm Heel
  • Shuto Strike
  • Nukite Strike
  • Ridge Hand
  • Knuckle Strike
  • Crane Beak/Ox Jaw
  • Hammer Fist
  • Back Fist
  • Kung-Fu Fist
  • Isshin-Ryu Fist
Drills
  • Sumo
  • Kimono Grab
  • Japanese Strangle Hold
  • Kempo Dancer
  • Crashing Elbows
  • Avoidance
  • Ten Count Stance
  • Walking/Fighting Dragon
  • Blocking Drill
  • Punch Kick Drill
Kata (1)
  • Kihon Teki Sai
Kata (2)
  • Chinto
Board Testing is required at this point. Your instructor will also inform you of the required time limit for sparring and fitness during this test.
Sinawali Stick Drills
  • High – Low
  • Single
  • Double
  • Italiano
  • Six Count
Basic Throws
  • Sweep 1
  • Sweep 2
  • Double Sweep
  • Hip
  • Shoulder
Kata (1)
  • Bo Bo Kumite

Kata (2)
  • Kusanku-No-Sai
Board Testing is required at this point. Your instructor will also inform you of the required time limit for sparring and fitness during this test.
Advanced Self Defense

Inside
  • Uchi – Ichi
  • Uchi – Ni
  • Uchi – San
Outside
  • Soto – Ichi
  • Soto – Ni
  • Soto – San
Weapons
  • Interceptor
  • Dancer
  • Hammer
  • Scissors
  • Ax
  • Re-Fire
  • Side Attack
  • Back Attack
Kata (1)
  • Kehon Teki Tonfa

Kata (2)
  • Saikin“Kehon Teki Tonfa”

Kata (3)
  • Bo Sai Kumite

Kata (4)
  • Sunsu
Board Testing is required at this point. Your instructor will also inform you of the required time limit for sparring and fitness during this test.
Under Age 16
Jr. Black Belts must meet all standard black belt requirements but will not receive the title of Sensei. Their certificate will list “Juunia Shodan” (Junior 1st Degree) until they turn 16 and show the necessary maturity in martial arts. Simply reaching age 16 is not sufficient; students must also demonstrate growth. Once these criteria are met, they will test for their adult black belt, with any prior time counted toward their next level. For example, a student earning a Jr. Black Belt at 15 who qualifies at 16 will have one year credited toward a 2nd-degree promotion. UWMA values earned achievements and does not award black belts lightly, but we also ensure students progress fairly.

Advanced Freestyle Self Defense
Student must possess a proficiency against any weapon they have trained with, and be able to defend against any random attack from all angles. A deeper explanation will be provided by the testing instructor.
Advanced Throws
  • Shoulder
  • Ankle
  • Over the Back
  • Shuto
  • Single Wrist

Advanced Stick
  • Head 1 “based on #1 angle”
  • Head 2 “based on #2 angle”
  • Head 3 “based on #12 angle”

Advanced Bat
  • Shoulder
  • Side
  • Re-direct
Kata (1)
  • Sakutecki

Kata (2)
  • Urashi Bo

Kata (3)
  • Senjou
Board Testing is required at this point. Your instructor will also inform you of the required time limit for sparring and fitness during this test.
Students must meet and exceed all previous requirements. Aspiring Black Belts must demonstrate teaching and organizational skills by leading one class, a mandatory requirement with no exceptions. Two senior Black Belts must review and certify the student’s readiness for testing. While there is no set waiting period, students will be observed for technique, attitude, and spirit. Candidates younger than 16 will be tested as Jr. Black Belts.

Advanced Freestyle Self Defense
Student must possess a proficiency against any weapon they have trained with, and be able to defend against any random attack from all angles. A deeper explanation will be provided by the testing instructor.
Advanced Throws
  • Shoulder
  • Ankle
  • Over the Back
  • Shuto
  • Single Wrist

Advanced Stick
  • Head 1 “based on #1 angle”
  • Head 2 “based on #2 angle”
  • Head 3 “based on #12 angle”

Advanced Bat
  • Shoulder
  • Side
  • Re-direct
Kata (1)
  • Sakutecki

Kata (2)
  • Urashi Bo

Kata (3)
  • Senjou
Board Testing is required at this point. Your instructor will also inform you of the required time limit for sparring and fitness during this test.
Training: A minimum of 2 years is required before testing for 2nd Dan. Candidates must demonstrate improvement in both technical skills and mental growth from Shodan to Nidan. At least 2 higher-ranking Black Belts must attest to their progress and a positive attitude both inside and outside the dojo is required.

