Shinrai Karate
About Us
Traditional Karate Instruction
The Shinrai school practices traditional Karate based on the Okinawan Naha-te system.
As well as a martial art with all the self defence aspects of traditional karate, Shinrai karate can also be practised as a sport. We encourage students to participate in Events (see separate page) as well as support those who wish to compete at national or international level.
Having our students’ best interest at heart, our goal is that through dedicated practice our students achieve a sense of pride, self-respect and confidence.
A variety of classes are provided for juniors of 6 years and over, adults, families, beginners, black belts and aspiring competitors.
Children, adults and family groups all welcome
Experienced, fully insured and DBS cleared instructors
Classes in Surrey, Berkshire and NW/SW London
The History of Karate
KARATE is a martial art developed in the Ryukyu Islands of what is now Okinawa, Japan. The three main karate styles took their names from the villages in which they were practiced. NAHA-TE, SHURI-TE, TOMARI-TE were developed jointly from indigenous fighting methods called te and from Chinese fighting styles Tode (China hand). In 1923 Okinawan masters changed the Chinese character to a Japanese character indicating that the martial arts now taught in Okinawa were no longer purely Chinese. Thus, the meaning changed from Tode to Kara-te (empty hand).
Karate was originally brought to Okinawa from China. It was then brought to the Japanese mainland in the early 20th century during a time of cultural exchanges between Japan and the Ryukyu Islands following its annexation by Japan in the 19th century. Gichin Funakoshi was invited to Tokyo give a karate demonstration, and in 1924 Keio University established the first karate club in a Japanese University. By 1932, many Japanese Universities had karate clubs. After the Second World War, Okinawa became a United States military base and karate became extremely popular with the servicemen based there. As interest in karate became worldwide, karate masters migrated to Europe and America in order to popularise the art. Karate was further popularised in the west during the mid to late sixties with the advent of martial arts films. The most popular film star around at that time was Bruce Lee, who inspired many including Bernard and Carol, to take up a martial art.
Present day Karate is categorised into four main parts: Mental Conditioning, Physical Conditioning, Self Defence, and Sport.
The Elements of Karate Training
Kihon
The basics of Karate, covering the stances, blocks, kicks and strikes that are used as you progress through the Karate grades
Kumite
Controlled sparring, to provide an opportunity to apply the basic skills that have been learnt.
Kata
Predefined patterns of karate moves, practised as a simulated response to an imaginary attack.
General Fitness
Karate is a physically demanding form of exercise, and can help develop fitness, flexibility, strength and focus.
Interested in training with us?
Try your first class for free.