The beginner program is designed for students with no prior experience in Shotokan karate. All training is done in group sessions.

Drop In /Beginner Classes are held on Mondays, from 7:30 to 9:00 pm. Begineer classes are held on Thursdays, from 7:30 - 9:00 pm. The training moves quickly and good attendance is crucial. Drop in classes are for YMCA members who are interested in finding out if karate is right for them. Once they have attended 4 sessions they are encouraged to become beginners and receive instruction leading up to the grading for their first belt. Once beginner students have attained the necessary proficiency in basic techniques, kata and kumite they will move to the coloured belt times. This usually occurs following the first session.

A uniform is not required for the beginner class. Students should wear a plain t-shirt and sweat pants until they purchase a gi. A uniform is required for rank testing and for all classes afterward.

Advanced students looking for additional practice may train in this class, provided that attendance is regular.

The Edmonton JKA trains continuously during the year. Students with prior Shotokan experience may join at any time. Ranks conferred by mainstream Shotokan groups will normally be recognized, but students who are not ready to resume training at their previous rank level will ordinarily wear a white belt until they regain the standard of their previous rank. In some cases, it will be necessary to re-test for JKA or CJKF rank.

Students with experience in other martial arts are not granted advanced standing, but will usually be able to achieve higher levels of proficiency, more quickly, as a result of this experience.