Teaching: Students must have at least 2 years as a Shodan and exhibit a deeper understanding of bunkai for teaching purposes. Good standing and respect among fellow students as an instructor are essential. Becoming a 2nd degree Black Belt involves self-improvement and contributing to the community. Candidates should reflect on how they have improved themselves and helped others.

Advanced Freestyle Self Defense
Student must poses a proficiency against any attack, armed and unarmed. Student must be able to demonstrate a deeper knowledge of self defense, when and when not to use it. Deeper explanation of this will be explained by the testing instructor.
Kata (1)
  • Chatanyara No Sai
Kata (2)
  • Shi Shi No Kun No Dai Bo
Board Testing is required at this point. Your instructor will also inform you of the required time limit for sparring and fitness during this test.

Renshi belts are students who will continue to train and teach the martial arts. Should a student not poses this skill, they will be held back until a decision is made on how to proceed. This belt is held at the highest regard, only 2nd to a master belt, so care and thought must go into each student who will wear this belt.

Training: 3rd Degree or Sondan, Minimum 2 to 3 years, this does not mean you will be tested in 2 or 3 years it means it’s the bare minimum required. All candidates for 3rd Dan must show an improvement from Nidan to Sondan, both technically and mentally.

Teaching: Minimum 2 years as a Nidan. Student must also demonstrate a deeper understanding of bunkai as a teaching application. Candidate must have a good standing with fellow students and be well respected for his/her contributions as an instructor.

Kata (1): Hamahiga No Tonfa

Board Testing is required at this point and the test may also outside of the Dojo for the select few who have earned the Dojo’s ultimate trust and respect. Those who do not train outside the Dojo will still be required to demonstrate their martial arts proficiency, inside the school.
Renshi belts are students who will continue to train and teach the martial arts. Should a student not poses this skill, they will be held back until a decision is made on how to proceed. This belt is held at the highest regard, only 2nd to a master belt, so care and thought must go into each student who will wear this belt.

Training: 4th Degree or Yondan, Minimum 3 to 4 years, this does not mean you will be tested in 3 or 4 years, it means it’s the bare minimum required. All candidates for 4th Dan must show an improvement from Sandan to Yonndan, both technically and mentally.

Teaching: Minimum 3 years as a Sandan. Student must also demonstrate a deeper understanding of bunkai as a teaching application. Candidate must have a good standing with fellow students and be well respected for his/her contributions as an instructor.

Requirement: Student must demonstrate how martial arts has changed their life and how and what they plan on doing with their knowledge. Student must also demonstrate how they have bettered the world of martial arts through their teaching, this will be proven by letters of recommendation for promotion from at least 10 students. Further details will be given directly to the student.
Board Testing is required at this point and the test may also outside of the Dojo for the select few who have earned the Dojo’s ultimate trust and respect. Those who do not train outside the Dojo will still be required to demonstrate their martial arts proficiency, inside the school.
Renshi belts are students who will continue to train and teach the martial arts. Should a student not poses this skill, they will be held back until a decision is made on how to proceed. This belt is held at the highest regard, only 2nd to a master belt, so care and thought must go into each student who will wear this belt.

Training: 5th Degree or Godan, Minimum 4 to 5 years, this does not mean you will be tested in 4 or 5 years, it means it’s the bare minimum required. All candidates for 5th Dan must show an improvement from Yondan to Godan, both technically and mentally.

Teaching: Minimum 3 years as a Yondan. Student must also demonstrate a deeper understanding of bunkai as a teaching application. Candidate must have a good standing with fellow students and be well respected for his/her contributions as an instructor.

Requirement: Student must demonstrate how martial arts has changed their life and how and what they plan on doing with their knowledge. Student must also demonstrate how they have bettered the world of martial arts through their teaching, this will be proven by letters of recommendation for promotion from at least 10 students. Further details will be given directly to the student.
Board Testing is required at this point and the test may also outside of the Dojo for the select few who have earned the Dojo’s ultimate trust and respect. Those who do not train outside the Dojo will still be required to demonstrate their martial arts proficiency, inside the school.

Master Black Belt Requirements

Will be discussed with Renshi Students interested in pursuing this path.

Testing

Testing can be nerve-racking, but it’s designed to make you a better martial artist, not just a better tester. Treat each class as a test, and push yourself. Ultimately, belts are earned through dedication.

Rank Testing

All students begin as white belts, regardless of experience. To advance, you will train on required material and test with an adult Black Belt, typically after class. Testing with the same instructor is preferred but not required. Bring your folder for your Sensei to log notes that guide improvement. Multiple test are most often necessary and are designed to improve the student, not hold them back. Once your material is solid, you will be signed off and move on to advanced material. Kata can only be tested once per week, while other material can be tested in any class. Once all material is signed off, your name goes up for board testing.

