Teaching traditional Shotokan Karate, Sport Karate and Self-Defence to children and adults of all ages and abilities within premium sports and recreation facilities in and around Central Scotland.

SHOTOKAN KARATE

Discover the many benefits of practicing the most popular
Karate style in the world!

Classes for all ages and abilities taught by National Governing Body and PVG registered instructors as recognised by Sport Scotland.

FIRST CLASS FREE TO TRY!

ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS

Looking to achieve your goals and improve your physical and mental health? Joining our Karate club can help you do just that! Our expert instructors will guide you through every aspect of Karate, from the basics to advanced techniques. You will not only gain self-defence skills but also increase your strength, flexibility, and endurance. Our club is open to people of all ages and skill levels, so whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced martial artist, we can help you reach your full potential. Don’t wait any longer to start your Karate journey – join us now and achieve your goals!

KARATE FOR ALL

Karate is for everyone! No matter your age, gender, or physical ability, you can benefit from learning this incredible martial art. Our Karate classes are designed to be inclusive and welcoming to all, with experienced instructors who will help you progress at your own pace. Whether you are looking to increase your fitness, gain self-defence skills, or simply try something new, Karate has something to offer you. Join our Karate community today and discover the many benefits this amazing sport can bring to your life.

Shotokan Karate is the most popular Karate style practiced around the world and has become a popular sport and form of self-defence. Its focus on developing the mind and body together makes it a valuable practice for individuals seeking personal growth and self-improvement.

SEMINAR REGISTRATION

SHOHEI TOYAMA SENSEI SEMINAR

JKS Japan HQ Instructor

Toyama Sensei is a highly respected instructor and a member of the elite group of teachers at the Honbu (HQ) Dojo in Japan. With an impressive background as a former champion, he brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the seminar.

This event presents a remarkable opportunity to train with one of Japan’s top instructors right in your own backyard.

This is a unique chance to learn from one of the best!

Limited spaces per session!
Early booking recommended to avoid disappointment. Don’t miss this opportunity!

We look forward to seeing you in class!

Shoshin Karate Centres is a leading Karate club affiliated with the Japan Karate Shoto Federation Scotland and a member of KarateScotland, the National Governing Body for Karate in Scotland as recognised by SportScotland.

Teaching traditional Shotokan Karate, Sport Karate and Self-Defence to children and adults of all ages and abilities within premium sports and recreation facilities in and around Central Scotland.

Our mission is to promote and develop the sport of Karate throughout Scotland and provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for people of all ages and skill levels to practice Karate.

Join us on our mission to promote and develop the sport of Karate, and to inspire the next generation of athletes, coaches, and officials to achieve greatness in this martial art.

We welcome you to join our community and experience the benefits of training with us. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced practitioner, our classes are designed to help you achieve your goals and develop your skills.

Reach out and sign up for a class today!

SHOSHIN KARATE CENTRES

Shoshin Karate Centres strongly believe that possessing solid values and a strong character are essential to excel in life and achieve your goals. Our team of exceptional instructors are here to inspire you to reach your absolute best and gain the inner strength necessary to navigate our complex world with confidence and drive.

We understand that each of our students comes to us with unique abilities and reasons for studying martial arts. Therefore, our well-prepared lessons are designed to enable students to learn at their own pace and ability level, so they can attain their personal goals.

Regular practice and dedication offer countless benefits, from increased focus to enhanced physical strength. We offer a range of classes that cater to different schedules and experience levels, so you can find the perfect fit for you.

Join us at Shoshin Karate Centres and let us help you become the best version of yourself!

Shotokan Karate places a great emphasis on discipline, respect, and traditional values, such as the Dojo Kun, which is a set of principles that guide the behaviour of practitioners both inside and outside of the Dojo. Today, Shotokan Karate is practiced by millions of people worldwide and is one of the most popular styles of Karate.

TRADITIONAL SHOTOKAN KARATE

Our Shotokan Karate classes are rooted in tradition, but designed to be dynamic and hyper-focused, aimed at improving your form, inner strength, and self-confidence. The learning process happens at your own pace in a friendly and fun atmosphere, making it easy for you to get the most out of each session.

