Ilkley Karate Club - Est. 1988

Shito-Ryu Shukokai Union

Welcome to Ilkley Karate Club

Ilkley Karate Club is the longest running Karate Club in the local area. It is a friendly open club with a string of successes at international, national and local level competitions.

We train at the Ben Rhydding Methodist Church four times a week (Tuesday, Thursday and Friday evenings, and Saturday mornings).

We follow the Shukokai style of karate which in its most basic translation means: “An association where people come together to study the martial arts”. This is core to the focus of the club which encourages mutual respect and coming together to learn.

Please browse the site which hopefully will answer many of your questions, but if not – please don’t hesitate to get in touch using our contact page

We would encourage anyone to try karate - it aims to develop: character, humility, confidence, self esteem, self control, determination, and patience. No other physical discipline offers so much. The art of karate also develops and enhances physical abilities that would take a multitude of sports to develop. Students improve balance, coordination, muscle tone, cardio-vascular conditioning, timing, rhythm, hand-eye coordination, hand-foot coordination, and flexibility...All that, and self defence as well. You won't learn most of this lifting weights or running on a treadmill at a gym.

Mark Outterside

Sensei and Founder of Ilkley Karate Club

news

Club News and Updates

July 26th 2020

It now looks like we will be able to return to indoor karate classes in a few days time. We have our risk assessment in place (see below) and the Church hall we use is putting theirs in place following a meeting on Monday 20 July 2020. This will then need to be put to the members and approved by the Minister so the earliest we can start back will be 4 August all being well.

I will be looking to introduce an online booking system ASAP as numbers will be restricted.

For those who can’t attend the indoor sessions due to their circumstances I will still be holding a couple of online classes each week.

It is important that anyone returning and training indoors has an up to date karate licence. Any that have expired will need to be renewed before taking part. I have received a list of current licence holders and therefore insured to train.

IKC Covid Risk Assessment

1/ Safe Entry and exit to the hall maintaining social distancing. That is clearly marked and orderly entry and exit.
2/ Restrict the numbers attending to a maximum of 15.
3/ Possibly simple health check questionnaire on arrival or the use a thermal temperature check gun on arrival (thermal temperature check gun will be used). Anyone with a higher than normal temperature will be turned away and advised to get themselves checked ASAP, this will be noted and recorded.
3/ Register of those attending, including parents, with clear and up to date contact details (should there be an issue, contact and trace will be required….similar to pub arrangements).
4/ Everyone should arrived changed but ideally with jacket or similar over the top. At present the karate suit will be optional.
5/ Training in clean sports shoes…. no bare feet, until we are advised we can do so.
6/ Karate suit or training clothes to be cleaned between sessions is a must and should be adhered to anyway.
7/ Marked individual training spaces, this will be a challenge younger members, however they are aware of social distancing measures so shouldn’t be an issue.
8/ All those entering and leaving to use sterile cleaning gel. This was something I had just started to introduce prior to lockdown and was handing out individual packs to everyone.
9/ No sharing of equipment
10/ Cleaning of any areas between classes.
11/ No shouting. Shouting risks projecting droplets over a wider space. Face masks might need to worn.
12/ Correct ventilation… open all windows and doors where possible and as appropriate.
13/ No contact or close quarters training at this time until authorised.
14/ All those attending to maintain social distancing.
15/ Ensure handles, doors and anything that anyone has come into contact with is wiped down and sanitised when leaving the premises. So additional combinations, Katas and Hokei Kumites etc (not partner assisted).
16/ All students must have up to date SSU karate licence, if expired it must be renewed otherwise you will be unable to attend the classes.
17/ A revised Grading Syllabus has been put in place for all students to replace the sections where partners are required.

Hope to see you all back soon in the meantime keep safe and well.

May 21st 2020

Ilkley Karate Club presents…

March 19th 2020

Following the latest guidance I have taken the decision to suspend the karate classes from now on also it’s likely the Church Hall will also close its doors too. Currently I cannot say when the classes will resume again in this present climate but will keep you up to date via the various communication channels.

Please check the club website or club Facebook or Instagram pages for further updates. At this time please do follow advice as far as possible and look after yourselves and family members. Keep practising your katas and improving your kihon (basics).

All the best, Sensei.

March 9th 2020

Ilkley Karate Club, now celebrating their 31st year and one of longest running clubs in the Wharfedale area have welcomed a total of 9 new black belts during 2019 to their ever-increasing black-belt group.

