frequently asked questions
FAQ
f.a.q.
At UBAKC, we believe that developing our students mentally and physically with martial arts combat many issues we face in today’s society. Living in the tech capital of the world, we find a number of advantages and disadvantages with children being exposed to electronics at such a young age. 20 years ago, parents did not have to beg their child to play outside. Now, the common parent of Silicon Valley finds hardship in getting their kids to put down their iPad to go play with friends.
What ages do you accept?
UBAKC offers programs from ages 4 years old and above.
How long are your classes?
Each class is 35 minutes to one hour depending on their age group.
Will I learn self-defense?
UBAKC is designed to teach students self-defense skills through traditional practice with application to live simulation and awareness drills. We also provide students anti- bullying techniques and class discussions to assist in combating common issues affecting our youth today. Self-defense is cultivated through continuous activity and awareness.
What is karate?
When you translate the term karate from Japanese to English, “kara” means “empty hand” and “te” means “the way”. It is essentially “the way of the empty hand” or self- defense without weapons.
With the opening of the Silk Road trade routes running through the island of Okinawa circa 1372; it brought along Chinese visitors who introduced their martial arts techniques to Okinawans.
However, in 1609, the practice of karate/ empty- handed fighting were banned due to governmental changes, so karate was then refined and taught in secret. These techniques became the basis for modern karate.
What style of karate is taught at UBAKC?
Our program teaches Goju Ryu Karate- Do, a form of Japanese- Okinawan Martial Arts that combines the circular, re-directional movement of Chinese Kenpo and direct, linear movements of traditional Japanese Karate.
Who is the head instructor?
Sensei Joane Orbon is a third-degree black belt who has over 19 years of experience. Starting her journey with karate from a young age, Sensei Joane is now a 12-time USA National Champion and has been on the United States National Team from 2008-2019. Sensei Orbon has been on multiple World Championship Teams and is also ranked 7th in the World and 6th in the Premier Karatel League in 2018. She also holds 6 Pan American Continental Championship Titles and now aims to spread her knowledge and experience to the next generation of karate practitioners in the Bay Area.
Do you compete in tournaments?
UBAKC competes regionally, nationally, and internationally. With Sensei Joane Orbon's high-performance training program and experience, students have access to the most current skills and strategies in the world. UBAKC targets select competitions year-round to prepare athletes for a seat on the USA National Karate Team. The Team USA National Team represents the country at World Events against other countries. This is an honor for any athlete.
Will this be good for my family?
We make it a conscious effort to provide a stress- free, drama-free, positive family learning environment for our students while developing true martial arts skills. It takes a village to raise a child, so choosing a sport and community to be a part of is monumental in raising positive individuals in the area.
Dojo Hours
Mon: 4:00pm - 8:30pm
Tue: 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Wed: 4:00pm - 8:30pm
Thu: 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Fri: 9:00am - 12:00pm
Sat: CLOSED
Sun: CLOSED