Q: What should I wear to class?

Beginners can wear loose-fitting, comfortable workout clothes. Eventually, you'll need a traditional white gi (uniform) that you can purchase from online retailers or you can purchase from our dojo. If you have questions about sizing or need recommendations, ask Senpai Sogyel.

You are welcome to wear (white) Karate Gis that you own from past dojos or martial arts schools.

Q: Do I need prior experience to join?

A: No prior experience is necessary. We welcome beginners of all fitness levels and ages. Please inform Senpai Sogyel about any injuries you may have.

Q: Who is the instructor?

A: Senpai Sogyel Lhungay (2nd Dan) has 2 decades of Kyokushin experience and has trained under a variety of masters including: Shihan Sakataka (World Oyama Karate, NJ), Sensei Iwata (Iwata Dojo, NYC) and Sensei Nick Toma (Capital Kyokushin, Washington DC). Senpai Sogyel is passionate about sharing the teachings that these great karatekas have imparted on him.

Q: What is Kyokushin Karate?

A: Kyokushin Karate is a full-contact style of karate founded by Sosai Masutatsu Oyama in 1964. It emphasizes practical techniques, rigorous physical conditioning, and a strong spirit.

Q: What can I expect in a Kyokushin Karate class?

A: Classes typically include warm-ups, basics (kihon), forms (kata), partner drills, sparring (kumite), and conditioning exercises like pad work and strength training.

Q: Is Kyokushin Karate safe?

A: Safety is a priority for us. While Kyokushin is full-contact, controlled sparring is introduced gradually as students progress in skill and experience. As with any contact martial art or sport, there is a degree of risk of physical injuries. All new students must sign a liability waiver.

Q: Can children participate in Kyokushin Karate?

A: At this time, we do not offer classes for children. Teenagers 16 years old and above are welcome to join our adult classes at Senpai Sogyel’s discretion.

Q: What are the benefits of practicing Kyokushin Karate?

A: Practicing Kyokushin Karate offers numerous benefits, including improved fitness, self-confidence, discipline, stress relief, and the opportunity to learn self-defense skills. Most importantly, Kyokushin Karate practice develops an indomitable fighting spirit - Fighto!

Q: Is San Diego Kyokushin Karate classes included for San Diego Judo & Jiujitsu students?

A: We are extremely grateful for the support and generosity of Sensei Akiyama and Sensei Jacob towards our fledging group. However, we are a separate organization with separate fees, management and member admin. Therefore, members of SDJJ must separately purchase a SDKK membership to train with us. Note that we have several SDJJ members that cross train with SDKK (including Senpai Sogyel)!

Q: How can I get started?

A: Contact us to schedule a trial class. We encourage prospective students to observe or try out a class and speak with Senpai Sogyel to learn more about our dojo and Kyokushin Karate.