We understand that the hardest step is the first one. It can feel daunting to walk through the door and try something new, but we want you to know that everyone in our club felt the same way once. Our "People-Centric Karate" pledge is our promise to make you feel welcome, comfortable, and fully supported every step of the way.
Our community is built on empathy and encouragement. You'll never be pressured to keep up or feel out of place. We'll introduce you to a friendly, experienced member who will guide you through the basics at your own pace. Our classes are designed to build confidence and help you feel a sense of belonging from day one. You can be reassured that we'll do everything we can to help you settle in and find your footing on your new journey.
Rob Jones
Yes, our classes are absolutely perfect for complete beginners. In fact, most of our members started with no experience at all.
We have a dedicated beginners program designed to make that first step feel easy and comfortable, allowing you to learn the fundamentals at your own pace. You'll be paired with a friendly, experienced member who will guide you every step of the way, so you never feel lost.
On your first visit, you'll be greeted by a friendly instructor and invited to join a gentle, 20-minute warm-up of aerobic exercise and stretching. Everyone works at their own pace, as our members are of all ages and abilities. Following the warm-up, you will be paired with an experienced class member who will help you with some basic techniques and support you throughout the session. The instructor will also be available to answer any questions you may have.
That's a great question, as it gets to the heart of who we are.
Unlike many clubs, our focus is not on competition or combat. While we do study and practice the traditional movements of karate, we do so with a people-centric philosophy.
Our approach is rooted in practical self-defence that teaches you to remain calm under pressure and use an attacker's energy to your advantage. This method is tied to a deeper, more traditional goal: using the practice to help you develop a profound sense of inner peace, harmony, and personal well-being.
We understand that "fitness" is a relative thing, and everyone starts somewhere. Whatever your current level, our karate classes are designed to help you improve. We ensure everyone can work at their own pace during warm-ups and stretching, so you can build your fitness comfortably and confidently.
Our approach to karate is founded upon the Shotokai style as practised by Mitsusuke Harada sensei but influenced and inspired by Egami Ryu as practised by the Nippon Karate-Do Yutenkai. Master Egami believed that power and penetration could be achieved without physical tension therefore a relaxed body and calm state of mind are very important.
The Zenshin dojo syllabus also includes Koryu Uchinadi exercises and techniques as practised by Patrick McCarthy Hanshi. There are many styles of karate each offering something a little different.
Yes, based on a coloured belt system. In the early years of your development, assessment of your progress is continual yet informal and the responsibility of the instructor who you see most. Later assessments are more structured and take place on specific occasions in front of at least two senior persons. There are no costs attached to any grading.
We are an independent karate club, not affiliated with any larger group. However, we have close friendships with similar clubs around the UK, Europe, and the world. We regularly travel to Italy and Japan to train and learn from a wonderfully talented group of Japanese karate masters.
Yes, absolutely. Most of our students aim to regularly practice twice a week. The club is designed to offer different times, days and locations so most people “mix and match” and are able to fit regular attendance with their busy lives.
For our classes and venues, click here.
For more information about any of our classes or if you'd like to try our 4 free lessons, please get in touch with us.
We look forward to meeting and practicing with you soon.