Our classes cater to all age groups and abilities, making them ideal for families who want to practice together. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, you will find our classes challenging, engaging, and rewarding.

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the benefits of Shotokan Karate for yourself.

Book a class with us today to see what this class is all about!

Shotokan Karate has gained popularity around the world and is practiced by people of all ages and abilities. The art is known for its emphasis on developing strength, speed, and agility, as well as for its deep focus on the development of the character of its practitioners.

CHILDREN'S KARATE CLASSES

Our children’s Karate classes have been designed to help your child develop their basic motor and listening skills. By focusing on these skills, we aim to instil confidence and enthusiasm in your child, which will help them become better students, listeners, and more ambitious towards their future.

With our classes, your child will improve their performance as a student, become a better listener at home, and feel more motivated towards achieving their goals. We strive to create a fun and engaging environment that encourages positive development in every child.

Our Karate classes offer opportunities for positive social interaction, allowing children to learn how to collaborate with others and follow directions from their experienced NGB and PVG registered instructors. Our classes also provide a safe and supportive space for children to exercise, learn, and grow their skills.

Enrol your child today and let them experience the joys of martial arts with the guidance of our experienced and certified instructors. Give your child the gift of confidence and growth.

Shotokan Karate is an excellent way to improve your physical fitness. It provides a full-body workout that includes cardiovascular endurance, strength training, and flexibility.

SPORT KARATE CLASSES

Playing sports during childhood is a memorable experience that many cherish. It offers the thrill of competition, the bond among teammates, and the satisfaction of self-improvement. Shoshin Karate Centres encourages its members to compete if they desire but prioritises personal growth and development through training.

The Sport Karate program at Shoshin Karate Centres focuses on two disciplines: Kata, which involves solo forms, and Kumite, a point-sparring event. Our program offers training and guidance for both disciplines, and competitors can choose to participate in one or both.

Ultimately, the decision to compete is entirely up to the individual.

Our aim is to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for our members, where they can develop their skills, improve their confidence, and achieve their goals.

Shotokan Karate teaches practical self-defence techniques that can be used in real-life situations. By learning how to defend yourself, you can increase your confidence and feel more secure in your daily life.

THE JAPAN CONNECTION

Our Connection to Japan:

JKS Headquarters in Tokyo

We are honoured to be affiliated with the prestigious Japan Karate Shoto Federation, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, at 3 Chome-14-3 Nishiwaseda, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 169-0051.

Under the guidance of Masao Kagawa Shihan, a 9th Dan black belt and our world chief instructor, we strive to uphold the traditional values and techniques of Karate.

Our students have the privilege of attending regular training sessions with the JKS Japan Honbu Dojo Instructors. Additionally, we offer an exclusive opportunity to join us on our annual visits to Tokyo to immerse oneself in the authentic Japanese Karate culture.

We take immense pride in our connection to Japan and the JKS Federation, and we are committed to providing our students with the highest quality of instruction and training, and remain committed to promoting the art of Karate globally.

Shotokan Karate emphasises the development of positive character traits such as perseverance, respect, and humility. These traits can be applied to all areas of your life and can help you become a better person overall.

