Essex KDS - Karate-do Shotokai martial arts club in Harlow, Essex

Welcome to the website of the Harlow, Essex KDS group. Karate-Do Shotokai (KDS) is a traditional karate style which focuses purely on the practice of karate as a martial art.

We run a friendly, social club where questions are encouraged and everyone is allowed to get the very best out of themselves – all in the spirit of developing quality karate practitioners. If you want to find out more then come along to one of our regular weekly practices. Our sessions are open to men and women of all ages and abilities.

Our instructors are all highly experienced and qualified and we run a small club to ensure every student gets direct, personal practice with us each and every lesson. Our senior instructor, 4th Dan Adrian Quick has taught Karate in Harlow since 1989.

The first lesson is free and no previous experience is required. All you need to practise is a t-shirt and tracksuit trousers! All are welcome!

What we believe a martial art should be

Too often sports, exercise and fitness talk about the benefits and bullet points of why you should participate. We prefer to start from a position of our belief about what a martial art should be.

This is what the KDS, as created by Harada Sensei believes...

We believe that martial arts should accessible and achievable for all people, no matter what size, age or gender.

We believe that martial arts should be low cost and available to everyone.

We believe that people should find getting fit and being healthy fun and interesting.

We believe that progression comes through being open and honest, asking questions and always learning no matter the level.

We believe that martial arts must continually evolve to improve.

We believe that martial arts should be understandable and demystified.

We believe there is always something new to learn.

We believe in substance over style.

We believe that martial arts should be social and friendly, both in and out of training.