Missing Class

Students should come to class often, because (realistically) it's the only place to receive corrections. Without corrections, mistakes and errors become bad habits, which left alone leads to poor karate.

Some students become "hooked" on karate training, and place too high of a priority on their training. Miyagi Sensei taught that family should always come first. So, if your training is causing trouble at home, then the conscientious student should examine which he or she has placed a greater emphasis on: training or family. Miyagi Sensei taught that work should come second. And, he taught that karate training should come close behind these. While it often feels comforting to seek solace in training, beware of losing balance in life.

If you have an injury, then often it's best to rest the injury, allowing time for it to heal. Come to class, but watch instead of exercise. Often, students can learn more through active observation.

And, if you must miss class, then make an extra effort to practice on your own, to keep your sharpness and to avoid falling behind.