About Karate
Karate is a Japanese martial art mainly focusing on defensive distance fighting techniques including blocks and strikes. Shotokan is one of the predominant styles practiced around the world. Junzen Shotokan Karate literally translated means, absolute or pure Shotokan karate.
_edited.png)
We are affiliated with Thames Valley Shotokan Karate, teaching traditional karate to adults and children around Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Middlesex.
Why Karate?
Its a great way to keep physically healthy as you will train your all round fitness including core strength, cardiovascular fitness, stamina, coordination and flexibility.
This is a highly efficient and deadly martial art. If practiced regularly it can help to improve your chances of successful self defence.
At its core, traditional Japanese karate centres around principles of respect. Respect for your fellow students, the instructor, the dojo and this respect should also extend to what you encounter in your everyday life outside the dojo. It differs from other sports focused martial arts that may prioritise 'winning' and spectatorship before humility. The Budo (martial way) ideals of courtesy, harmony, self-perfection, perseverance, fortitude and spiritual growth form the basis for the moral and philosophical principles that defines it as an art of self-defence and way of life, rather than the learning of pure street fighting skills.
Our instructor
Terry Furuzawa is a 4th Dan black belt certified instructor of second generation Japanese heritage. Terry first pursued an interest in Shorin-ryu karate whilst at university before an academic move took him to Kyokushin karate. After an extended hiatus, his return to karate was with the local Shotokan club in Ashford where he has been training for the past 13 years. His other experience includes advanced level Goju-ryu, Japanese jujitsu and kobudo (weapons) training.
"I find Karate fantastically rewarding with the continual challenge to progress this practical life skill. The more effort you put in, the greater the benefit to your fitness, health and the enjoyment you get from training."
All instructors are DBS checked.
Our classes
​
We are a small family friendly club training adults ​and children from 8 years old. Parents can train along with their children and in fact such participation is great for their mutual progression and development.
Click here to see class location and schedule.

Lessons start with a thorough warm-up and stretching. Then there will be varying focus on the three aspects of karate. "Kihon" basics, the practice of techniques which form the foundations of karate. "Kata", a formal pre-determined sequence of techniques. "Kumite", sparring exercises.
How much does it cost?
​
We are a not for profit club and there is no monthly or termly prepayment requirement or direct debit arrangement necessary for training. Depending on your chosen method of payment and any applicable concessions, you will pay between £7.00 to £8.00 per attended class. See the Shop for further details and online purchase options.
In training with the club, if you wish to progress your ranking level you will need to apply for membership to TVSK. This entails a one-time fee of £44 which includes provision of a karate suit with patches and a white belt.
​
An annual fee of £18 is payable to TVSK that will arrange insurance cover together with a licence and grading book to register for grading examinations.