1. Burbage TaeKwon-Do Academy
City/Town: Hinckley
Postal Code: LE10 0PR
Street Address: Unit 3.3, 4 Hawley Rd
Country: UK
2. Sil Lum Kune
City/Town: Bedworth
Postal Code: CV12 8EB
Street Address: 2 George St Ringway
Country: UK
3. Uxbridge Shotokan Karate Club
City/Town: Uxbridge
Postal Code: UB8 2PJ
Street Address: The Uxbridge Community Centre, 32b The Greenway
Country: UK
4. Jason Boh’s School of Martial Arts
City/Town: Portsmouth
Postal Code: PO3 5QT
Street Address: Unit 9, Portsmouth Enterprise Centre
Country: UK
5. School of Kung Fu
City/Town: South Croydon
Postal Code: CR2 0BS
Street Address: Unit 40 Capital Business Centre, 22 Carlton Rd
Country: UK
6. Kinkan Dojo
City/Town: Ilford
Postal Code: IG2 7PQ
Street Address: 45-65 Oaks Lane
Country: UK
7. Kinkan Dojo
City/Town: Hornchurch
Postal Code: RM12 4YQ
Street Address: Abbs Cross Leisure Centre, Abbs Cross Lane
Country: UK
8. Holistic-Fitness Sport Martial Arts
City/Town: London
Postal Code: SW19 1RG
Street Address: Broadway Court, The Broadway
Country: UK
9. Korean Martial Arts Academy Ltd
City/Town: Torquay
Postal Code: TQ1 4DN
Street Address: The Torre C Of E Academy, Barton Rd
Country: UK
10. North 12 Martial Arts Academy
City/Town: London
Postal Code: N12 9QH
Street Address: Rear of 770 High Rd
Country: UK
11. Stretford Martial Arts
City/Town: Manchester
Postal Code: M32 0PS
Street Address: Gorse Hills Studio, Cavendish Rd
Country: UK
12. Evolution Martial Arts
City/Town: Taunton
Postal Code: TA1 5LY
Street Address: Unit 1 Cornishway North
Country: UK
13. The Mark Farnham Schools of Tae Kwon-Do
Country: UK
14. The Martial Arts Centre Eastbourne Ltd
City/Town: Eastbourne
Postal Code: BN21 3SE
Street Address: 24 Longstone Rd
Country: UK
15. Confidence Academy of Martial Arts
City/Town: Coalville
Postal Code: LE67 3PH
Street Address: Marlene Reid Centre, 85 Belvoir Rd
Country: UK
16. Premier Martial Arts Harrogate
City/Town: Harrogate
Postal Code: HG1 4BA
Street Address: Unit 32, Claro Court Business Centre
Country: UK
17. Keynsham Martial Arts School
City/Town: Bristol
Postal Code: BS31 1PH
Street Address: Wellsway Secondary School, Chandag Rd
Country: UK
18. Pro Martial Arts Schools (Worksop)
City/Town: Worksop
Postal Code: S81 7EN
Street Address: Worksop Leisure Centre, Valley Rd
Country: UK
19. Pro Martial Arts Schools (Retford)
City/Town: Retford
Postal Code: DN22 7NJ
Street Address: Retford Oaks Academy, Babworth Rd
Country: UK
20. ARO Fitness Kickboxing & Martial Arts
City/Town: Reading
Postal Code: RG30 3LJ
Street Address: Manor Primary School, 110 Ashampstead Rd
Country: UK
21. Poon Dojo Schools of Martial Arts Excellence
City/Town: London
Postal Code: E15 1JT
Street Address: Community Rd
Country: UK
22. Master Deedigan Martial Arts Academy
City/Town: Chippenham
Postal Code: SN15 3PA
Street Address: Olympiad Leisure Centre, Sadlers Mead
Country: UK
23. EWRK Martial Arts Club
City/Town: Clacton-On-Sea
Postal Code: CO15 4LP
Street Address: 25 Atlantic House, Telford Rd
Country: UK
24. Masters Academy Plymouth
City/Town: Plymouth
Postal Code: PL1 1TP
Street Address: Upper Floor 172-174 Rendle St
Country: UK
25. Master Deedigan Martial Arts Academy
City/Town: Taunton
Postal Code: TA1 2RW
Street Address: Blackbrook Pavilion, Blackbrook Way
Country: UK
26. Confidence Academy of Martial Arts
City/Town: Coalville
Postal Code: LE67 3PH
