Classes begin with a series of stretching and warming up exercises.

Students then learn to perform a series of strikes, blocks, and kicks and to combine these techniques to block and counter-attack an imaginary opponent.

Techniques are then practiced with partners in very controlled circumstances under the watchful eye of the instructor. This helps students learn how to react against an attack.

The lesson continues with kata - a sequence of moves to a set pattern to demonstrate blocking and attacking several opponents in different directions.

The class then ends with warm down exercises.

Students progress through periodic tests or gradings where they will be expected to demonstrate their skill to an experienced assessor from the JKA. Success at each stage is rewarded by a coloured belt system up to the first black belt or “shodan”, and beyond.