Kyushindo Karate Highgate for self defence

Kyushindo Karate is taught at Kyushindo Highgate club by a team of fully qualified instructors. The Highgate club has been established for over 30 years and is the headquarters of the Kyushindo Martial Arts Association.

Kyushindo Karate is based on Japanese and Chinese martial art styles and relies on the use of movement, speed, accuracy and economy of movement. Students perform techniques which are from a set syllabus, with particular emphasis on self defence. Kyushindo is taught as a martial art, not for competition or for sport.

As Kyushindo relys on technique rather than strength, it is beneficial for men and women of all ages.

Kyushindo, in Japanese means:

	KYU: to seek, to search
	SHIN: the true and fundamental nature of
	DO: path.

In short, Kyushindo can be interpreted as 'the search for perfection'.

A very brief overview of some of the techniques that are practiced at Kyushindo Karate would include:

Blocking: Ideally, attacks should be avoided or deflected, though in reality situations arise when blocks need to be used. Various blocks are taught as a defence to different attacks.

Breakfalls: At Kyushindo Highgate club, lessons take place on padded mats and students are taught takedowns, breakfalls and rolls.

Footwork: As Kyushindo depends primarily on deflection and avoidance as oppossed to meeting force with force, footwork is of utmost importance.

Locks: Restraining and release techniques are taught to students.

Pads and bag work: Students undertake punch bag and pads training. This helps to develop range, focus, accuracy and power.

Sparring: Students are taught how to spar against one and multiple opponents.

Stances: Stances are taught for stationary techniques and for moving techniques ie when sparring or for performing katas. Good stances are crucial not only for attaining balance and power but they allow for easy mobility.

Striking: These include closed and open hand techniques, punches, chops and kicks, amongst many other techniques.

Throws: A number of throws and counter throws are taught to students.

Kyushindo Karate relys on relaxed and flowing movements as power is not derived from tension prior to a strike making impact, as this would restrict movement and speed.

We do not use exercises such as breaking bricks or boards as this can cause injury.

As students progress through the Kyushindo syllabus they undertake gradings and are awarded belts.

Children are not taught dangerous techniques or those that have a risk of causing injury if performed without control and co-ordination.

Lessons take place using mainly English terms, rather than Japanese.

Following introductory lessons, students are expected to purchase a karate suit – a 'gi' – which can be purchased at a reduced rate through the club, though initially they can wear loose fitting clothing such as a t-shirt and tracksuit bottoms.

Beginners of all ages are welcome at Kyushindo Karate Highgate Club. If you would like to attend classes, click here for timetable of lessons.