One of the oldest karate members Ravi Thirunavukkarasu also set a new record, not only with the Ilkley club but also Shito Ryu Shukokai Union, by passing his black belt a month prior to his 75th birthday – which is a remarkable achievement nationally.

In May club members Tony Wright and Ravi passed their black belts with flying colours. Tony gained the highest pass for adults while Ravi was made the record for the oldest student to attain his well deserved black belt.

In December seven students also achieved their long term goal by gaining their black belts. Emily Wormald (12), Sophia Leach (14) and adults Sharon MacIntyre, Simon Lund, Kevin Renshaw and Ian Richards passed the grade of first degree black belt while 17 year old Louis Fielding gained the higher level of second degree black belt.
They all now join the elite ranks within the Shito-Ryu Shukokai Union (SSKU).
The Ilkley students all achieved their long-term ambition after successfully completing six hours of mental and physical endurance.

The national black-belt gradings are held in Manchester, and students from all the clubs in the association are graded by four of the highly distinguished England Karate chief instructors graded by the Japanese hierarchy.

Ilkley Karate Club instructor Mark Outterside said: “You really need to prove yourself both technically and physically these days, and if you do pass the grade of black belt, especially in our style of karate, you feel you have earned it.

The Ilkley club has worldwide connections and in March six of the Ilkley members will be heading to Japan for the forth time to train, grade and compete for two weeks which is a rare opportunity for any karate group in the UK.

Sensei Mark outterside

Mark Outterside is the founder and
current Chief Instructor at Ilkley Karate Club.

Mark has been practising karate for over 40 years and is now a 5th degree black belt with the Shito-Ryu Shukokai Karate Union (SSKU). Mark spent most of his training life with the Shukokai Karate Union (SKU), leaving only in 2010 to gain more knowledge of the pure Shukokai/Shito-Ryu system with traditional roots.

Mark began the sport when he was 15 years old, as he wanted to try something that was different to the sports being offered at school, that would increase his overall fitness, and above all build his self-confidence. From the very beginning it kindled an inner-passion and ever since the early days, Mark has trained at least 3 or 4 times a week, regularly entering competitions and courses. Once Mark passed his 1st degree black belt in 1985, he began training with the SKU England Squad. In 1987 all the hard work really paid off and Mark won the first EKB (English Karate Board, now the EKGB) super lightweight title in London in September 1987.

In 1988 Mark opened the Ilkley Karate club, which had been a long held ambition of his. Having lived in Ilkley all his life he wanted to give something back to the community. It was slow going at first but picked up when the Telegraph and Argus decided to publish a full-page spread on karate in general, with a special feature on the embryonic Ilkley Karate Club. Interest in the sport was relatively high at the time due to a particular popularity of the new breed of Martial Art films of the day! And club membership soon flourished. Over the years the club has maintained an average membership of over 100 students with ages ranging from 5 to 65 years old. In 2009 Mark attained his 6th Dan black belt with the SKU – and became one of the youngest 6th Dan’s in the UK following the strict time limitations for traditional Karate requiring 6 years since attaining 5th Dan. To cap it all his many years of service to the youth of the Ilkley area were recognised by the Ilkley Rotary Club who presented him a community award for outstanding service

The club’s achievements are regularly featured in the local press and the club and its students have also been featured in the “Traditional Karate” magazine which has worldwide circulation. Ilkley Karate Club is now the longest running martial arts club in the Ilkley area and attracts students from all over West and North Yorkshire.

Mark has always maintained that one of the most pleasing aspects of karate is seeing the students young and old develop and reach their goals. Karate is a great confidence builder and students learn respect which sadly in this day and age is something we are increasingly lacking.

The club represents a huge commitment in his life, but always a welcome one.

 

Classes

Weekly Schedule - Training Times

Click the appropriate day to view classes and times…

Lessons are run on a regular basis, virtually on every week except Christmas, Easter and a short break in the summer.

6:15pm – 7:15pm

6:15pm – 7:15pm

6:45pm – 7:45pm

10:00am – 11:00am

11:00am – 12:00pm

7:30pm – 9:00pm

7:30pm – 9:00pm

6:45pm – 7:45pm

10:00am – 11:00am

11:00am – 12:00pm

Fees and Other Costs

It is firmly believed that everyone should have an opportunity to train so I try to keep prices as low as possible. The fees below show a graded structure, depending how many direct family members train and how often.  Please compare these fees to other local Martial Arts clubs or even Gym membership and you’ll see they are substantially better value.