Holly Russell
Holly Russell
26 June 2023
After a 20 year break from training, I returned to karate last year to train alongside my son. Richard, our Sensi has a huge knowledge and experience of Traditional Shotokan karate and Sports Karate, as well as self-defence. There are 3 different locations to train on 5 different nights with a great bunch of people, all ages, all levels and everyone is made to feel welcome. Karate is great way to develop confidence, control, self-determination and great exercise for your whole body. If you are thinking about starting something new I couldn't recommend this club highly enough, my only regret is having that 20 year break. Stevie Russell
Kirstin Duff
Kirstin Duff
22 March 2023
Have been training with Richard for coming up to 13 years (the longest I've ever stuck with a sport). Karate has been great for my physical and mental, something that I have struggled with over covid. The zoom classes were one of the few things that was keeping me sane during lockdown and restrictions. It's a great family too, both my parents train too. I can not recommend karate and specifically Richard enough to everyone. Come join us.
Louise Gow
Louise Gow
16 March 2023
My daughter has been going now for about 6/7 months. She absolutely loves taking part, learning karate and her confidence shines through when she is doing it. Richard is great with all the kids and i’d highly recommend.
Ekaterine Tsurtsumia
Ekaterine Tsurtsumia
15 March 2023
Shoshin Karate is a great club run by highly skilled instructor who takes time to work with students individually to improve their form, technique and overall skill level. Shoshin karate club teaches not just physical techniques but the philosophies behind Karate, good discipline, respect and teamwork. The Shoshin karate club always has a positive atmosphere where students feel comfortable, motivated and inspired to learn and progress. The instuctor and the other club members are friendly, supportive, willing to help students achieve their goals and I highly recommend to join this amazing team.
Philip Watson
Philip Watson
25 June 2021
My wife and 8 year old daughter have just recently started their karate journey, the experience so far has been absolutely fantastic. We would highly recommend this club to all ages wishing to learn this amazing art. Every week is an enjoyable experience for us and we look forward to our classes. OSS to Richard and Nicola. From Anna & Hannah
Mellissa Steel
Mellissa Steel
22 June 2021
My son has loved every class he's attended, the staff are all attentive, welcoming and brilliant with kids and adults alike. Definitely one of the best around!
Thomas Duff
Thomas Duff
22 June 2021
Shoshin karate is brilliant place to learn karate with great atmosphere for all ages.
Janice Duff
Janice Duff
28 April 2021
This last year living with Covid and the resultant social restrictions has been difficult. The main thing that has kept me sane has been my karate. So many thanks to Richard for keeping the classes going (via zoom) over this last year. Can't wait for the indoor training restrictions to be lifted so everyone can get back together again. I've been training with Richard for just over ten years, starting after some gentle persuasion from my husband and daughter who had already been training for eight months (they still train with Richard). For someone who isn't very sporty or athletic, for me to stick with karate for ten years (and reached 2nd Dan black belt) shows just how good Richard is and the great atmosphere, camaraderie and support that there is in the various classes.
Gary McNeil
Gary McNeil
16 August 2019
My son has trained at this club for over 4 years. I cannot praise Richard and his club highly enough. He is great with kids and adults alike and always makes time for new members or guests who come to the club for a look or to train.
jane brookes
jane brookes
8 August 2019
My children are not the best at sticking with things , however the classes they attend here are always in their mind and looked forward to. They get fun and a real sense of achievement and I happily watch them grow in confidence . Richard has always been approachable and fair and happy to discuss progress and development to see my girls get the best from their time. I truly feel for once a club isn't all about the money and that they train with someone who genuinely wants to give them a space to learn and be their best in a friendly but structured environment. I believe my girls are learning more than karate. They are learning about friendship and the rewards of being part of a club that treats them with respect and interest. I can't recommend the club enough and my girls I know feel the same. Thank you Richard, your effort, patience and hard work does not go unnoticed.

Shotokan Karate provides a supportive community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for the art. Practicing together can create strong bonds and lifelong friendships.

WHAT IS KARATE?

Karate is a system of self-defence and physical culture originally developed and refined in Okinawa and Japan. The word Karate is formed from the Japanese words Kara (empty) and Te (hand), symbolising that its practitioners Karate-Ka are unarmed, but use their hands and feet for blocking and striking. Training is conducted within an environment based on certain Japanese cultural practices.

WHY DO PEOPLE DO KARATE?

There are many reasons; however, the majority of people feel that with an ever-increasing violent society, the need to be able to protect themselves and their families becomes the most important. With bullying still present at school, the self-confidence gained from Karate can make a big difference to a child’s school life.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF KARATE TRAINING?

The physical training required to reach a high level of skill in Karate promotes overall good health, fitness and wellbeing. The concentration, commitment and dedication required, help build a strong, confident and determined character. There is a “Dojo Kun”, or training code, which not only ensures a disciplined training environment, but also serves as a tool for improving behaviour, so that a true Karate-Ka will only use their fighting skills as a last resort.

