Questions, answered.

Yes. Newcomers start with a free intro class, then a 2 to 4 week trial program, usually offered at a discounted rate.

Fill out the trial class form and pick a time. Or email us the student's name and age and your preferred start date, and we will contact you to arrange the first session.

Yes. For our youngest group (4 to 7) we have developed exercises and games over the years that teach valuable skills and are fun at the same time. They focus on general fitness and athleticism, plus very basic karate techniques.

No need. Most people pick up karate to get fit: it is a proven, effective system for building athleticism and fitness, self-defence aside. Intensity is adjustable to match your ability, without too much pressure.

No. There are a few options. You can start with a 6-month commitment, or choose a short-term membership you can cancel with 60 days' notice.

Students usually attend 1 to 3 sessions a week. For newcomers we recommend 2. If 2 isn't doable, 1 a week is fine for a while. Membership depends on sessions per week; we go through the options and costs with you at your free intro.

Parents with kids in our classes report:

• Better self-discipline and self-control
• Better focus and ability to concentrate
• Better overall fitness and athleticism: strength, speed, flexibility
• More self-confidence
• A better understanding of goal setting and planning for success
• And much more

Yes. Classes are age-specific: 4 to 7, 8 to 12, and teens and adults. Kids at different ages have different interests and abilities, so we don't have all ages train together.

Yes. Karate revolves around self-defence, so you will learn many skills that could help you protect yourself if you ever face a violent attacker.

Yes. Classes are designed to deliver a workout and to teach or polish a set of skills. Intensity is adjustable, so you can get more, or less, of a workout on any given day.

1. Attend 2 sessions a week, consistently.
2. Make a big deal of exams and every rank your child earns.
3. Get involved yourself. Your child will be far more motivated, and accept training as part of life, when they see you in a uniform too, even if you train less often. Even at a minimal level, you will learn what your child does in class and can help them train at home. Families who kick together, stick together.

Yes, but not regularly. If you have a child in our classes, every once in a while we invite you to a family class so you can train with your child and learn how to train with them effectively at home. Kids and parents love it.

Yes. When more than one person joins at the same time, you earn referral credit for the 2nd and 3rd members: a tuition discount plus a free one-month course extension for each member who signs up for regular training. Ask us for details.

Shotokan karate. The Powerhouse is well known for karate in Vancouver and specializes in the Shotokan style, the most widely practiced karate style worldwide, with millions of followers.

Fitness kickboxing is part of our curriculum, not a stand-alone program. FKB and pad work are fairly easy to learn: a fun alternative to typical karate classes, focused on fitness and sparring skills. Mainly interested in FKB? Let us know and we will explain further.

Yes. We can arrange a call with one of the instructors (made by WhatsApp). Email us, ask for a call back, and suggest a time. The fastest way to get answers is still email: powerhouseoffice@gmail.com. You can also call (604) 812-3656.