Located at 36 Wendron Street in Helston, the Helston Community Martial Arts Centre is a renowned centre of excellence that offers a variety of martial arts and fitness clubs. Established in 2016, it prides itself on being a hub for individuals interested in honing their skills and achieving their fitness goals.
The centre boasts Cornwall's only large Judo competitive training mat, making it an ideal destination for Judo enthusiasts. In addition to the state-of-the-art training facility, the centre provides convenient amenities such as changing rooms, showers, toilets, and a fully fitted kitchen. There is also a large seated area for parents and guests to comfortably watch the classes.
One of the main clubs at the Helston Community Martial Arts Centre is the Penrose Judo Club. Led by UK Commonwealth Judo champion Richard Hurst, this BJA registered judo club has been running for 15 years and is considered one of the leading Judo clubs in Cornwall. Seniors can attend Tuesday sessions from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm, while juniors have their classes on Fridays from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm. There is also a beginners class for seniors on Friday evenings.
Another prominent club is Pure Grappling, a Brazilian Jiujitsu team coached by black belt Kevin Derrington. These sessions are held in both Penzance and Helston and are affiliated with Flo Martial Arts in Plymouth. Classes are available on Tuesdays for seniors, with Gi sessions from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm and No Gi sessions from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm. There are also kids' sessions on Saturdays from 10:00 am to 11:00 am and an Open Mat on Sundays from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.
Helston Ju Jitsu, a traditional Japanese defensive martial art, is also offered at the centre. Run by Sensei Ricky Williams (5th dan) and Simon (2nd dan), it is recognised as a Cobra Martial Arts Association UK centre of excellence. Currently, they only have classes available for kids on Mondays at 6:00 pm.
Matt Fiddes Tae Kwon Do is another esteemed martial arts club present at the centre. With classes on Wednesdays catering to different age groups, including Mighty Matts for 3-6-year-olds from 5:00 pm to 5:30 pm and Juniors/family for 7+ years from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm, their teaching method combines various techniques from styles such as Karate, Kickboxing, Tae Kwon Do, Ju Jitsu, martial arts weapons, and Kung Fu.
Apart from martial arts clubs, the Helston Community Martial Arts Centre offers fitness classes such as kettlebells. Led by Will, these sessions are open to beginners and experienced users alike and cover a full programme from warm-up to set swings. Each session explores new techniques and set tests to help participants progress to the next weight. The Wednesday class, which runs from 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm, is known for its friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
For those interested in improving mind and body flexibility, Lizard Pilates provides mat classes in Mullion, Helston, and Mawnan Smith. Additionally, there is a seated/standing class in Mullion and online classes available on Mondays at 8:20 am and Thursdays at 5:15 pm. The Pilates classes aim to help individuals strengthen their core and increase flexibility.
With its diverse range of martial arts and fitness clubs, top-notch facilities, and experienced instructors, the Helston Community Martial Arts Centre is an ideal destination for individuals seeking to enhance their skills, improve their fitness levels, and become part of a dedicated and supportive community.