KARATE TRAINING

You are not required to have any level of fitness to start training as long as you are in good health. Many people believe you have to be fit or flexible to do Karate, this is not so. The training is designed to improve these qualities over the years. All we ask is that you give 100% effort when training and enjoy the class. Karate students will improve their health, self-awareness, self-confidence and self-esteem. Parents and teachers continually report on the improvement in the behaviour of children who train regularly at our Karate class. This is because of our disciplined training structure and the emphasis placed on good etiquette.

WHAT IS INVOLVED IN KARATE TRAINING?

Training is structured into three main sections – Kihon (fundamental basic techniques) consisting of blocks, strikes, punches and kicks. Kata, (formal exercises), involving the fighting of multiple opponents at the same time, and Kumite (sparring). Each section has a range of complexity to suit the different levels or grades of students. Kumite will be introduced as basic blocking and counter-attacking but will progress at a later stage to free sparring which develops the timing, reflexes and co-ordination necessary for self-defence and competition. Close supervision of children is strict when doing all forms of fighting.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I TRAIN?

This is totally dependent on what you wish to gain from Karate, obviously the more you practice the faster you learn. As a general rule, training twice a week will keep you in pace with the rest of the class. Less than this and you need to be questioning yourself whether you are serious enough to learn a Martial Art. More than twice and the growth will be accelerated.

FIRST TIME ATTENDING THE CLUB FOR TRAINING

The hardest thing about attending a Karate class is walking into the Dojo (training hall). If you have already done that, then congratulations, if you are unsure or nervous about entering on your own don’t worry, ask the dojo secretary to guide you in. It’s quite natural to feel nervous.

JOIN US

We understand that people like to try things before making a commitment. We offer the chance of a FREE TRIAL, so you can come along and train in our classes for free before you decide if you wish to join. This gives you the option to try Karate before purchasing the equipment needed and paying for classes.

The practice of martial arts, including Shotokan Karate, can help reduce stress and improve overall mental well-being.

Something For Everyone!

Have a look at the classes we teach to see what fits your schedule and experience level

TRY A CLASS FOR FREE

FIRST CLASS FREE
OF CHARGE!

NO
COMMITMENT!

NO PAYMENT
REQUIRED!

REQUEST MORE INFORMATION

Register to arrange your FREE TRIAL, or to be added to our class waiting list.

One of our team will then contact you and discuss the joining process and answer any questions that you may have.

Please note that due to the high level of demand for our classes we operate a class waiting list so as not to oversubscribe our classes.

Our waiting lists operate by age group, class, and location.

If you are offered a class that does not suit, you will then remain at the top of the list for the next available space.

CLASS LOCATIONS

WOODLANDS COMMUNITY SPORTS HALL

MONDAY:

All Grades, All Ages (6yrs+)
6pm-7pm

FRIDAY:

All Grades, All Ages (6yrs+)
6pm-7pm

Advanced Grades
7pm-8pm

WOODLANDS COMMUNITY SPORTS HALL
Cochrane Avenue
FALKIRK, FK1 1QE

CARRONVALE SPORTS HALL

TUESDAY:

All Grades, All Ages (6yrs+)
6pm-7pm

THURSDAY:

All Grades, All Ages (6yrs+)
6pm-7pm

CARRONVALE SPORTS HALL
Carronvale Road
LARBERT, FK5 3LH

THROSK COMMUNITY CENTRE

WEDNESDAY:

All Grades, All Ages (6yrs+)
6pm-7pm

Advanced Grades
7pm-8pm

THROSK COMMUNITY CENTRE
Kersie Road
THROSK, FK7 7NA

JOIN US

Are you ready to join a martial arts program that will help you or your child reach their full potential?

Our program is designed to bring out the best in our students, both on and off the mat. With a focus on physical fitness, mental discipline, and character development, we offer a comprehensive approach to martial arts training.

Our experienced and dedicated instructors will work with you or your child to develop a strong foundation in the art of Shotokan Karate. Through regular practice and participation in our community, you will see improvements in confidence, focus, and overall well-being.

Whether you are looking for self-defence skills, a way to stay active, or a path to personal growth, our program has something to offer.

Come join us and experience the benefits of Shotokan Karate first-hand.

Let’s get started…

BOOK YOUR FREE TRIAL TODAY!

