Joining is simple. Book your trial session through the club website, then come along and take part in your first class. After your trial session, you can sign up for membership and start attending weekly classes. New students are always welcome, and we’ll make sure your first session is friendly, supportive, and easy to follow. Simply book your trial session to get started!

Not at all. You don’t need to be fit or flexible to begin karate training – just in good general health. Our classes are designed to gradually build your fitness, flexibility and confidence over time. All we ask is that you try your best and enjoy the training.

Many students see improvements not only in their physical health, but also in behaviour, focus and self-esteem – especially children – thanks to our structured and disciplined approach.

Yes. Parents and children are welcome to train together in the same class. It’s a brilliant way to spend time together, stay active, and learn something new as a family. You’ll each be supported at your own level, so you can enjoy the class whether you’re a complete beginner or have trained before.

Class fees vary depending on the membership option that suits you best. After your trial session, we’ll explain the costs clearly and answer any questions, so you can decide whether you’d like to continue. There’s no pressure, and nothing to pay before your trial.

Your first class is a relaxed introduction to Shotokan karate. You do not need any previous experience, and there is no need to buy a karate suit before you start - just wear comfortable clothing you can move in.

When you arrive, one of our instructors will welcome you, explain how the class works, and help you join in at a pace that feels right for you. You will learn some basic movements, practise simple techniques, and get a feel for how our classes build confidence, fitness, focus and discipline.

Children, adults and families are all welcome. Parents can watch, and many choose to train alongside their children. After the session, we will answer any questions and explain the best class options for you or your family.

Karate training is divided into three main areas: kihon (basic techniques), kata (set forms), and kumite (sparring).

• Kihon focuses on developing fundamental movements such as blocks, strikes, punches, and kicks.
• Kata involves choreographed sequences that simulate combat situations, helping students improve accuracy, control, and mental focus.
• Kumite begins with simple partner drills and gradually progresses towards free sparring, developing timing, reactions, confidence, and self-defence skills.

Training is carefully structured to challenge students at every level, with techniques becoming more advanced as they progress.

How often you train depends on your goals. Generally, training twice a week will help you keep up with the rest of the class. Any less than that, and you may find it harder to progress at the same pace. If you’re keen to improve more quickly, training more than twice a week can make a real difference. Ultimately, the more you put into your karate journey, the more you’ll get out of it.

Yes. Our instructors are experienced, fully qualified, and passionate about helping students learn karate safely and confidently. They are accredited through Karate Scotland, the National Governing Body for karate in Scotland, and hold PVG scheme membership. We work hard to ensure every class is welcoming, supportive, and suitable for each student’s age, ability, and experience level.

Karate training offers many benefits, including improved fitness, confidence, discipline, and focus. It helps develop strength, flexibility, and coordination, while also supporting mental wellbeing and practical self-defence skills. Suitable for all ages, karate encourages personal development, respect, and a healthy lifestyle. Guided by the Dojo Kun, students learn self-control and responsibility, ensuring their skills are used appropriately and only in self-defence.

People take up Karate for many different reasons. For some, learning how to protect themselves and their loved ones is an important motivation. Karate can also help build self-confidence, which is especially valuable for children facing challenges such as bullying at school. Beyond self-defence, it promotes discipline, focus, fitness and wellbeing, making it beneficial for both body and mind.

Karate is a traditional Japanese martial art that teaches self-defence through striking techniques such as punches, kicks, knee strikes, and open-hand techniques. It also helps develop discipline, physical fitness, confidence, and mental focus. Practised both as a sport and a way of self-improvement, karate is suitable for people of all ages and abilities.