If you're not enjoying being there, then there is little to no self defense value being produced. People get good at things because they want to do them, not because they have to. No one can simply "teach" self defense. It has to be mentally embedded by the student through dedicated practice. And you certainly don't sound very dedicated to this school.
Not all Karate schools are the same. Anyone who earned their black belt thinks they can immediately open up a school, which is dead wrong. It takes decades of experience to be qualified to teach. And then there's the issue of knowing how to teach. Just because someone is knowledgeable doesn't mean they can create a stimulating class experience. Some teachers are dry and boring, where other are exciting and get you pumped up.
I recommend finding a different place. You clearly have no attachment to this place you're in now. Whether you learn Karate or some other style, what's important most of all is having a good teacher. If self defense is what you're after, then a good teacher is crucial.
Sounds to me like you've answered your own question.
I'm also the author of the article Ammon made reference to and although there are many ways karate is useless, it has its good points too. Karate for me was good as a youngster but then again my dojo had a lot more people in it and as such better personality diversity. Perhaps you'd like to try a different club? Or maybe even a different art altogether. Karate is kind of near the bottom of the pile anyway.
In short, karate is obviously not your thing. Therefore leave and go find your thing!
If you really dislike your classes that much, just be honest and drop out. There's nothing to be ashamed of. On a side note, if you still want to learn how to fight, you may actually want to try a different martial art more suited for self-defense: an art created for modern-day street combat and other sudden self-defense scenarios. They will even most likely allow you to surpass the other neighborhood kids in fighting techniques, so you can laugh if they ever try to bring it up or brag about their new belts. If you are interested in trying a new art, check here: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/a-list-of... this contains most of your common martial arts, as well as a few weapon-wielding arts. Personally, I would most highly recommend Kajukenbo or Krav Maga, as both are extremely efficient and potentially lethal modern techniques.
A lot of people may argue that Martial Arts gives you great self-defense, but I have never seen anyone use it correctly from these town classes. Usually, it benefits only the teacher, who gets your money. If a situation occurs in which you need to defend yourself, you have exactly 0 time to get in a stance and in a fighting position.
Karate is a waste of time, and you could only use it effectively if you were attacking someone, and you had time to prepare, which is also the exact opposite of what you're supposed to use it for.
This is something you should talk about to your Sensei. You might just have to simply find your passion.
Ammon,ammon,ammon.....
In a situation like that you dont have to,assume a form just use what younknow to fight.
Why dont you just learn to street fight that way you teach yourself
yes you should. karate is good
See, I've not been in my karate class for a long time (two weeks) and after two weeks (not everyday but every week on Thursday) and I don't like it. My mother put the neighbor kids (two boys who enjoy pushing my limits even when I just want to punch them in the face. One is a legal adult or 18 years old and the other one is a 4 grader and I'm in between their ages so I am a teenager) and myself in karate and I feel embarrassed when I walk into the class and I just don't enjoy it. I'm only doing this for self defense learning and was sticking it out for the neighbor boys. I have no desires to truly be in these classes and I thought maybe I should just drop it and hope no one gets mad. Also the last 2 and the upcoming session this week are given to us for free this month so this would be a great time to get out. If I get out, the boys will not be forced to drop out of anything. I just don't have a passion for it and it truly expects a lot of work and dedication. So, should I stay in karate?