There are three fees you need to be initially aware of

  1. your joining fees
  2. your SSKU license fee (payable to the SSKU)
  3. your regular monthly training fees

Beyond that any expenses for training kit, courses etc are purely optional. All three fees are detailed below…. 

After your initial THREE FREE lessons you must decide whether to join to club formally. The initial one-off membership fees are:

 

 What it includes Cost 

Basic Membership

Annual membership, SSKU badge and syllabus book £30
Family Basic Membership

Annual membership, SSKU badges and syllabus book for 2 or more people

 £40
Children’s Membership

Medium weight karate gi and everything else from the Basic Membership

 £30
Adult Membership

Medium weight Karate gi and everything else from the Basic Membership

£35
Family Membership (2)

Medium weight Karate suit and everything else from the Basic Membership for TWO people

£45
Family Membership (3)

Medium weight Karate suit and everything else from the Basic Membership for THREE people

£60

Once you formally join, it is necessary for you to always have a valid SSKU license to train, as this includes your personal insurance.

Your regular monthly training fee depends on how many people in your family, and how often you train. Family discounts are availabe on request, speak to Mark for more info.

 

Number of lessons in your household per month

ExamplesMonthly Training Fee
 4 or fewer 1 person once a week £24
 Between 5-8

1 person twice a week OR 2 people once a week

 £38
 Between 9-12 3 people once a week £38
Between 13-20

2 people twice a week OR 1 person three times a week

£45
Between 21 and 363 people three times a week£55
More than 36 (!) 

POA

FAQs

Frequently asked Questions

Click the appropriate question below to view answers to some of our most common enquiries…

Legend has it, the evolution of Karate began over a thousand years ago, possibly as early as the fifth century B.C., when a Buddhist monk by the name of Bodhidharma arrived at the Shaolin temple in China, from India, where he taught Zen Buddhism. He also introduced a set of exercises designed to strengthen the mind and body, exercises that allegedly marked the beginning of the Shaolin style of temple boxing. Bodhidharma’s teachings later became the basis for the majority of Chinese martial arts. Little was known about the early development of Karate until it appeared in Okinawa.

Okinawa is a small island of the group that comprises modern day Japan. It is the main island in the chain of Ryuku Islands, which spans from Japan to Taiwan. Being at the cross road of major trading routes, its significance as a ‘resting spot’ was first discovered by the Japanese. It later developed as a trade centre for south East Asia, trading with Japan and China amongst others.

In it’s early stages, the martial art known as “KARATE” was an indigenous form of closed fist fighting which was developed in Okinawa called “Te”, or “hand”. Further refinement came with the influence of other martial arts brought by nobles and trade merchants to the island. Te continued to develop over the years, primarily in three Okinawan cities: Shuri, Naha and Tomari. Each of these towns was a centre to a different section of society: kings and nobles, merchants and business people, and farmers and anglers, respectively. For this reason, different forms developed within each city and subsequently became known as: Shuri-te, Naha-te and Tomari-te, collectively they were called “To-de” “Chinese Hand”. Gradually, two main groups were formed: Shorin-Ryu, which developed around Shuri and Tomari and Shorei-Ryu from the Naha area.

The Chinese character used to write To-de could also be pronounced ‘Kara’ thus Te with Kara-te Jutsu or ‘Chinese hand art’ by the Okinwan masters. This was later changed to Karate-do by the Japanese who adopted an alternative meaning for the Chinese character. From this point on the term, Karate came to mean ‘Empty Hand’. The ‘Do’ in Karate-Do means ‘way’ or ‘path’, and is indicative of the discipline and philosophy of Karate with its moral and spiritual connotations.

The first public demonstration of Karate in Japan was in 1917 by Gichin Funakoshi, who was also instrumental in changing the name to KARATE-DO.

Today there are four main styles of Karate-Do in Japan:

Shito-Ryu founded by Kenwa Mabuni (1889-1952)
Goju-Ryu founded by Chojun Miyagi (1888-1953)
Shoto-Kan founded by Gichin Funakoshi (1868-1957)
Wado-Ryu founded by Hironori Otsuka (1892-1982)

The art of karate develops and enhances physical abilities that would take a multitude of sports to develop. Students improve balance, coordination, muscle tone, cardio-vascular conditioning, timing, rhythm, hand-eye coordination, hand-foot coordination and flexibility…. All that, and self defence as well. You won’t learn most of this lifting weight or running on a treadmill at a gym!