Looking to explore the world of Karate?

At our Karate classes, we understand that trying before committing is important. That is why we invite you to join us for a FREE TRIAL to experience our classes first-hand and decide if they are right for you.

During your FREE TRIAL, you will have the opportunity to train in our classes for free and get a sense of what it is like to practice Karate with us, you will not need to worry about purchasing any equipment or paying for classes. You can simply show up, participate in the training, and decide if you want to join us for the long term.

To schedule your FREE TRIAL, simply fill out our contact form, and one of our team members will contact you as soon as possible to confirm the details.

If our classes are currently full, do not worry – you can also request to be added to our waiting list.

If you prefer, you can also call or text us at 07793 681824.

So why wait?

Join us today and discover the benefits of Karate for yourself!

At Shoshin Karate Centres, our exceptional team of instructors and young leaders are dedicated to helping members achieve their goals with the highest standards of tuition.

OUR TEAM

Richard Steen

Richard Steen

Head Instructor Shoshin Karate Centres

Grade: 4th Dan

 

Nicola Steen

Nicola Steen

Class Assistant Shoshin Karate Centres

Grade: 2nd Dan

 

Arran Steen

Arran Steen

Class Assistant Shoshin Karate Centres

Grade: 2nd Dan

 

Lewis Crawford

Lewis Crawford

Class Assistant Shoshin Karate Centres

Grade: 2nd Dan

 

Janice Duff

Janice Duff

Class Assistant Shoshin Karate Centres

Grade: 2nd Dan

 

Allan Cope

Allan Cope

Class Assistant Shoshin Karate Centres

Grade: 2nd Dan

 

Ruth Reed

Ruth Reed

Class Assistant Shoshin Karate Centres

Grade: 2nd Dan

 

YOUNG LEADERS

 

Ewan Cope

Ewan Cope

Young Leader Shoshin Karate Centres

Grade: 1st Dan

At Shoshin Karate Centres, we hold a high level of respect for achieving a Black Belt in any martial art. We take pride in all of our members, past and present, who have earned this accolade.

BLACK BELT REGISTER

 

Achieving a Black Belt in any martial art should be highly respected.

At Shoshin Karate Centres we are extremely proud of each and everyone of our members past and present who have attained this accolade.

 

NAMEGRADE
Richard Steen4th Dan
David Marandola4th Dan
Lewis Steen2nd Dan
Lewis Crawford2nd Dan
Nicola Steen2nd Dan
Arran Steen2nd Dan
Janice Duff2nd Dan
Ruth Reed2nd Dan
Allan Cope2nd Dan
Kirstin Duff2nd Dan
Steven Russell1st Dan
Tom Duff1st Dan
Willow Reed1st Dan
David Sharp1st Dan
Ewan Cope1st Dan
Gary Duncan1st Dan
Charlie Thompson1st Dan
Jamie Slater1st Dan
George O'Donnell1st Dan
Lucia Cook1st Dan
Torin Reed1st Dan
Christopher O'Donnell1st Dan
Dónal Cunningham1st Dan
Theo Cameron1st Dan
Ian McVickers1st Dan
Connor McVickers1st Dan
Gary McNeil1st Dan
Taylor Young1st Dan
Iga Wojciehowska1st Dan

Karate enhances physical and mental abilities, regardless of age. Classes cater to both young and mature students, tailored to their abilities and potentially benefiting other areas of life such as school, work, and social interactions.

FREE TRIAL

We understand that people like to try things before making a commitment.

We offer the chance of a FREE TRIAL so you can come along and train in our classes for free before you decide if you wish to join. This gives you the option to try Karate before purchasing any equipment needed and paying for classes.

REGISTER

Register and book your FREE TRIAL online via our club website.

One of our team will then contact you and discuss the joining process and answer any questions that you may have. Please note that due to the high level of demand for our classes we operate a class waiting list so as not to oversubscribe our classes. Our waiting lists operate by age group, class, and location. If you are offered a class that does not suit, you will then remain at the top of the list for the next available space.

FIRST LESSON

On your first lesson – you should arrive at the venue ten minutes before the start of class. You should then check-in and register with the class instructor.

