At Grove Martial Arts we teach practical Goju Ryu karate to both adults and children. Our focus is solely on self defence; delivering both soft and hard skills relevant to the threats our students may face.
The founding members of Grove Martial Arts are three generations of the same family. Their karate roots go back many years with them having taught at and run local clubs since the 1980s. Our students benefit from this experience and generational knowledge as well as from all our instructors continually striving to improve their own karate and take on modern training concepts.
We feel strongly that young people should be taught self defence in a way that truly equips them with the skills they need to stay safe and we deliver this in our junior sessions in a fun and accessible way. The benefits of martial arts for children are far reaching and have an impact in all areas of their lives.
At Grove Martial Arts everyone is welcome. We offer training that is adaptable and useful to the individual. All abilities are well catered for within our club. We have members with varying ages and physical limitations, we have yet to find a student we couldn't accommodate!
Karate brings together a cross section of society that might otherwise not spend time together but some great friendships have been forged in our dojos.
"I went along for my first session, and was hooked! Friendly, expert tuition, and a great club atmosphere. Other students were really welcoming, and I've never looked back!"
Lewis
There are many martial arts and combat sports out there for you to choose from. When you select a group there are a number of factors to consider if you are to make the most of your time and hard earned money. When applying to join GMA you may be asked:
This helps us best serve your needs, if the training we offer isn't right for you we have links with other local groups who may be able to offer what you’re looking for.
We offer 4 FREE SESSIONS for new prospective members - this allows us to assess your suitability for our training, and for you to decide if we are right for you.
Grove Martial Arts is run by its members, with everyone having a voice. Training is hard but progressive and tailored to the individual. We strive to develop our students at a pace that is manageable but challenging. Being part of Grove Martial Arts opens many doors into the exciting world of pragmatic martial arts; there are many opportunities to get involved with the various club activities outside of normal training time. We are very aware of the pressures of work and family life on our students and as such there is no pressure to take part in these extra training opportunities.
Monday - 6:30 to 7:30pm & 7:30 to 8:30pm
Thursday - 6:30 to 8:00pm
Monday - 5:00 to 5:45pm & 5:45 to 6:30pm
Thursday - 5:00 to 5:45pm & 5:45 to 6:30pm
Saturday - 9:00 to 9:45am & 9:45am to 10:30am
Tuesday - 7:00 to 8:00pm
Friday - 7:00 to 8:00pm
Friday - 6:00 to 6:45pm
We know it can be daunting to take that first step through the Dojo door - so we've collated a selection of common questions asked by new students.
If you can't find the answers to your questions please email or call us - we're always keen to hear from new potential members, we'll answer any questions you may have!
Q: What can I expect from my first month training?
A: Your first month will consist of working one-to-one or in a small group with one of our instructors who will take you through some basic techniques and core principles of Goju Ryu Karate. Safety comes first and we will ensure that you are completely comfortable and enjoying what you're doing.
Q: What should I wear?
A: Any loose clothing that you can comfortably wear for physical activity; we also train barefoot. Once you become a member you will be given a Karate Gi (uniform) and white belt.
Q: What safety equipment is provided?
A: For your first few months of training the club will provide all the safety equipment you will need. Eventually you will be required to buy your own items of personal protective equipment which includes a groin guard, gum shield and gloves; females also require a chest protector. These items are available through the club at a competitive price.
Q: What equipment do I need to provide myself?
A: You aren’t required to provide any training equipment but it is recommended that you bring a bottle of drinking water to every session.
Q: What are the risks?
A: Our training is full contact and so we would be lying if we told you training doesn’t sometimes hurt! Don’t worry, training is progressive and we take every precaution to ensure your safety and avoid injuries.
Q: Is there a contract to sign or a minimum commitment?
A: No – you will stay because you want too. There is a joining fee which is payable after a month of training with us, this covers the cost of your insurance, student record book, Gi (Karate uniform), belt and club badge which is awarded once a student has reached green belt, typically after 12 months of training.
Q: How do I pay for my training?
A: Your first FOUR SESSIONS are FREE. Once you become a member your monthly training fee is payable via standing order. You remain completely in control of your payments and may cancel at any time without incurring a charge.
We take adult students from the age of 13 and junior students from the age of 4. Our junior members train in a separate class.
You are welcome to view one or a number of sessions before taking part in your first training session. Students pay for their position within the club and may train at any of the sessions for £67 per month for adults, £47 per month for juniors, which is payable via standing order.
We appreciate the impact the current financial climate has had on everyone. We strive to keep costs to a minimum while still maintaining a high standard of training and offering exciting opportunities. As a local club, we strive to to offer competitive training fees and equipment at very competitive prices.