West England Martial Arts

Roy Lewis, the organiser of West England Martial Arts, wants to share some insights about the club with the sports community.

West England Martial Arts has built a solid reputation for its specialist training in self-defence and street combat. Roy's focus has always been on ensuring students can effectively defend themselves in any situation. The training programme includes basics, kata, free fighting, pad work, strangles, locks, breaks, and takedowns. Fitness and strength are key components, preparing students physically for any potential confrontations.

The club's fighting systems are rooted in Wado-Ryu Karate and incorporate elements of boxing and kickboxing. This combination provides students with the necessary skills and confidence to handle violent situations.

West England Martial Arts has a storied history, dating back to its founding in 1977 by Sensei Roy Lewis and his close friend Stuart Pursey. Roy, a native of Bristol, began his martial arts journey in boxing, influenced by his father, a Royal Navy boxing team member during World War II. A tragic incident, where a sparring partner was fatally stabbed, led Roy to explore karate as a means of self-defence. He started his karate training in 1970 and joined Bristol Karate Club in 1972, studying under Senseis Dave Wheatley and Alan Flook.

In 1977, Roy and Stuart Pursey established North Bristol Karate Kai, now known as West England Martial Arts, at Eden Grove Church in Horfield. The club quickly gained a reputation for quality training and commitment to self-defence and street combat.

West England Martial Arts is a proud member of the British Combat Karate Association, ensuring its training programmes meet the highest standards in martial arts. With its long history and expertise, the club remains a trusted place for those seeking to learn martial arts and effectively defend themselves.