Our classes
Wednesdays
Junior Class
(5 – 9yrs)
17:30 – 18:30
A fun and welcoming introduction to karate for younger children, focusing on building confidence, coordination, and basic karate skills. Students are supported in developing at an age- and ability-appropriate pace, making this class ideal for both newcomers to karate and children with some prior experience.
Cadet Class (10-16yrs)
18:30 – 19:30
A supportive and engaging class designed for older juniors and teenagers. Training remains engaging and encouraging, with a greater focus on learning karate skills, developing technique, and building confidence in ways that suit older students. Suitable for complete beginners and those with more karate experience alike.
Adult Class (16yrs +)
19:30 20:30
Whether you’re completely new to karate or returning after a break, this class offers a welcoming and supportive way to get active, learn self-defence, and build confidence. Wednesday sessions focus more on technique, kihon, and kata, making this the ideal class to start your karate journey.
Sundays
Foundation Class
09:00 – 10:00
This class focuses on building confidence through movement, basic kumite skills, and training safely with others. It is ideal for beginners and early-grade students, giving them time to grow comfortable with karate while developing coordination, awareness, and enjoyment of training. A great class to begin your karate journey!
Advanced Class
(6th kyu +)
10:00 – 11:00
Designed for students who are confidently working towards yellow belt (6th kyu) level and above. Training allows students to explore higher-grade techniques and kumite skills while continuing to develop at their own pace. Placement is guided by the instructors to ensure the best learning experience for each student.
Adult Class (16yrs +)
11:00 – 12:00
Open to all adult grades, this session focuses on kumite and the practical application of karate skills. Training is more dynamic and movement-based, offering adults the opportunity to push themselves mentally and physically. Sunday training complements the more technical focus of the Wednesday adult classes.
Not sure which class is right for you?
Our Junior and Cadet classes are primarily organised by age, with individual experience, confidence, and readiness also taken into account.
For some students, particularly new starters or those moving between age groups or training stages, placement may be guided by the instructors to ensure the best fit and a positive training experience.
If you’re unsure which class would be most suitable, please get in touch. We’re always happy to help and will make sure each student can train comfortably, confidently, and at the right pace from their very first session.
UNLIMTED CLASSES FOR £39 A MONTH
FAMILY AND FRIENDS DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE!
Not ready to join in? You’re welcome to observe a class first. Please contact us to arrange this.
Our location: St Mary’s Mission Hall, Forge Lane, Ashford, TN23 1JW
The Three K’s of Karate
The “Three K’s” of karate: Kihon, Kata, and Kumite are the foundational pillars of Kyokushin karate. Each represents a critical aspect of training that works in harmony with the others to develop both the physical and mental qualities required to excel in this martial art. Together, they build a pathway for discipline, mastery, and the spirit of perseverance that define Kyokushin karate
Kihon
Kihon refers to the basic techniques of Kyokushin karate, such as punches, kicks, blocks, and stances. These fundamentals are practised repetitively to develop precision, power, and a deep understanding of form. Mastering Kihon is essential, as it lays the groundwork for more advanced techniques and ensures stability and strength in every movement.
Kata
Kata are choreographed sequences of movements that simulate combat against multiple opponents. They embody the philosophy and strategy of Kyokushin karate, combining balance, timing, and fluidity with focus and control. Kata practice strengthens the mind-body connection, sharpens technique, and cultivates the discipline and mindfulness essential for growth.
Kumite
Kumite refers to sparring, where students learn how to apply techniques from kihon and kata in a controlled, practical way. In Kyokushin karate, kumite can take different forms depending on age, experience and readiness. Our approach prioritises respect, control and safety. Students are encouraged to challenge themselves at a level that feels appropriate, building confidence, resilience and mutual respect.
Our approach to Kumite
Clicker (non-contact) kumite
Clicker sparring forms part of training across all ages and classes, including juniors and adults. It is used to develop timing, distancing, control and decision-making in a safe and accessible way, regardless of experience or competitive interest.
Protective equipment
Where kumite is practised, appropriate protective equipment is always used. This may include body protectors, shin and foot guards, gloves, mouthguards and helmets, depending on age, experience and activity.
Junior classes (ages 5–9)
Students practise non-contact clicker sparring only. There is no knockdown sparring in this age group.
Knockdown (full-contact) kumite
Knockdown kumite is never compulsory. No student is ever forced to take part in full-contact sparring.
• Students aged 10–13yrs train with full protective equipment,
including helmets and body protectors.
• For 14yrs and above, protective equipment is adjusted
appropriately in line with age, experience and training focus.
Helmets are always used for club kumite competitions and
gradings wherever possible.
Gradings and progression
From yellow belt onwards, some grading requirements include a light, controlled clicker element, designed to assess understanding and control rather than toughness.
Wednesdays:
17:30–18:30 – Junior Class
18:30–19:30 – Cadet Class
19:30–20:30 – Adult Class
Sundays:
10:00 – 11:00 – Junior/Cadet Class
11:00–12:00 – Adult Class
Kojin-Kai Karate Club
Ashford, Kent
Kojin-Kai Karate Club 