Karate
Our core style is Shoto Ryu Karate, a ‘traditional’ style, in that it is a martial art, not a sport; although we now focus on close quarters application. We draw inspiration from the early self-protection methods of karate’s founders prior to it's adoption and adaptation in Japan.
Tai Chi
We practise Tai Chi Ch’uan not just to enhance our health, but also as a martial art - learning the application of each move. We practise two forms, Yang and Chen, as well as the two person practice of Push Hands and the Two Person Tai Chi form.
Weapons
Within our Karate and Tai Chi classes we use a variety of weapons to enhance our practice; improving co-ordination and hip movement. Each weapon deepens our understanding of body mechanics, reinforcing the fluid, natural movement at the heart of our practice.
Our techniques are built on the body’s natural mechanics, using posture and skeletal alignment to generate power with minimal effort. By keeping the spine straight, hips level and shoulders down, we create a stable column from which every strike, block and lock flows. Power springs from coordinated hip rotation, and limb flexion, so even small shifts in weight become efficient engines of force. In partner drills we refine these body mechanics to remain rooted, balanced and ready.
We encourage a state of relaxed readiness - muscles held in poised, natural tension that primes us for instantaneous action. This calm baseline underpins rapid, decisive movement: at the moment of impact we briefly engage our core and limbs to generate explosive force, then seamlessly release back into relaxation to reset posture. By flowing through this soft-to-hard rhythm, we eliminate wasted energy and preserve stamina. Over time, the transition between relaxation and tension becomes instinctive, allowing each strike to land with maximum speed, precision, and effortless power.
The centre point or tan dien is located a little below the navel. Many martial arts concentrate on this point during practice, as this consolidates balance and body positioning. A grounded centre also lets us transfer force efficiently from our base through each technique, making transitions smoother and strikes more forceful.
Practised correctly, martial arts strengthen both mind and focus. While our primary emphasis is on mastering practical techniques, the disciplined repetition of forms also cultivates sustained attention and mental clarity. Performing each sequence with clear intent reinforces technical proficiency and transforms practice into a moving meditation.
Precise timing and optimal distancing are the cornerstones of effective application of technique. Through sensitivity drills and partner exercises, practitioners refine their ability to gauge range, anticipate movement, and respond with coordinated precision. These interactive sessions reinforce all other techniques, fostering fluid connection and adaptability in every exchange.
Adults only lessons (18+)
Karate
Tai Chi