Board Testing

Board testing starts at orange belt. After rank testing all of your current material, your name is added to the board. The board test covers all material from white belt to your current rank, including sparring and fitness. You’ll have at least one week to prepare and will be notified when the Senseis feel you are ready to test. During your board test, if the required material is not being met, the test will end. You will have the opportunity to repeat a board test, but this is very difficult and not recommended. Consistently practice all material and be well-prepared for the challenge!
Tests are private and not open to the public. Minors may have one parent or guardian present, though it may distract the student from the intensity of the exam. Safety is our priority; Students with medical needs must inform us in advance.
“We won’t give you a Black Belt, you’ll earn it.”

Okinawan Weapons

While karate means “empty hands,” weapons were developed alongside open-hand techniques, viewed as extensions of those skills. Okinawan weapons originated from everyday tools, adapted due to weapon bans by local rulers and Japanese samurai.

Why Study Okinawan Weapons?

Though firearms limit their modern self-defense use, training with these weapons offers significant benefits:

  • Preserves karate’s historical roots
  • Enhances flexibility, strength, and movement fluidity
  • Improves coordination and body awareness
  • Training transfers to modern tools like bats or hoses for self-defense

Sai

The Sai is a metal weapon resembling a small trident, typically 18 to 21.5 inches long, with a wrapped handle and a butt end for striking. To size it properly, the Sai’s main shaft should extend about an inch past the elbow to fully protect the forearm. One-third up from the handle, two prongs protrude upward as hand guards. The blade tapers slightly, with a round or octagonal shape. Octagonal blades deal more impact damage, while round blades are more durable. Sai are usually used in pairs, though some practitioners carry a third for throwing or as a backup.

History: The origin of the Sai is uncertain, but two main theories exist. One suggests it evolved from a digging tool used to create furrows for planting, where the pointed tip was used to create holes for seeds. Another theory claims the Sai was imported from China or Indonesia, as Okinawa had limited iron resources for manufacturing metal weapons.

Usage: Although sometimes called “short swords,” Sai are primarily defensive weapons. The Sai can be held with the blade retracted along the forearm for blocking, with the butt end used like a punching tool. The blade can also be flipped out for whipping strikes, pokes, and blocks. The hand guards are ideal for catching and trapping weapons like a Bo or sword, allowing the user to twist the attacker’s weapon from their grasp or potentially break it. Due to these flipping techniques, Sai training emphasizes wrist strength and flexibility, making it a popular supplement to traditional karate training.

Nunchaku

The Nunchaku, famously used by Bruce Lee, is a member of the flail family. It consists of two wooden sticks, each about 12 inches long, connected by a rope or chain. Traditionally, Okinawan versions used rope rather than chain. Properly sized Nunchaku should match the distance from the middle of the hand to the elbow, allowing for a secure grip and use as forearm protection. The sticks can be round or octagonal, and different woods give them varying weights. The Nunchaku has three main grip areas: the upper (nearest the rope or chain), middle, and lower.

History: The origins of the Nunchaku are uncertain. One theory suggests it was originally a tool for harvesting rice, used in sweeping arcs to gather crops. Another theory proposes that it evolved from the Chinese three-sectional staff, modified by Okinawans for easier concealment and simpler use.

Usage: The Nunchaku’s swinging techniques can reach speeds over 85 mph, allowing for versatile strikes, including up, down, horizontal, and figure-eight motions. Swinging techniques can deflect strikes, such as low kicks, or be used for blocking by holding the shafts together along the forearm. Additionally, Nunchaku can be wielded in a punching or clubbing motion, replicating many karate hand strikes, and enhancing hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness.

Bo Staff

The Bo staff is a simple, long stick traditionally measuring six feet in length, though variations exist depending on the practitioner. Typically, it has a 1 ¼-inch diameter at the center, tapering to ¾ inch at the ends to focus striking force. Most Bos are made of hard wood, though bamboo or rattan can be used for flexibility and lightness.

History: The Bo is one of humanity’s oldest weapons, evolving from tools like spears. It was commonly used to carry buckets of grain or water balanced on each end. In times of danger, the buckets could be quickly removed, transforming the Bo into a defensive weapon. Similarly, it could be a walking stick that doubled as a weapon when needed.

Usage: The Bo is designed for long-range combat, best used from a distance and in open spaces. Both hands control its movements, allowing for rapid strikes by switching the lead end. Twirling the Bo creates confusion for attackers, making strikes unpredictable. Its length also makes it highly effective for blocking, as it can cover a large defensive area, protecting the head, sides, and lower body.

