FAQ
Beginners: Enrolment and Trial Classes
What age can my child start karate?
Our students range from age 4 to over 60. Children aged 4 or above can join the Children & Youth classes, and adults are welcome in the Youth & Adult classes. We place each student in a suitable class based on age and level. Feel free to ask if you have any questions.
Can I try a class first? What should I bring?
Trial classes are welcome. Each student may take one trial class, which costs $100 and can be booked on WhatsApp. Just wear comfortable sportswear and bring water; classes are done barefoot, and there's no need to buy a uniform beforehand.
How are fees calculated?
Fees are based on the number of classes you actually book each month: $880 per 4 classes ($220 per class). There are no classes, and no charge, on public holidays. Each month you can choose classes and pay in the student portal, and siblings in the same family can pay together.
Do I need to buy a uniform?
Once enrolled, students wear a karate uniform (gi) to class. A new uniform costs $400 and can be ordered from your coach, who will suggest a size based on the student's height.
Enrolment for Students Transferring from Another Dojo
Which karate style does Lau's Karate practise?
Lau's Karate practises Shito-ryu and is registered with the Karatedo Federation of Hong Kong, China as Shitoryu Karate Kenkai (糸東拳會); our grading also follows the Shitoryu Karate Kenkai system.
I am transferring from another dojo. Do I need to start again from white belt?
No, you do not need to start again from white belt. As techniques can differ between styles, we suggest booking a trial class first. Our coaches will assess your level during class and then assign a suitable grade.
What is the difference between Shito-ryu and Goju-ryu?
Both are traditional karate styles from Okinawa. Goju-ryu was founded by Chojun Miyagi and comes from the Naha-te tradition. It combines hard and soft techniques, with an emphasis on breathing, close-range techniques and circular movements, and is built on the kata Sanchin. Shito-ryu was founded by Kenwa Mabuni, who studied under both Anko Itosu (Shuri-te) and Kanryo Higaonna (Naha-te); the style's name comes from his two teachers' names. It therefore combines features of both traditions and includes a wider range of kata. Before learning Shito-ryu, Coach Lau Chi Ming and Coach Grace Lau trained in Goju-ryu for over ten years, and both have a thorough command of the two styles.
Attending classes
What if my child misses a class or is sick?
If you know before paying that you will miss a class, untick it when paying and you won't be charged for it. Fees for classes missed at short notice after payment are non-refundable; with a doctor's certificate for that day, you may carry the fee forward or attend a make-up class.
Can I book extra or make-up classes?
Yes. Students can book extra or make-up classes at other times under "Extra Class / Sick Leave" in the student portal. The system shows the classes suitable for each student's class group and age.
Are classes cancelled in bad weather?
Classes run as normal under Amber or Red Rainstorm signals or Typhoon Signal No. 1 or 3. Under a Black Rainstorm signal or Typhoon Signal No. 8 or above, the decision is based on the situation two hours before class: if the signal is still in force, the class is cancelled; if it has been lowered, the class goes ahead. Fees for classes cancelled due to bad weather are carried forward automatically.
How can parents check fees and class details?
Every student has a student portal account to read the latest news, choose classes and pay, book extra classes, apply for sick leave and watch online teaching videos. The portal is available in Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese and English.
Gradings and competitions
Are there belt gradings?
Yes. Lau's Karate follows the Shitoryu Karate Kenkai grading system, with gradings held every four months. Students need an attendance rate of over 80% and a recommendation from their coach to take part. Students may not be able to grade every time; they must reach the required technical standard. See the Grading page for the syllabus and demonstration videos.
Can students take part in competitions?
Yes. Coaches recommend students for local and overseas competitions according to their level. Students who want to compete can join our squad training classes on a coach's recommendation for more systematic training. Lau's Karate students have been selected for the Hong Kong karate team, and through their results at overseas competitions have gone on to become full-time athletes.
How can a student join the Hong Kong team?
The Hong Kong karate team is selected by the Karatedo Federation of Hong Kong, China, mainly based on results at the Federation's Hong Kong Open Championships. Students enter through their member dojo. Selection requirements change every year; please refer to the Federation's announcements.
Lau's Karate coaches recommend suitable students for the Hong Kong Open and squad training according to their level and potential, and help them work towards selection.
Lau's Karate student Eugenie Chan represented Hong Kong at the 2026 World Cadet, Junior and U21 Karate Championships and won bronze in Female Cadet Individual Kata, becoming the first Hong Kong karateka to win a medal at the World Youth Championships.
Karate Knowledge
What are the benefits of karate for children?
Beyond fitness, children learn focus, discipline, confidence and courtesy, and how to handle winning and losing. Read the five benefits and book a trial class.
What is the difference between karate and taekwondo?
Karate and taekwondo both value courtesy and discipline, but differ in origin, technique and competition: taekwondo is known for kicks, while karate uses hands and feet equally. Compare them and choose what suits your child.
What is the best age to start karate?
Children can begin at 4, and adults and seniors can learn too. See what each age group focuses on, from 4 to 6, 7 to 12, teens and adults, and choose the right class.
What do karate belt colours mean?
From white, yellow, green, purple and brown to black, each colour marks a stage of learning. See how grades match belts, what Dan ranks are, and how grading works.
What are kata and kumite in karate?
Kata is a set sequence of attack and defence moves performed alone, while kumite is two people sparring. Learn how these two competition events differ, how they are scored and what skills they build.
How to prepare for your first karate class
For a trial, light sportswear is enough, with no need to buy a uniform first. Bring water and a towel. Check what to wear, what to bring and dojo etiquette before you come.