Washington Shotokan Karate
Washington Shotokan Association is a non-profit organization that has served the Eastside community for over 45 years teaching thousands of students the traditions of Shotokan Karate, while providing a safe and respectful environment for learning. When you visit the main dojo in Bellevue, Washington, you begin to understand why WSA is such a special place loved by children and adults alike.
3,600 square foot floating oak training floor with wall to ceiling mirrors and stretch bars
Makiwara board (traditional karate punching board)
Stretching room
Dressing rooms with showers for men and women
Separate classes for youth and adults, ranging from beginner, intermediate, and advanced
A free trial class for anyone interested in Shotokan with no obligation to join
Shotokan Karate
Shotokan is a widely practiced, traditional style of karate developed by Gichin Funakoshi, who brought the martial art to Japan in 1922. There are three major focuses:
(1) Kihon (Basic Techniques) are basic punches, kicks, blocks, and
stances used as the core foundation for practice.
(2) Kata (Patterns of Moves) are sequences of blocks, punches, and other kihon that simulates a fight with multiple attackers.
(3) Kumite (Sparring) is the application of blocks, strikes, kicks with a partner. Our dojo practices non-contact sparring, emphasizing control and technical precision.
Belt system
Rank
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
1-Dan
2-Dan
3-Dan
4-Dan
5-Dan
6-Dan
7-Dan
8-Dan
9-Dan
10-Dan
Belt Color
Yellow
Orange
Blue
Green
Green
Purple
Purple
Brown
Brown
Brown
1st Degree Black Belt
2nd Degree Black Belt
3rd Degree Black Belt
4th Degree Black Belt
5th Degree Black Belt
6th Degree Black Belt
7th Degree Black Belt
8th Degree Black Belt
9th Degree Black Belt
10th Degree Black Belt
In general, students can achieve their 1st degree Shotokan Black Belt in five to seven years of consistent and focused training. Once achieved, a Black Belt is a designation you will hold for the rest of your life. It is indeed a lifetime achievement.