Karate training stresses the application of maximum power when delivering a technique and this is often supplemented with a kiai. This is the noise or yell a karate practitioner makes to generate additional power in a strike. Beginner students often feel intimidated in performing the kiai and expressing themselves this way. However, over time, even some of the most timid find the self-confidence to overcome this with training and encouragement.

A common concern amongst parents is whether or not the school practices the art of board breaking. For starters, board breaking is practiced among some martial arts clubs to teach students proper focus of power and it is also a tool to build confidence. For young children, however, breaking should be initially confined to pieces of styrofoam, for example. Although karate and board-breaking seem to be synonomous, you will find that this practice is more prominent in Taekwondo. Before jumping to conclusions about a club teaching board-breaking, speak to the instructor about his/her safety precautions. To re-iterate, if done safely and in progression, board-breaking practice can be a lot of fun for your child and build some additional confidence.

There are several styles of karate practiced around the world such as Shito, Goju, Shotokan, Kempo, and Wado. Although similar body mechanics come into play, each style has unique characteristics which could determine the eventual school chosen. Although karate is almost always taught with the full application of power, there are styles which have "soft" elements such as evasiveness. This could be seen as a plus for the smaller student who is less likely to meet force with force. This Tai Sabaki is well-known amongst Wado-style karateka (karate practitioners). Other styles, such as Shotokan karate, stress "hard" elements and are more likely to meet force with force. Always keep in mind that although a club may be described by a "style", it is often the case that the instructor will incorporate elements from different styles to create a more well-rounded student or mirror his/her own diverse experience.

Most karate schools incorporate the traditional Japanese terminology throughout the instruction. In addition, eastern elements to training are often taught, for example, the application of ki or the inner life force which karateka draw from. These elements and terminology are often lost amongst western culture and it may or may not be of interest to you. You will find schools maintaining a traditional eastern flavor and those staying with a homegrown western approach which de-emphasizes foreign terms and philosophy.

Regardless of style, most karate organizations practice kata. Kata is a pre-set series of movements which preserve combinations of the technique which characterize that style. Kata emphasizes the application of power, deep and powerful stances, balance, and proper breathing. Typically, as a student advances in rank, katas become more complex and longer in duration.

Karateka also practice kumite or freestyle sparring. Added protective equipment is often mandatory to take part although there are exceptions to the rule. Some schools allow a greater degree of bodily contact to be made which warrants the use of hand, foot, chest, groin, mouth, and head protection. Other schools practice focus of technique (execution of technique without bodily contact). This often requires minimal, if any, equipment. Taking the time to watch a class can give you a good clue as to whether a club meets your expectations.

The practice of kata and kumite are the main components which are featured in tournament competition. Medals and trophies are often awarded although the true reward of tournament competition is the opportunity for a student to demonstrate his/her karate under some pressure. Merely participating can give a child a tremendous sense of accomplishment. The pressure felt in a tournament should never come from an overly-ambitious sensei (teacher). Although it is generally rare, there have been instructors who have embarrassed themselves by doing this and even more unfortunate, discouraging a young martial artist. The bottom line is that karate training should be be hard work but a rewarding experience for your child, and that does not have to include medals or trophies.