Karate - Do Shotokai (KDS) club

Karate – Do Shotokai (KDS) club, located in Cardiff, is a martial arts club dedicated to practising and teaching karate as taught by Master Mitsusuke Harada. The club is passionate about promoting the art of karate and providing a friendly and inclusive environment for members of all ages and skill levels.

The club's training times are held on Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Thursdays from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. However, it is important to note that the times and location may be subject to change due to limited availability at the sports centre. It is recommended to check with the club to confirm the training schedule.

Situated at the CMC Sports and Social Club, which is located at the University Hospital for Wales in The Heath, Cardiff, the club benefits from free parking facilities at the hospital. This location provides a convenient and accessible venue for members.

For inquiries or to join a practise, individuals can contact the club's Chief Instructor, Ian Mackenzie, either via email at mackenziei65@hotmail. Com or through their Facebook page. The club frequently posts news, photos, videos, and special offers on their social media platform. It is advised to inform the club in advance if planning to visit, allowing them to properly welcome newcomers.

Karate – Do Shotokai (KDS) club welcomes beginners and offers their first lesson completely free of charge. The club prides itself on having a friendly and informal practise environment. Many new members are either completely new to karate or have previous training in other styles.

During a practise session, participants are required to wear sports or loose clothing and bring a water bottle. Insurance for the practise is covered through a form that needs to be signed by the individual. After the practise, the Chief Instructor will email further instructions on how to join the club.

Typically, the 2-hour training session starts with a 20-minute warm-up, which consists of a mix of cardio and stretches. Participants are encouraged to go at their own pace, and flexibility or prior exercise experience is not a requirement. The session then proceeds with a variety of activities, including learning kata (forms), kumite (sparring), and practising techniques related to movement, defence, and attack.

The club does not separate beginners and advanced students in separate classes. Instead, the sessions are designed to cater to both new individuals and graded members. There are a total of 7 instructors available to guide and assist participants throughout the training. It is important to inform the instructors of any factors that may affect the warm-up or practise.

At the end of each session, members engage in a 5-minute stretching routine to relax the muscles used during the practise. The sports club offers shower facilities, lockers, and hairdryers in each set of changing rooms for the convenience of the members.

The cost of participation at Karate – Do Shotokai (KDS) club is 5 per session or 34 per month for 2 sessions per week. There is also an annual membership fee of 40. Concessions are available, with a reduced rate of 4 per session or 27 per month for 2 sessions per week. The club also offers various special offers, such as the Welcome Back offer for former members who have been out of training for at least 12 months, and the Junior member offer.

The club takes pride in the achievements of its members and features individuals who have reached significant milestones. One such example is Father and Son Peter and Geraint Payton, who were awarded their 1st Dan Black Belts in December 2023. Geraint shares his personal experience with autism and karate, highlighting how the club has helped him improve his confidence and overcome challenges.

Overall, Karate – Do Shotokai (KDS) club in Cardiff offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for individuals interested in practising and learning karate. With experienced instructors, flexible training sessions, and affordable membership options, the club provides a platform for personal growth and development through the practise of martial arts.