bristol karate academy
Bristol Karate Academy is formed by four separate clubs, coming together under
one banner to help people within the Bristol postcode area become outstanding at
Karate — whether they are interested in understanding the art or competing at
the highest level. Karate is a system of self defence originally developed and
refined in Okinawa and Japan. We teach the Shotokan style of Karate (the most
widely practiced in the world) and are affiliated to Japan Karate Shoto
Federation — an association regarded in high esteem across the globe. Our
instructors (or 'Senseis') have trained with some of the best practitioners in
the UK and world so that they can bring these teachings — together with their
own skills — directly to you. The training at Bristol Karate Academy promotes
good overall health, fitness and well-being for both adults and children. The
concentration, commitment and dedication required can help you or your child to
build a strong, confident and determined character. OUR HERITAGE Bristol Karate
Academy has had roots in the area for a long time. Three of its four core
instructors were born in Bristol and all have a passion for the area and for
making it a centre of excellence for Traditional Shotokan Karate. The oldest
dojo in the Academy opened its doors forty years ago in 1978, while the newest
dojo opens its doors in September 2018. The one thing they have in common is the
aim of bringing the highest standard of Traditional Japanese Karate to the
people of Bristol. OUR MOTTO Bristol Karate Academy takes its motto, "Virtute et
industria" — or by virtue and industry — from the city of Bristol, which dates
back to at least 1569. The motto reflects the values of the club and fit hand in
glove with the core values of traditional Karate-Do. The Japanese calligraphy
(kanji) in our logo and in brushwork on the right-hand side of this page show
this translated. The first two characters say Bitoku (virtue) and the next two
translate as Benrei (industry). Because each character can carry multiple
meanings, the characters for industry also represent diligent study, alertness,
encouragement and application of oneself. Perfect for the Academy. So what does
that mean for us? Virtue (美徳): We have integrity, in our commitment to
traditional, effective Karate and integrity in the way that we treat others. We
are respectful, fair and aim for high moral standards. We build character,
strive for excellence and show courage in the face of challenges. Industry (勉励):
We work hard to reach our goals. We're diligent and determined to get better at
every single training session. We are rigorous in our approach to improvement
and dedicated to our own and each other's development. Through hard, honest
training we become our best possible selves. OUR CLASSES We train five times a
week across our venues. For details of the training times available for each
venue, go to our venues page. Many of our classes are for mixed ages and
abilities, meaning they're perfect for both individuals and families alike.
While most of our classes are for anyone aged 7 upwards, for children aged 5-7
we hold separate 12 week introductory courses. Visit the Bushido Warriors page
to find out when the next course starts. Overall, the emphasis is on your own
personal development and helping you to reach your goals. When you start and at
regular intervals we'll ask you what you want to get out of your training at
Bristol Karate Academy: whether it's reaching your next belt, competing in a
tournament or simply keeping fit while learning a traditional martial art.