Street Address: 85 Belvoir Rd
Country: UK
27. Premier Martial Arts Kingston
City/Town: Kingston upon Thames
Postal Code: KT2 6DB
Street Address: 38 Park Rd
Country: UK
28. Uxbridge Taekwondo Academy
City/Town: Uxbridge
Postal Code: UB8 2LT
Street Address: 20 Cowley Rd
Country: UK
29. Wu Shu Kung Fu Academy
City/Town: London
Postal Code: NW3 4QP
Street Address: 15 Rance Rd
Country: UK
30. Bradford Taekwondo School
City/Town: Bradford
Postal Code: BD1 2JS
Street Address: 233 Thornton Rd
Country: UK
31. Ipswich Martial Arts Centre
City/Town: Ipswich
Postal Code: IP1 2GA
Street Address: 37 Handford Rd
Country: UK
32. Glasgow Tai Chi School
City/Town: Glasgow
Postal Code: G1 4DH
Street Address: 40 St Enoch Square
Country: UK
33. Southside Judo Club
City/Town: Sunderland
Postal Code: SR1 1QE
Street Address: 45 John St
Country: UK
34. Swindon Martial Arts Centre
City/Town: Swindon
Postal Code: SN1 2AB
Street Address: 22 Manchester Rd
Country: UK
35. Inverness Karate School
City/Town: Inverness
Postal Code: IV3 8BL
Street Address: 5 Grant St
Country: UK
36. The London Dojo
City/Town: Morden
Postal Code: SM4 5BL
Street Address: 3 Crown Lane
Country: UK
37. Norwich Martial Arts Club
City/Town: Norwich
Postal Code: NR1 3ER
Street Address: 28 Ber St
Country: UK
38. Bournemouth Kung Fu Academy
City/Town: Bournemouth
Postal Code: BH2 6BE
Street Address: 60 Queens Rd
Country: UK
39. Solihull Karate Club
City/Town: Solihull
Postal Code: B91 3DL
Street Address: 10 New Rd
Country: UK
40. Cardiff Judo Academy
City/Town: Cardiff
Postal Code: CF10 1TT
Street Address: 12 St Mary St
Country: UK
41. Sheffield Taekwondo School
City/Town: Sheffield
Postal Code: S1 2ND
Street Address: 7 Charles St
Country: UK
42. Bath Martial Arts Centre
City/Town: Bath
Postal Code: BA2 4AX
Street Address: 15 Pulteney Bridge
Country: UK
43. Brighton Aikido Dojo
City/Town: Brighton
Postal Code: BN2 0EU
Street Address: 1 Edward St
Country: UK
44. Edinburgh Karate Club
City/Town: Edinburgh
Postal Code: EH1 3EB
Street Address: 19 York Pl
Country: UK
45. Canterbury Judo School
City/Town: Canterbury
Postal Code: CT1 2JL
Street Address: 11 The Parade
Country: UK
46. York Taekwondo Academy
City/Town: York
Postal Code: YO1 8QG
Street Address: 22 Blake St
Country: UK
47. Belfast Kung Fu School
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 6PJ
Street Address: 2 Queen’s St
Country: UK
48. Portsmouth Karate Club
City/Town: Portsmouth
Postal Code: PO1 2LP
Street Address: 9 High St
Country: UK
49. Worcester Martial Arts Academy
City/Town: Worcester
Postal Code: WR1 2HS
Street Address: 13 Foregate St
Country: UK
50. Gloucester Judo School
City/Town: Gloucester
Postal Code: GL1 1HH
Street Address: 8 Northgate St
Country: UK
Martial arts in England have a long history and continue to thrive in contemporary society, blending traditional techniques with modern-day practices. From self-defense and fitness to competition and personal growth, martial arts offer a wide variety of benefits that appeal to people of all ages and backgrounds. In England, martial arts are practiced at all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners, and in many different styles.
This article explores the growth of martial arts in England, the different types of martial arts practiced, the benefits of training, and the role these practices play in modern English society.
