Karate is a Okinawan/Japanese Martial Art - that is, a fighting system, with useful techniques that can ultimately be used for self-defence.

To be able to use Karate effectively, each separate technique - blocking, kicking, punching etc. - has to first be practised individually then put together into different combinations during basic training. Only after understanding the basics can students begin to learn how to apply them to the varied circumstances they may encounter.

Traditional set forms called 'KATA' have been handed down by masters from previous generations for the purpose of perfecting the techniques learnt at each stage. These play an important part in development. The style of Karate we practice at the Kazoku Karate Dojo is called ‘Shito-Ryu'; (pronounced She-Toh-Ree-oo) it retains many of these original forms.

More than a simple sport or keep-fit method, Karate develops mastery of both mind and body. The more diligent the study, the greater the result.

Master Kenwa Mabuni with Yasuhiro Konishi (left)

The Karate we practice is very traditional 'Japanese', with much emphasis on the 'Do' or 'Way' of Karate. Through our Karate-Do training we strive to improve our character through good etiquette, discipline and perfection of technique in order to better understand ourselves. Karate-Do is not about fighting 'per se', but more about learning not to fight, through the rigours of physical and mental training.

Whole families can take up Karate - and often do! Come with your friends, or come to make friends. You can practice on your own too, when you have a few spare minutes in your day. Children from as young as eight years of age are welcome. Its also a great way to improve fitness, strength, flexibility and co-ordination.

We at the Kazoku Karate Dojo mirror the training methods of the Japan headquarters Dojo, therefore there is great emphasis placed upon tradition, etiquette and discipline.

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