Tonfa

Wooden sticks with a perpendicular handle, typically used in pairs. Tonfa are swung in snapping motions, useful for striking or augmenting blocks by covering the forearms.

History: The Tonfa is thought to have originated as a tool handle for a millstone grinder. It was easily removed when needed for self-defense. Today, a modern version called the PR-24 is used by police departments, made of hardened plastic instead of wood. Unlike martial artists who traditionally use two Tonfas, police officers typically use only one, replacing the conventional nightstick.

Usage: The Tonfa offers both offensive and defensive techniques. Offensively, it can be swung in an arcing motion by twisting the handle, delivering powerful strikes. This movement requires a quick wrist snap, similar to a karate punch. Both ends of the Tonfa can be used for punching, chopping, or clubbing. Defensively, the long end protects the forearm in an augmented block. Proper use demands strong wrist control and precise handling.

Kama

Kamas resemble small sickles, with wooden handles and metal blades. The inside of the blade is sharp, while the outside is blunt. Kamas are typically used in pairs, and some practitioners attach a cord to the handle for twirling techniques. To reduce risk during training, beginner Kamas are often made entirely of wood, including the blade.

Usage: Kamas are close-range weapons known for their sweeping motions, such as hooking, hacking, and chopping. These techniques are enhanced by the sharp blades, which allow for both offensive strikes and defensive blocks. A practitioner might block with the handle and then twist the Kama to slash with the blade, or use one Kama to block while attacking with the other. The simultaneous movement of both Kamas can create a spinning, propeller-like effect, adding to the weapon’s unpredictability and deadliness.

Glossary

Japanese Words

Anza, (on-za) Relaxed kneelin position
Dachi, (da-chi) Stance
DaMatte, (da-ma-tay) Quit
Dojo, (doe-joe) school/training hall
Gi, (gey) Karate uniform
Hajime, (ha-ja-may) Begin
Karate, (ka-rah-tay) Empty hands
Karateka, (ka-rah-tay-ka) Karate student
Kata, (ka-ta) formal exercise
Kiai, (key-eye) Shout
Kiite, (ket-tay) Listen
Kiotsuke, (key-oats-kay) Attention
Kwatae, (kwa-tay) Switch
Matta, (ma-tay) Wait
Nukite, (new-key-tea) Spear hand
Nuranday, (nur-ran-day) Line up
Osu, (ous) I understand/yes
Otagae Ni Rei, (o-ta-guy-knee-ray) Bow to each other
Rei, (ray) Bow
Saza, (say-za) Formal kneeling position
Sempai, (sim-pie) Senior student
Sempai Ni Rei, (sim-pie-knee-ray) Bow to sempai
Sensei, (sin-say) Black belt
Sensei Ni Rei, (sin-say-knee-ray) Bow to sensei
Shiai, (she-eye) Contest
Shuto, (shoe-toe) Knife hand
Soto Moma Day, (so-toe-mama-day) Freeze
Swatae, (swa-tay) Sit
Tatae, (ta-tay) Stand
Ukime, (you-key-me) Breakfalls
Yame, (ya-may) Stop
Yasumi Jikann, (ya-sue-may-ja-kahn) Take a break
Yasumi, (ya-sue-may) Relax
Yoi, (yoy) Get ready
Yose, (yo-se) Enough

Counting

Ichi, 1
Ni, 2
San, 3
Shi, 4
Go, 5
Roku, 6
Shichi, 7
Hachi, 8
Ku, 9
Ju, 10
Ju Ichi, 11
Ju NI, 12
Ju San, 13
Ju Shi, 14
Ju Go, 15
Ju Raku, 16
Ju Shichi, 17
Ju hachi, 18
Ju Ku, 19
Ni ju, 20

Chinese Words

Ett Coon, (it-kuhn) 1 punch
Fern Te Coon, (fern-tay-kuhn) 2 punches
Flip Te Coon, (flip-tay-kuhn) 3 punches
Gor Ma, (gore-ma) Stepping horse
Hoy Ma, (hoy-ma) Open the horse
Kung fu, (kung-fu) Hard work
Leip Gen, (leep-gin) Attention
Ma, (ma) Horse
Song, (song) Shout

Know your dojo before you commit!

Whether you’re new to martial arts or returning after time away, starting can feel a bit intimidating. At United World Martial Arts, we offer a FREE trial program designed to help you feel comfortable. Try one, two, or even three classes to see if we’re the right fit. Unlike many schools that surprise you with hidden fees after a trial, we’re upfront about costs and schedules from the start. Feel free to just drop by (10-15 minutes before class – see the schedule) or contact us for information. We’re proud of our program and encourage you to experience our approach firsthand before deciding.
Schedule a trial!
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