It is a striking art using punching, kicking, knee and elbow strikes, and open-handed techniques such as knife-hands. Grappling, locks, restraints, throws, and vital point strikes are taught in some styles. A karate practitioner is called a karateka. It wasn’t until 1922 when the Japanese Ministry of Education invited Gichin Funakoshi to Tokyo to give a karate demonstration. In 1924 Keio University established the first university karate club in Japan and by 1932, major Japanese universities had karate clubs. In this era of escalating Japanese militarism, the name was changed from 唐手 (“Chinese hand”) to 空手 (“empty hand”) – both of which are roughly pronounced “karate” – to indicate that the Japanese wished to develop the combat form in Japanese style. After the Second World War, Okinawa became an important United States military site and karate became popular among servicemen stationed there – these same servicemen led the widespread globalisation of the discipline and sport.

The martial arts movies of the 1960s and 1970s served to greatly increase its popularity and the word karate began to be used in a generic way to refer to all striking-based Oriental martial arts. Karate schools began appearing across the world, catering to those with casual interest as well as those seeking a deeper study of the art.

Shukokai is a style of karate based upon Shito-ryu, one of the original forms of karate with roots the date back over three hundred years to Okinawa. Shukokai inherits the characteristics of both the Naha-te and Shuri-te styles of Okinawan Karate. Kenwa Mabuni merged the techniques and principles of the styles he learned from his teachers Kanryu Higaonna, and Anko Itosu to form his Shito-Ryu style of Karate and officially founded in 1931 by Kenwa Mabuni. Soke Chojiro Tani (1921-1998) took the Shito-ryu form and enhanced it over many years, finally forming what we now know as Shukokai in his first dojo in Kobe, Japan in 1946.

As such, Shukokai combines the circular breathing techniques from Naha-te and the quick linear movements of the Shuri-te styles. This is apparent in the katas performed within Shukokai. Katas like Sanchin, Tensho, and Suparunpei are handed down from the Naha-te traditions, while katas like Annanko, Matsukaze, and Bassai-Dai are handed down from the Shuri-te traditions. Upon close examination, one can see the similarities between Tensho, Sanchin, and Suparunpei, and the similarities between Bassai-Dai, Annanko, and Matsukaze, and what makes the Naha-te katas different from the Shuri-te katas.

Also notable is the relatively high number of katas within Shukokai. This is a direct result of Master Mabuni’s experience with both the Naha-te and Shuri -te styles, and the reason why he was renowned throughout Japan as the foremost expert on kata. Another attribute that distinguishes Shukokai Karate from other styles is the execution of techniques.

While Shukokai shares many of the same punches, kicks, and blocks found in other popular styles of Karate, it is in how these are executed that sets Shukokai apart. Sensei Tani made the greatest contributions to the style by continually refining each technique to the highest degree, essentially re-defining the basics that had been practiced for centuries. He made the study of body mechanics his primary focus with the end result being the delivery of the greatest impact with the least amount of effort. Shukokai was designed around the study of body mechanics, and is famed for its ‘double hip twist’ to maximise the force of its strikes. Due to this, Shukokai is known as one of the hardest-hitting Karate styles. Tani redesigned the Shito-ryu kicking and punching methods to maximise the benefit from plyometric (elastic property) contraction of the muscles. The style is very fast using a relatively high stance to aid mobility. Another defining characteristic is that each technique must be combat effective.

Sensei Tani believed that a technique, no matter how powerful, was useless if it could not be delivered under combat situations. His philosophy was that the outcome of a confrontation should be decided in a single technique, “one hit one kill”, as per the way of the samurais of old.

After the death of Tani Sensei, his son Mr. Hiroshi Tani, and many Senseis and instructors from other countries announced themselves as top of their respective Shukokai groups.

Over the years there have been many different meaning for the name Shukokai. Depending on the context each symbol that goes to form the name, has a slightly different meaning. In a martial arts contact the most appropriate meaning is
SHU – The study of martial arts
KO – People with a common cause, coming together
KAI – Association
Essentially Shukokai means “an association where people come together to study Martial Arts”

Generally, a student taking up karate can start from the age of six years and upwards. Younger children will find the technical aspects of karate extremely difficult to cope with. A child of four or five does not normally have the required concentration to last an hour’s class. (Be wary of clubs that teach four years of age up and upwards – money is generally the only motive)!

