About Redding Shotokan Karate

Redding Shotokan is a karate club affiliated with the non-profit Shotokan Karate of America (SKA) and over 140 clubs across the United States and Canada. We practice at Sun Oaks Tennis and Fitness, located on the east side of Redding, California off Airport Road and Highway 44.

What is Karate?

Karate is a form of weaponless self-defense. It consists of dynamic offensive and defensive techniques using all parts of the body to their maximum advantage.

Where did it come from?

Shotokan Karate is a traditional form of karate from Okinawa, developed and brought to Japan by Master Gichin Funakoshi (1868-1957). The founder and chief instructor of the SKA is Tsutomu Ohshima, Shihan, one of Master Funakoshi's last direct pupils. Mr. Ohshima has been teaching karate in America since 1956.

Who are Redding Shotokan's instructors?

The instructors are Hiroko Mori, Brad Marsh, Chuck Spotts and David Schauer. The instructors, except for Brad, were trained by Mr. Ken Osborne, a pupil of Mr. Ohshima, and holder of the rank 5th dan (Godan, the highest rank attainable in the SKA).

What do we do?

Our training consists primarily of three types of activities:

• Basic techniques (kihon)
• Preset forms (kata)
• Sparring (kumite)

We believe strongly in basic training; the ability to perform simple techniques effectively will be of paramount importance in an unexpected situation.

What can I get out of it?

Karate practice develops self-discipline and self-esteem. It tones the body and develops coordination, quickens the reflexes and improves stamina. Training develops the ability to coordinate mind and body while learning a method of self defense.

Grading

The instructors are authorized to conduct grading for the ranks of eighth through first kyu (see sidebar); the gradings are held twice per year. You must be a member of SKA to receive an official rank. If you are interested in grading for rank in SKA, please consult with your instructors.

Training Schedule

View our training schedule.

History

Read a brief synopsis of the dojo's history.

Karate Terms Glossary

Refer to the karate terms glossary, created by RSK instructor Hiroko Mori, on the SKA web site. Note: You must be a member of Shotokan Karate of America to access this resource.