Shotokan karate is characterised by its focus on understanding and controlling the distance between you and your opponent. It involves generating power using strong stances, punching and kicking. Closing the distance leads to grappling and throwing. This makes karate a martial art you can practise many techniques by yourself and with others. Karate is perfected alone, and tested together with a partner.

Karate starts with individual learning of techniques like punching and kicking (kihon) and then this is tested with partner work (kumite). We also practise kata which are prearranged set of techniques that build upon indvidual learning and can be applied practically.

Classes are open to all abilities and there is no set structure to the class - each one reflects on the range of people who attend. Most sessions will practise basic techniques and concepts on your own and then with a partner.

There is no competitive element in class, and everyone improves at their own pace. Hopefully, everyone comes away from a session feeling like they have something new to practise!

At first, techniques will feel strange, weak and uncoordinated. After a while, they will become more comfortable. At this point, there is a strong technical aspect with regards to body mechanics which requires self-reflection and engagement with the content in order to optimise the movement.

We welcome anyone who has a background in martial arts and only ask that you keep an open mind to a slightly different way of doing things! Often you will find that your skills transfer over very well, and can pick up karate-specific concepts much more easily than a complete beginner.

If you have a belt in karate in a different style, we are happy for you to wear whatever colour you feel comfortable with. If you are joining us from a different shotokan association, you can then usually pick up where you left off with the JKA. We don't place any emphasis on competition training but there is opportunity to learn the rules and attend competitions if you wish.

Many techniques can be applied in a self-defense situation, particularly when exploring kata. During class, we practise 'zanshin' - a 'state of relaxed alertness' which teaches you to remain focused under pressure and, if anything, may give you the upper hand in any confrontation as you react instinctively instead of panicking.

That being said, the best form of self-defense is always to disengage and get away!

Training teaches everyone to control the amount of power in a strike. Depending on the exercises, your body will ache after training; similar to going to the gym. With partner work, we encourage controlling your techniques to avoid making contact. Sometimes bruising may happen when practising blocks and some conditioning is to be expected. There is a difference between feeling uncomfortable and being in pain and it’s always best to raise this with your partner or the instructor.

It should be remembered that injuries can take a long time to heal and we all have lives outside of training!

If you're happy to continue training with us a JKA licence will be needed to register your grade and provide insurance. This costs £35 and lasts for a year. You will also need a karate-gi (suit) to wear for grading and training - starting at about £30-£40.

Grading fee is £15 for kyu (beginner) grades.

We are an adult-only club.