ICHIGOKAI
West London Karate and Kobujutsu
Information for wider learning and guidance
Karate• Resources
The development of martial arts has been driven by great thinkers and philosophers who were not only physically skilled, but also recognised the importance of building an individual’s character, attitude, and emotional strength.
Part of this purpose is to stand up against injustice towards yourself or your community and, if absolutely necessary, to fight as a last resort. We are talking, after all, about martial arts. Equally important is being an active and contributing member of the society that has contributed to your development.
The increasing demands of training require us to consider our personal development. How do we practise, study, refine, and deepen our skills and understanding? What does high-quality practice look and feel like?
Martial Arts is for everybody.
The syllabus contains an introduction to our approach to training. The Dojo Kun, Niju Kun, and Dojo Etiquette introduce how we behave in the dojo and how Karate applies to our daily lives.
This is followed by the techniques and kata expected for each grade, along with performance expectations.
The Ichigokai Karate syllabus can be downloaded here.
Meaningful martial arts training requires thoughtful practice, consistent discipline, and intelligent study.
Of particular importance is understanding how martial arts practice integrates into daily life. Karate is not just for the dojo.
The masters who developed martial arts systems were also great thinkers. They shared their experience of how martial arts can contribute to daily living. This guidance ranges from reflecting on your own martial arts journey to understanding how to conduct yourself in the wider world.
One of the central codes of conduct we commit ourselves to is the Dojo Kun. In Shotokan Karate, this is repeated at both the beginning and end of class.
Easy to repeat, but difficult to fully understand its potential impact as a martial artist.
DOJO KUN
Seek Perfection of Character
To strive for the perfection
of character
Be Faithful
To protect/defend the paths of truth
Endeavor to excel
To foster the spirit
of effort
Respect others
To honor the principles
of etiquette
Refrain from violent behaviour
To guard against
impetuous courage
The Dojo Kun was developed by Gichin Funakoshi, who also developed the Niju Kun.
For Kobujutsu practitioners, we should also study the writings of the great swordsman Miyamoto Musashi and his Dokkodo
Main Training Contacts
We are fortunate to know skilled and inspiring individuals and organisations we learn from and train alongside.
The Ryukyu Kobujutsu Association of Great Britain (RKAGB) is our source of weapons training. Sensei Julian Mead, the Chief Instructor, provides us with exceptionally high quality opportunities to develop our practice. There are weekly opportunities to train at the Honbu Dojo in Coulsdon. Regular national and international courses also help deepen learning. Whatever your martial arts background, get in touch. You will absolutely add a whole new dimension to your training!
The RKAGB website contains the syllabus, calendar of courses and contact details.
The School of Traditional Karate was established in Windsor, Berkshire in 1991. Their Chief Instructor (UK) is Sensei Ashley Jansen (6th Dan Shotokan Karate, 5th Dan Ryukyu Kobujutsu). Alongside Sensei Jansen, his highly experienced instructors run clubs within the East Berkshire area.
Sensei Jansen has considerable international experience at a high level and he is in demand internationally for the high quality training he provides. To find out more or join, visit the website .
The Biognor Regis Karate Club is led by Sensei Glen Frame (6th Dan Shotokan Karate, 5th Dan Ruykyu Kobujutsu).
His deep commitment to high quality teaching and practice is reflected in the success in national and international competitions and requests for demonstrations. The club is a member of the Rengokai Karate organisation. Whether you are new or experienced in Karate and Kobujutsu you will find much to gain from valuable insights and technical detail Glen provides.
Kyomeikai Karate, led by the Chief Instructor Peter Hawdio (4th Dan Shotokan Karate; 2nd Dan Ryukyu Kobujutsu) provides training in Shotokan Karate and Kobujutsu in the Isleworth, Twickenham and Hounslow area. With experience of training and competing internationally Peter provides high quality opportunities for both beginners and advanced students to develop their martial arts skills
Tuesdays
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Location:
Oaklands School
Gresham Road, Hounslow TW3 4BX
Price: £10 per class
Weekday
Mondays
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Location:
Cranford Community College
High Street, Hounslow TW5 9PD
Price: £10 per class
Saturdays
9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Location:
Oaklands School
Gresham Road, Hounslow TW3 4BX
Price: £10 per class