Generally, karate is suited to men and women of all ages and physique. We would recommend however, that a person over the age of sixty years have a general health check by their doctor before enrolling on a course. Fitness is not an issue – this is normally gained through training and patience is the key! Anyone with particular health concerns should consult the instructors about their approach to training

It aims to develop character, humility, confidence, self-esteem, self control, determination and patience. No other physical discipline offers so much.

Complete beginners who have little knowledge of Karate can naturally be apprehensive about taking the first step and going to their first lesson. Everyone in the class has been through this experience and knows what it feels like – so expect to feel welcomed – every student will try their best to help you feel at ease.

It is understandable that you might not be sure about this step, so uniquely the first THREE lessons are FREE to a new student which ensures you get a full insight into what to expect at future lessons and can make up your mind as to whether Karate at Ilkley Karate Club is for you.

You will need to wear loose fitting clothes like tracksuit bottoms and a t-shirt. Once you have taken a few lessons you will need to formally join, by filling in the application form and paying the membership fee. Your first karate uniform, known as a Gi, is included with the membership fee. Once you have joined, all your uniforms and equipment can be purchased from this site – virtually always for cheaper than you’ll be able to source yourself.

Of course the sport is very physical, but injuries are rare due to the controlled way in which it is practised. There is always a trained first aider present during all training sessions and competitions – just in case

SSKU instructors must have a thorough knowledge of not only teaching Karate techniques but have training in emergency first aid procedures and are CRB vetted.

The first karate suit is included with the membership fee, then the only fees are for your SSKU karate license and the lessons – unlike some Martial Arts clubs, Ilkley Karate Club never has been and never will be part of any Networking Group or Pyramid Scheme. We try to keep all the prices as reasonable as possible and do not charge any annual fees or have contracts drawn up for a minimum commitment – there are no hidden extras.

You can pay for each month in advance with cash or cheque directly to the instructor, but the easiest and most common method is to setup a monthly standing order directly into the club’s account, which you can cancel at any time

The physical training required to reach a high level of skill in Karate promotes overall good health, fitness and well-being. The concentration, commitment and dedication required, help build a strong, confident and determined character. There is a ‘Dojo Kun’, or training code, which not only ensures a disciplined training environment, but serves as a tool for improving behaviour, so that a true Karate-ka will only use their fighting skills as a last resort.

As often or as little as you want! Naturally the more you put in the more you get out, and practise does make perfect – but it is fully understood that we all have busy life schedules that can make it difficult. You will make progress as long as you can commit yourself to at least a couple of lessons a month, but should aim for one a week.

You will get your first belt (white) when you formally join the club and receive your first Gi. Naturally everyone progresses at different rates, but typically after about 2-3 months of training you will be ready to take your first Grading to Red belt.

Karate coloured belts were first copied by Sensei Gichin Funakoshi from a similar mechanism in Judo. A typical urban myth is that your belt gets darker the hard you work and hence the progression from white to black. There is no evidence this was ever the case.

Shukokai Karate adopts a 10 grade (known as Kyu) belt system before reaching black belt.
• White – 9th Kyu
• Yellow – 8th Kyu
• Orange – 7th Kyu
• Green – 6th Kyu
• Blue – 5th Kyu
• Purple – 4th Kyu
• Brown – 3rd, 2nd and 1st Kyu
• Black – Dan

For every student that trains the answer to this question is always different. On average a student can, by passing every grading, and by training regularly, attain black belt in four years. However, it is more likely to attain this high level within five years.

Many people place a lot of emphasis on “getting to black belt” but it is not as important as developing a strong character and a good, strong physical condition. A black belt is representative of the skills learnt over years of practice and to the strength of character a student has developed in this time. Virtually all people who have achieved a dan grade will tell you that it categorically is a journey not a race and that you start learning all over again when you reached 1st Dan!

Karate is an exciting and challenging sport. Club members are actively encouraged to compete if they wish to do so. We participate in many competitions throughout the year at various levels. There are club and Regional events for all ages and grades, with opportunities for selection to the Welsh Squads. There are separate championships for children and students in full-time education at Colleges & Universities.

Every three months of training a student at Ilkley Karate Club can, if they wish, attempt their next level of grade (up to brown belts). In the grading they will have to demonstrate their technical skills and ability to use those skills against an opponent. ‘Gradings’ are useful to guide a student up through various stages towards black belt and beyond and are useful for students who like to set “goals” with which to advance further. There are nine grades to attain before black belt (see What is the significance of the coloured belts?)

