There is often a lack of understanding between what a martial art and a self defence system is. It is important to note that if you are studying karate (for example), you will learn a lot of techniques that have no real bearing on self defence in our world, unless your teacher can show how to adjust them. The reason is quite simple;

• Many martial arts (Shotokan Karate included) have been modified to suit the requirements of a 'sport'. Many of the sport activities, such as jiyu kumite, are useful in developing mobility, distance, etc... they are NOT suitable self defence techniques as they are practiced in the dojo. Shotokan karate was adjusted to meet the needs of the Okinawan (and later Japanese) school systems so all the dangerous techniques were removed or hidden and teaching was by verbal interpretation and instruction (kuden).

• Most martial arts students are taught to deal with stylised attacks where the responses are governed by strict rules. Target areas, degree of force and methods of striking, throwing and locking are restricted. Training is by Ritual rather than Realism.

So, why learn a martial art? Well, the basic training is an excellent way to develop ones body to enable it to perform 'real' karate applications with speed, accuracy and effectiveness. It is not a fast route to self defence effectiveness though!

If you wish to learn self defence methods then we suggest that you join our adult lessons and study karate that is based on effectiveness. We incorporate throwing, locking, kyusho (pressure point) and knife threat defence techniques to ensure that our system is as effective as the training time permits.

We also conduct periodic self defence training for organisations/groups and some examples of these are;

2008 - Public Taster session in aid of Leukaemia Research

           Crawley Borough Council

           Kent Youth Service

2007 - Holmsdale Technology college

            Public Ladies self defence course

            First For Fun

2006 - Minster Voluntary Life guard Club

            Public course

2004 - Bedgebury Girls School

           Minster Life Saving Club

2002 - Maidstone Company events (public)

2001 - Chamber of Commerce (Maidstone)