Welcome to the Williams Karate Academy

The club is a member of the Shito-Ryu Shukokai Union (SSU) and the England Karate Governing Body (EKGB)

You'll find lots of information about training in the Shito-Ryu Shukokai Style of Karate.
Click here to learn more about the history of this style

If you're new to karate and are interested in how to get started click here

Instructor

Sensei Barry Williams is a 5th dan black belt. He has been studying karate since 1979 and running Williams Karate Academy since 1995. Barry has won dozens of tournaments including 3 European championships, 5 English championships, 1 British championship and 2 Jersey Open championships. He also came 6th in the World championship. Telephone: 07866496697 email: sensei@williamskarate.co.uk

Getting started

Shukokai is translated from Japanese as way for all. This means that it is intended for all ages and all levels of ability from a 6 year old girl to a 60 year old man.

Before starting training it is recommended that you attend a class to see how it works and whether you are likely to enjoy it. Then the first training session is free. No special equipment is required to try karate. If you decide you want to continue then a Gi (pronounced ghee) can be purchased with a white belt. As your skills improve you will be graded and the colour of your belt will indicate your level of competence (black being the highest level) For more information on gradings click here.

The basic skills are taught to ensure correct technique of punching, kicking and blocking. The basic moves are combined in choreographed sequences called kata. Fighting techniques or kumite are also taught where speed and control rather than power are essential.

All students are encouraged to take part in competitions with other clubs and many students have gained success at regional and national competitions. For more details on club results click here.

Ethics and Code of behaviour

The art of Karate-do places great emphasis on the development of the character of its students and a code of behaviour is used together with the physical trainingso that technical skill, physical fitness and good behaviour become synonymous with Karate-do

The code is based on a mutual respect of teachers and students and acknowledges that respect must be shown for seniority. Karateka are expected to show the same respect for the society in which they live and for those who live in and administer that society.

Dojo Etiquette

• Always bow on erntering or leaving the dojo
• Junior grades should bow first to their seniors
• Instructors should be referred to as sensei and not by their name
• Nails must be kept clean and short enough to avoid scratching and cutting
• Jewellery or watches should not be worn
• Shoes must be removed on entering the dojo
• Long hair must be tied back
• Late arrivals should warm up outside the dojo. When they wish to join the class, enter the dojo quietly and stand at the back where they can be seen by the sensei. When the sensei gives the signal to join in they should bow deeply and walk quickly and quietly around the back of the class until itis convenient to go to a position appropriate for their grade.
• It is the responsibility of the individual to ensure their gi is kept clean and in good repair at all times.
• The Appropriate colour belt, including any necessary tabs, must be worn with the gi at all times
• All students, especially cadets, should have visited the toilet prior to the commencement of training