No student is ever pushed into taking a grading and only if a student is ready is a grading assessment considered.

Please bring SSKU Karate Licence (or receipt if not received in time) and grading fee otherwise you will not be able to grade.

There is a small additional charge for each grading – circa £15-20

  • Clean white Karate suit (Gi) must be worn; not more than one badge may be worn on the front of the jacket and no markings of any kind on the back of the jacket or trousers.
  • No watches, rings, earrings, chains, necklaces, bracelets may be worn.
  • Fingers and toe nails must be kept short and clean at all times; hands and feet must always be kept clean.
  • Before entering and leaving the Dojo (training hall), bow from the waist.
  • Address any teaching instructor as “Sensei” whilst in the Dojo and any senior grade as “Sempai”.
  • “Oss” is a sign of respect and is used generally in karate, especially in the following situations:
    • upon receiving any advice or command from the instructor
    • when bowing at the start and finish of class
    • when bowing to your partner in kumite (sparring)
  • The KARATE-KA must always respect an opponent, never losing his temper no matter how an opponent may have behaved; Karate-Ka of inferior grade to oneself must be treated with consideration.
  • Turn off mobile phones and pagers whilst in the Dojo
  • Visitors are always welcome, subject to their observing the above rules, where applicable.

1/ How did you find out about the club?

Were you approached by someone (canvasser, school visit) or did you see an advertisement in the local paper or leaflet through the post?  Most reputable clubs will either put an ad in the paper or a leaflet through the post, but nothing that involves high pressure.

2/ Is the club/organisation reputable?

How much do you know about the club and its Instructors?  There are many martial art instructors in the UK (even locally), who are not what they claim to be: they may wear black belts or a black belt with a white stripe through it, but they may not be qualified at all. These so called instructors might only be the equivalent of yellow, orange, green or blue belts and have a limited amount of experience if any at all.

Also check if the Instructor has been awarded belts instead of passing them, this is usually the case if an Instructor has set up his own style.

3/ Are the Instructors bona fide?

All reputable Karate Instructors throughout the UK should be registered with a recognised Governing Body via there Association e.g. Karate England is the only Governing Body for Karate that is recognised by the Sport England (formerly the Sports Council).

4/ Why do you need to belong to a Governing Body?

A Governing Body is required to oversee that all martial art Instructors are fully qualified and insured. You can check all other governing bodies for all sports via www.sportengland.org e.g. the Governing Body for Tae Kwon Do is The British Tae Kwon Do Council. If they club isn’t afflicted to the respective Governing Body then you should ask why as it could have much wider implications.

5/ Is the Association a non-profit organisation?

Unfortunately a majority are NOT. The Shito-Ryu Shukokai Karate Union which the Ilkley club is part of is one of a select few that are.

6/ Does the Instructor hold a First Aid qualification?

If not, why not? All bona fide Instructors MUST hold the basic first aid qualification and have the usual refresher courses.

7/ Is the Instructor or Instructors insured?

All Instructors/coaches must hold the current Professional Indemnity Insurance as well a personal indemnity insurance, which must be produced on request and is usually displayed with all of the above on a notice board. If an Instructor does not have the above insurance then you could be putting either yourself or your child at risk.

8/ Has the Secretary of the Hall or Centre done the relevant checks? Most places have a martial arts policy i.e. they assess all of the above factors before allowing a martial arts club to use the premises.

9/ Do you feel you are paying a lot of money?

If you feel you are paying a lot for fees and equipment then shop round as the club could be linked to a marketing company and you could be paying large sums of money for very little in return.

10/ Have you shopped around? Check out other clubs in the area and compare?

11/ Does the Instructor grade the students or are they graded by a high-ranking karate instructor with plenty of experience?

12/ Are my grades including black belt recognised at National level?

Before taking up any martial art you should check this out if the black belt is your main goal. You could end up with belts that aren’t recognised beyond club level including black belts. This in turn would make the belts taken worthless and a waste of time.

13/ Does the club compete or allow its students to compete?

Most martial arts clubs offer the option to compete, however if they don’t they could have something to hide.

14/ If you like to compete could you be selected for the National Team?

If the club were a one-man band outfit or a style that has been made up then this would be very unlikely. If a student has potential then they should be given every opportunity to progress to National and International level.

15/ How long has the Karate Instructor been doing karate?

Most instructors usually have over 10 years experience. Ask to see their karate licence which will confirm the length of time. All Instructors and students should hold an up to date karate licence to prove their grade, this also covers their own personal insurance.

