sampionce

Well, the situation is a bit different... I come from another country which (unfortunately) doesn't exist anymore. We don't even speak the same language. Well, in that country I had my BB (when I was 14-15 years of age). And, my last practice session (or tournament, whatever it was...) was 25 years ago. This all I told (of course) to the Sensei. I even suggested that I'm willing to start it all over again (I already ordered a custom-made White belt). He said "Noooo, that would take too long time to come back where you were." And yes, he added - "Don't rush. Take it easy. You'll need some time." So, here I am. Honestly, I don't think I'll be under a huge microscope (as I forgot many things; katas mainly; I believe I'm OK with stances and other), but MOST OF ALL spirit is still there! I'd say, stronger than ever! 'Cause, it's now that I understand what exactly Karate is all about...

Now, some really GREAT news!!! I've just spoken with the Chief-Sensei in the Academy where I'd like to practice. I told him that I was Black-belt 25 years ago and that I'm willing to be back again in karate. Guess what?! He told me that I could come with my Black belt to practice with them and that there's no problem. I thought I'd be going it all over again from White belt... Really great stuff!

Now, some really GREAT news!!! I've just spoken with the Chief-Sensei in an Academy where I'd like to practice. I told him that I was Black-belt 25 years ago and that I'm willing to be back again in karate. Guess what?! He told him that I can come with my Black belt to practice with them... I thought I'd be going it all over again from White belt... Really great stuff!

@David The Gnome How much did your Gi shrink so far?

Pleasure's all mine.

I know it's very old... But, have you sold your Shureido New Wave 3?

And yes, I have no possibility to try test them... So it will have to be a "blind" order.

Thanks for the tips. I'm kind of narrowing my choice to Japanese-made Gi's. Here's what that will be most probably: - Hirota 163 Kata - Shureido New Wave 3 - Shureido TKC-10 - Shobu Special 12 oz. - Hayabusa Champion (I believe this is USA made). So, if you have comparative experience with these Gi's, what would be your Pro and Contra's ?

Thanks!!

Where can one get those 45mm belts? Is there option to have them embroidered?

Well, as I introduced myself, I'm 40 years old. I had my black belt more than 25 years ago (soon after that I stopped practicing Karate and went to basketball...) and now my 6 years old kid starts to practice Shotokan Karate. Seeing him, I start to feel again that voice from the inside... Now I'd like to be back in karate. I'm looking for a reel good Karate Gi for myself. The price really doesn't matter, as I want to make an investment in a Gi that will last for years (I don't think I'll grow any more... ). I prefer shorter cut Gi's, Japanese style, for Kata mainly. I don't see myself in Kumite any more... I'm 185cm (6' 1") tall and 92 kg (200 lbs). I have a strong body, and I'm not fat. Now, what are your suggestions for a Heavyweight (or not?) great Kata Gi? Thanks! Cheers.

Hello everyone. I'm (almost) 40 years old. Live in Switzerland. I had my black belt in Shotokan karate in Yugoslavia more than 25 years ago. I started at age of 6. Now my kid starts the same style and same age I used to start karate. Seeing him, I wish to be back in karate. Well, here I am...