Northamptonshire Karate Club is a traditional Shotokan karate school located in Northampton, UK. As the first Shotokan karate club in Northamptonshire affiliated to the Japan Karate Association (JKA), they offer authentic and high-quality karate training.
The club prides itself on promoting commitment, dedication, and focus among its members. They believe in the power of karate training to improve not only physical but also mental and technical aspects of one's life. They emphasise lifelong improvement and encourage members to strive for their full potential in all areas.
The instructors at Northamptonshire Karate Club are highly qualified and experienced. Sensei David, the Chief Instructor, holds a 3rd Dan Shotokan and is a certified JKA international instructor, referee, and examiner. He is also a qualified PE teacher. Sensei Aysha, an Assistant Instructor, also holds a 3rd Dan Shotokan and specialises in teaching ladies.
She is also the club secretary and JKA regional representative.
By joining the Northamptonshire Karate Club, members have the opportunity to train with Sensei Ohta, the JKA England Chief Instructor, who is a world-renowned karate teacher. They can participate in regional, national, and international training courses conducted by Sensei Ohta and the JKA technical committee. All black belt gradings are examined by Sensei Ohta.
The club follows the JKA Shotokan Karate style, which places a strong emphasis on proper form and balance in each technique. The instructors have extensively analysed and refined each movement in the katas to make them more applicable in kumite. Through kihon (basic techniques), kata (forms), and kumite (sparring), members learn to control their movements and develop their body, mind, and spirit simultaneously.
The JKA Shotokan Karate philosophy is deeply rooted in Bushido, the way of the warrior. It emphasises the development of the whole person and teaches practitioners to control their movements and thoughts. Karate is not just a physical activity but a way of life. Through training, members learn to perform techniques without conscious thought and remain focused without distraction.
The foundation of karate lies in the kihon, kata, and kumite. These three elements are interconnected and must be studied as one. Kihon provides the basic techniques, kata represents the forms, and kumite incorporates sparring. Without a strong foundation in kihon, one cannot excel in kata or kumite.
The integration of these elements leads to agility and smoothness in karate.
Northamptonshire Karate Club is committed to preserving the authenticity and essence of traditional Japanese karate. They uphold the values of the Japan Karate Association and strive to honour the lineage while developing for the future. Whether you are an adult, child, or looking for ladies-only classes, Northamptonshire Karate Club welcomes individuals of all ages and abilities to join their community and embark on a fulfilling karate journey.