Barclay Academy Sports Hall
The Valley School
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Shotokan karate for adults aged 16+ — complete beginners welcome.
Looking for a new way to get active, challenge yourself and learn something genuinely rewarding? Our adult karate classes welcome complete beginners and experienced students alike. You do not need to be fit, flexible or have any martial arts experience before you start — we will help you develop at your own pace.
Tuesday: 7:00pm–8:30pm — Adult-only class
Monday: 6:30pm–7:30pm — Mixed-age session
Thursday: 6:30pm–7:30pm — Mixed-age session
Monday and Thursday are mixed-age sessions, with training adapted by age, grade and experience so adults still receive appropriate instruction.
Many adults worry that they need to already be fit or have martial arts experience before joining a karate club. You don’t. Our classes include students of different ages, fitness levels and experience. Training is progressive, and our instructors will help you learn the basics safely before building your confidence and technique.
Karate develops cardiovascular fitness, strength, balance, coordination and flexibility through varied training.
Training demands concentration, giving you time to focus completely on what you are doing and leave daily pressures outside the dojo.
Learning new techniques and progressing through grades gives you tangible goals and a genuine sense of achievement.
Develop traditional Shotokan karate techniques, movement, timing and controlled partner work.
Train alongside adults with different backgrounds and experience in a supportive, friendly club environment.
Adult sessions typically include a mixture of:
Beginners train alongside more experienced students but are given instruction appropriate to their level.
JKA England affiliated: Traditional Shotokan karate taught in line with JKA standards.
Experienced instructors: Senior instructors hold international JKA coaching qualifications.
Friendly and inclusive: Beginners are supported rather than expected to keep up immediately.
Individual progression: Students are coached according to their experience, ability and personal goals.
Starting something new can feel intimidating, so your first session is deliberately straightforward. Wear comfortable sports clothing, bring some water and arrive a few minutes early. You will not need a karate uniform for your first session, and there is no expectation that you will know any techniques beforehand.
One of our instructors will introduce you to the class and help you get started.
The best way to see whether karate is right for you is to experience a class for yourself.