To begin your practice of karate at the Torrance Dojo, all you need to do is register and show up to class regularly. After you have practiced for a few months, you might naturally like to know how you are progressing and wonder if you can be graded. Kyu tests are held twice a year in April and November. There are no fees to participate in kyu tests.

In order to participate in kyu tests or other SKA activities outside of Torrance Dojo, you must be a member of SKA.

• SKA membership dues are for each calendar year, and are $125 per year for non-black belts.

In addition to the privilege of participating in kyu tests. The most important benefit of being a member in SKA is the opportunity to attend practices at the Shotokan Ohshima Dojo (SOD) in Santa Barbara, California.  The following SOD practices are open to beginners :

• Kids practice (for kids and parents who are practicing) – typically held in June
• Open practice after the Nisei Week Tournament – typically the Sunday following the first Saturday in August
• Elder practice (white belts over 40 years old, brown belts over 45 years old, and black belts over 50 years old) – typically held in December
• Last practice of the year – first Saturday in December

In addition, each year, SOD hosts practices for women, brown belts, and black belts.