16/ Is the club well established or has it just started up?

Make sure you ask all the right questions, as there are unfortunately many Martial Arts Instructors in the UK who are NOT what they claim to be.

Contact

Find us...

All lessons are run from Ben Rhydding Methodist Church Hall which can be found at:

If you are interested in receiving any more information please email by clicking, or calling Mark on the number below...

(+44) 07590 424980

History

A brief history of Karate...

Karate-do (The way of the empty hand)

Legend has it, the evolution of Karate began over a thousand years ago, possibly as early as the fifth century B.C., when a Buddhist monk by the name of Bodhidharma arrived at the Shaolin temple in China, from India, where he taught Zen Buddhism. He also introduced a set of exercises designed to strengthen the mind and body, exercises that allegedly marked the beginning of the Shaolin style of temple boxing. Bodhidharma's teachings later became the basis for the majority of Chinese martial arts. Little was known about the early development of Karate until it appeared in Okinawa.

Okinawa is a small island of the group that comprises modern day Japan. It is the main island in the chain of Ryuku Islands, which spans from Japan to Taiwan. Being at the cross road of major trading routes, its significance as a 'resting spot' was first discovered by the Japanese. It later developed as a trade centre for south East Asia, trading with Japan and China amongst others.

In it's early stages, the martial art known as "KARATE" was an indigenous form of closed fist fighting which was developed in Okinawa called "Te", or "hand". Further refinement came with the influence of other martial arts brought by nobles and trade merchants to the island. Te continued to develop over the years, primarily in three Okinawan cities: Shuri, Naha and Tomari. Each of these towns was a centre to a different section of society: kings and nobles, merchants and business people, and farmers and anglers, respectively.
For this reason, different forms developed within each city and subsequently became known as: Shuri-te, Naha-te and Tomari-te, collectively they were called "To-de" "Chinese Hand". Gradually, two main groups were formed: Shorin-Ryu, which developed around Shuri and Tomari and Shorei-Ryu from the Naha area.

The Chinese character used to write To-de could also be pronounced 'Kara' thus Te with Kara-te Jutsu or 'Chinese hand art' by the Okinwan masters. This was later changed to Karate-do by the Japanese who adopted an alternative meaning for the Chinese character. From this point on the term, Karate came to mean 'Empty Hand'. The 'Do' in Karate-Do means 'way' or 'path', and is indicative of the discipline and philosophy of Karate with its moral and spiritual connotations.

The first public demonstration of Karate in Japan was in 1917 by Gichin Funakoshi, who was also instrumental in changing the name to KARATE-DO.

Today there are four main styles of Karate-Do in Japan:

Shito-Ryu founded by Kenwa Mabuni (1889-1952)
Goju-Ryu founded by Chojun Miyagi (1888-1953)
Shoto-Kan founded by Gichin Funakoshi (1868-1957)
Wado-Ryu founded by Hironori Otsuka (1892-1982)

Shito-Ryu Karate-Do

Shito-Ryu Karate, was founded by Kenwa Mabuni Sensei (1889-1952)

When he was 13 years old, Kenwa Mabuni Sensei began his training in Shorin Ryuwith Anko Itosu Sensei, a noted Karate master, in the Shuri area of Okinawa. Itosu Sensei was not only highly skilled in Budo but also a great innovator in teaching the martial arts. Around 1905, Itosu Sensei introduced Karate into the Okinawan public school system. Among other accomplishments, Itosu Sensei created the Pinan Kata, which are still practised today as introductory or intermediate forms in many schools. Itosu Sensei had an important effect on Karate in the 20th Century. Evidence of this can be found in the number of Karate styles that trace their lineage back to him.

In about 1909, through an introduction by his friend Chojun Miyagi Sensei (Founder of Goju-Ryu) Mabuni Sensei started to train with Kanryo Higaonna, in Shorei Ryu. Higaonna Sensei was a great expert from the Naha region of Okinawa.

In 1915, both Itosu Sensei and Higaonna Sensei passed away within a short time of each other. Mabuni Sensei continued his training. Ultimately, he and Miagi Sensei joined with other students of Karate to start a research group aimed at practising and spreading Karate.

In 1929, Mabuni Sensei moved his entire family to Osaka. There he established a small dojo and began teaching his unique art, which was an eclectic mix of Shorin Ryu (Itosu) and Shorei Ryu (Higaonna),with some Kata from the White Crane that were taught to him by the legendary Go Kenki, a Chinese tea merchant who would visit Okinawa on business.

