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 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.
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
Head Instructor Shoshin Karate Centres
Grade: 4th Dan

Nicola Steen
Class Assistant Shoshin Karate Centres
Grade: 2nd Dan

Arran Steen
Class Assistant Shoshin Karate Centres
Grade: 2nd Dan

Lewis Crawford
Class Assistant Shoshin Karate Centres
Grade: 2nd Dan

Janice Duff
Class Assistant Shoshin Karate Centres
Grade: 2nd Dan

Allan Cope
Class Assistant Shoshin Karate Centres
Grade: 2nd Dan

Ruth Reed
Class Assistant Shoshin Karate Centres
Grade: 2nd Dan
YOUNG LEADERS

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.
NAME | GRADE |
---|---|
Richard Steen | 4th Dan |
David Marandola | 4th Dan |
Lewis Steen | 2nd Dan |
Lewis Crawford | 2nd Dan |
Nicola Steen | 2nd Dan |
Arran Steen | 2nd Dan |
Janice Duff | 2nd Dan |
Ruth Reed | 2nd Dan |
Allan Cope | 2nd Dan |
Kirstin Duff | 2nd Dan |
Steven Russell | 1st Dan |
Tom Duff | 1st Dan |
Willow Reed | 1st Dan |
David Sharp | 1st Dan |
Ewan Cope | 1st Dan |
Gary Duncan | 1st Dan |
Charlie Thompson | 1st Dan |
Jamie Slater | 1st Dan |
George O'Donnell | 1st Dan |
Lucia Cook | 1st Dan |
Torin Reed | 1st Dan |
Christopher O'Donnell | 1st Dan |
Dónal Cunningham | 1st Dan |
Theo Cameron | 1st Dan |
Ian McVickers | 1st Dan |
Connor McVickers | 1st Dan |
Gary McNeil | 1st Dan |
Taylor Young | 1st Dan |
Iga Wojciehowska | 1st 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.