North East Wado Ryu Karate Club in North Shields is your go-to spot for martial arts, with over 40 years of history. It was started by Sensei Paul Hancock (6th Dan) and comes under Sensei Ray Coates' Inter National Karate Association. The club is open to everyone, from complete beginners to advanced Black Belts.
Sensei Paul Hancock and his team of senior instructors run the sessions with a strong emphasis on teamwork. Everyone is encouraged to help each other out, making it a welcoming environment no matter your skill level. Fitness levels don't matter to start, though some mobility is useful as you’ll be practising practical self-defence moves. No experience? No problem, just come ready to learn.
The style they practice is Wado-Ryu Karate, a combination of Jiu-jitsu and Shotokan, which started in Japan back in 1934. It's all about the "way of peace" and “way of harmony” with a focus on tai sabaki, which is about moving with the flow, not just dodging hits.
Training happens on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Mondays are at Whitley Bay High School, Wednesdays at St John’s Methodist Church, and Fridays at Cullercoats Community Centre.
If you're interested, give Sensei Paul Hancock a call at 0780 723 5838 before your first session. For more details, check out their website or ring Sensei Hancock directly.