Mabuni Sensei ultimately decided to name his art 'SHI TO' which was formed by taking the first two characters (kanji) from the names of his two primary teachers, Itosu and Higaonna. Thus, the name Shito Ryu has no literal meaning but rather honours the two main teachers in Mabuni Sensei's life.

Mabuni Sensei worked tirelessly to teach Karate throughout Japan, and the impact that he had on the development of Japanese Karate was tremendous. Many groups trace an element of their lineage back to him. Kenwa Mabuni died on 23rd May 1952.

We follow the Shukokai style of karate which in its most basic translation means: “An association where people come together to study the martial arts”. This is core to the focus of the club which encourages mutual respect and coming together to learn.

Shukokai Karate-do

The Shukokai school of Karate was founded by Soke Chojiro Tani (1921-1998).

Tani Sensei began his study of Karate at junior high school, in the Go-Ju school of Karate. He then entered Doshisha University Kyoto and continued to study Go-Ju under the great Karate master and founder of Go-Ju Chojun Miyagi. After some years, Miyagi returned to Okinawa and asked his good friend Kenwa Mabuni to take over the university class where he continued to teach Go-ju ryu (Shorei-Ryu) as taught to him by Higaonna Sensei. After Tani Sensei graduated from university, he continued to train under Mabuni Sensei in the Shorin Ryu and the Shorei Ryu system and ultimately Shito-Ryu. After the war, Tani Sensei started to teach Karate in an open-air car park in the centre of Kobe.

His group (Shukokai) soon grew and one year later, he built his own Dojo attached to his house. In 1946, Tani Sensei was presented with the scroll of succession from Master Mabuni and was given permission to start up his own sect, Tani-Ha Shito-Ryu.

Master Tani passed away on Sunday 11th January 1998. He was succeeded by one of his most senior students, Haruyoshi Yamada 9th Dan Hanshi.

Shito-Ryu Shukokai Union

On the 11th January 1998, Shukokai lost its great master and leader Soke Chojiro Tani. This was a time of great sorrow for the students of this innovative Karate Master, the first man to harmonise martial arts and technology. Steps were immediately taken to continue the dreams and philosophy of Tani Sensei.

Tani's own students became councillors and met for a conference to make an agenda for the future of Shukokai. In attendance were nine Sensei of Hanshi rank (awarded by Tani Sensei) and thirty-two members of Officer Rank.

On the 28th June 1998, the Shukokai general conference was held. At the conference, the Shito-Ryu Shukokai Karate-Do Union was unanimously voted as the proper successor to the original Shukokai organised by Tani Sensei.

Hanshi Haruyoshi Yamada 9th Dan (8th Dan certification J.K.F.) was voted the new leader. Sensei Yamada is thoroughly knowledgeable with the constantly shifting world of Karate-Do. He was the sole teacher at Shukokai who facilitated traditional Karate-Do and who appealed to the rest of the Karate world.

Shito-Ryu Shukokai Karate-Do Union is now a worldwide organisation, and is one of the most dynamic and successful schools of karate.

Shito-Ryu Shukokai Karate-Do Union - UK

In the United Kingdom, many senior Instructors already studying the Shito-Ryu Shukokai system within different English associations expressed concern regarding the stagnation and deviation of kata and technique. In order to get back on track and continue to expand their knowledge, it was necessary to return to their roots.

"If you leave the main stream your river of knowledge will dry up"
(Sensei Denis Casey)

On the 6th December 1998, the inaugural meeting of the Shukokai Shito-Ryu Karate-Do Great Britain took place and the new association was formed under the leadership of Denis Casey Sensei 6th Dan. Links were made with Japan and in August 1999the chief instructor together with a group of senior instructors travelled to Japan to train under the chief instructor and president of the Shito-Ryu Shukokai Union, Haruyoshi Yamada Hanshi. After this enlightening experience, Yamada Sensei was invited to England to pass on some of his vast knowledge to the U.K. Karate-Ka.

It was at a meeting after the seminar that Yamada Sensei expressed his wish for Denis Casey to be his representative for the U.K., and for the Shukokai Shito-Ryu Karate-Do Great Britain to become members of the Shito-Ryu Shukokai Karate-Do Union. The name of the association was changed accordingly.

The association continues to grow and is now the largest Shito-Ryu/Shukokai group in the United Kingdom.