Mark your space
Mark it once. Every card in karate starts from this space and adds what it needs.
The space
At home a clear floor of 2 m by 4 m for stances and kihon in a line (forward and backward); a mirror helps. A dojo floor and a qualified instructor for everything else.
Where it fits: indoor room, dojo.
Mark in this order
- A line of tape for the stance direction
- A start spot
Chalk or tape is enough. Tick each mark as you make it.
Practice kit first
Bare feet on a non-slip floor; nothing to strike.
Pads and protective gear only in a dojo.
Safety
No contact beyond the stage; follow the club's child protection policy; a qualified instructor; basics (kihon) first, then kata, then kumite.
Even, firm, non-slip floor and 3 m clear around; bare feet for kicking; jewellery off; nails, hair and clothing that do not get in the way; partners matched for size, age, skill and maturity; in sparring, techniques stop more than 10 cm short of the target; training tools of soft foam; strikes at pads, pool noodles or the air.
awiseathlete.com/sports/karate/setup