It is important that you inform the class instructor of any special health needs or injuries that you have before the start of class.

You will also need to wear loose sports type clothing such as jogger bottoms and plain t-shirts (no football tops or slogans) and bring a bottle of water with you. Footwear is not required as you will be training in your bare feet.

NEXT STEP

For the first few months you will be learning the fundamental blocking, punching, and kicking techniques of Karate, along with the Dojo rules and etiquette.

You will also be introduced to various fitness and flexibility exercises to help increase your overall fitness, wellbeing, and performance.

Please note that it is highly recommended that you should train a minimum of twice per week. This will keep you in pace with the rest of the class and allow you to develop your new skills.

Training twice per week is a mandatory requirement once you have achieved Red Belt level.

MEMBERSHIP/LICENCE

You can train in a maximum of two classes before you need to apply for membership and licence.

Our membership year runs from 1st January – 31st December.

Payment of membership fees are calculated both annually and pro-rata depending on when you join our club. Membership fees are renewable annually and are collected between 1st December and 15th January. If payment is not received by 31st January, you will no longer be entitled to train with Shoshin Karate Centres.

All club members taking part in Karate training must obtain a licence to practice Karate from the association representing the club and its members at national level. This must be done upon enrolment to the club and renewed annually by the member.

All students must hold a current valid Karate licence to participate in any of our classes, gradings and activities. If you do not hold or are unable to present a current up to date Karate licence you will not be permitted to participate in any of our classes and activities.

Membership and licences are renewable annually and are the responsibility of the student. However, reminders will be issued.

Members must ensure that they renew their licence on or before the expiry date each year.

CLASS FEES

We request that class training fees are paid monthly in advance by standing order on the 1st of each calendar month.

You simply choose how often you would like to train and select your relevant payment plan. Attendance is monitored and if for any reason lessons are missed, we allow for these lessons to be made up at any other suitable class or venue, two weeks either side of your missed class.

For your first month’s payment you can either pay by cash or card until the standing order is processed by your bank. If you join in the middle of a month you can pay per class. After your first month of training we do not accept payment on a class to class basis.

The standing order payment is controlled by the student and is simply cancelled if training stops.

UNIFORM & EQUIPMENT

After a maximum of one month’s training has elapsed you will need to wear a Karate Gi during training.

Karate Gi’s embroidered with the club badge can be ordered from the class instructor.

Sparring safety equipment is a compulsory requirement for all members.

Equipment and uniforms can be purchased either as an individual product or as a complete set from your instructor or our club website.

Sparring equipment is not required upon enrolment, but it will be a necessary future purchase as your skills progress, and you are introduced to partner training.

FIRST BELT & GRADINGS

Once you have completed the necessary training requirements and your instructor agrees you have reached the required standard you will be invited to attempt your first and subsequent grading examinations (Grading fees apply).

All subsequent belts vary in the minimum number of lessons and additional requirements. These will be shown in your members app and digital membership account. Students must have trained consistently for a minimum number of lessons since their last grading and their instructor must confirm the required standard has been reached before an invitation to grade.

Grading examinations are held three times per year.

ATTENDANCE

Please note that it is highly recommended that you should train a minimum of twice per week. This will keep you in pace with the rest of the class and allow you to develop your new skills.

Attendance is monitored and if for any reason lessons are missed, we allow for these lessons to be made up at any other suitable class or venue, two weeks either side of your missed class.

Training twice per week is a mandatory requirement once you have achieved Red Belt level.

CONTACT SHOSHIN KARATE

To find out more about Shoshin Karate Centres and our classes.

Please complete the contact form and we’ll
get back to you as soon as we can.

Alternatively, you can also call or txt us on
07793 681824

    EVENTS CALENDAR

    Shoshin

    Karate

    Teaching traditional Shotokan Karate, Sport Karate and Self Defence to children and adults of all ages and abilities in and around the Falkirk area of Central Scotland.

    Members of:

    • Japan Karate Shotorenmei
    • Scottish Karate Governing Body
    • World Karate Federation

    Classes taught by national governing body and PVG registered instructors.

    Regular courses & seminars with top visiting instructors from Japan!

    Active Schools partnership provider.