The Growth and Popularity of Martial Arts in England
Martial arts have been a part of English culture for centuries, with different styles and techniques evolving from a range of influences, including historical European combat methods, Japanese, Chinese, and Southeast Asian martial arts. Today, martial arts in England enjoy widespread popularity, with thousands of clubs, gyms, and instructors offering a range of disciplines.
Martial arts gained significant traction in the UK during the 20th century, primarily through the influence of cinema and popular culture. Films featuring Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, and other martial arts icons brought global attention to martial arts and fueled a surge in their popularity. This phenomenon led to an increase in martial arts schools and the establishment of competitive events and tournaments.
Furthermore, martial arts also became recognized for their benefits in fitness, discipline, and self-defense. As a result, people in England, both young and old, are increasingly choosing martial arts as a way to improve their physical health, mental well-being, and personal development.
Popular Martial Arts in England
In England, a diverse array of martial arts are practiced, each with its own philosophy, techniques, and training methods. Some of the most popular martial arts in the country include:
- Karate
Karate is one of the most widely practiced martial arts in England, with a focus on striking techniques, including punches, kicks, and knee strikes. The discipline originates from Japan and emphasizes self-discipline, respect, and focus. Karate is taught in many schools, from beginners to advanced levels, and is particularly popular with children and teenagers.Karate competitions, including Olympic events, have contributed to its growing appeal in England. Many practitioners also appreciate the martial art’s emphasis on personal development and self-control, both of which contribute to building confidence and resilience.
- Judo
Judo is a Japanese martial art that focuses on throws, joint locks, and grappling. Unlike striking-based martial arts, Judo involves using an opponent’s momentum and balance to throw or pin them to the ground. Judo has a strong emphasis on respect, discipline, and mutual benefit, making it a popular choice for individuals looking to develop not only their physical strength but also their mental resilience.In England, Judo has a strong presence at both the amateur and professional levels, with numerous clubs offering training and competitive opportunities. Judo also has a significant role in British Olympic sports, with a number of top-level athletes representing the UK on the world stage.
- Taekwondo
Taekwondo, a Korean martial art known for its high, fast kicks, is another popular practice in England. It is a modern martial art with a focus on kicking techniques, including spinning and jumping kicks. Taekwondo is practiced by people of all ages and is well-known for its vigorous physical training, which helps improve flexibility, balance, strength, and cardiovascular health.In England, Taekwondo is often practiced as a competitive sport, with athletes participating in national and international tournaments. It is also an Olympic sport, which has contributed to its popularity, and many schools teach it as part of physical education programs.
- Boxing
Boxing, one of the oldest combat sports in the world, has a significant following in England. English boxing has a proud history, with legendary boxers like Muhammad Ali, Lennox Lewis, and Anthony Joshua bringing global attention to the sport. Boxing offers a comprehensive workout that includes strength training, cardiovascular conditioning, and mental focus.Boxing is practiced both as a competitive sport and as a form of fitness training. In England, boxing clubs are widespread, offering classes for all levels. The rise of fitness-focused boxing programs, such as “boxercise,” has also made boxing accessible to those interested in using it for weight loss and overall fitness rather than competition.
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a grappling-based martial art that has seen significant growth in England, particularly in recent decades. Known for its focus on ground fighting and submission techniques, BJJ emphasizes leverage and technique over brute strength, making it accessible to practitioners of all sizes. BJJ is particularly popular in mixed martial arts (MMA) training due to its emphasis on submissions and controlling an opponent on the ground.BJJ clubs are now common throughout the UK, and many practitioners compete in local, national, and international tournaments. The martial art also has a strong community-oriented culture, with students and instructors often developing close bonds during training.
- Kung Fu
Kung Fu is a Chinese martial art known for its variety of techniques, including strikes, kicks, joint locks, and acrobatics. It is characterized by its fluid movements and philosophical teachings, with a focus on internal energy (Qi) and balance. Kung Fu has a rich history and is often associated with traditional Chinese culture, as well as popularized by movies such as those featuring Bruce Lee.In England, Kung Fu has a strong following, with many clubs offering training in different styles, such as Wing Chun, Shaolin, and Wushu. Some schools focus on the traditional aspects of Kung Fu, while others integrate the practice into modern-day fitness regimes.
- Muay Thai
Muay Thai, also known as Thai boxing, is a striking martial art from Thailand that uses punches, elbows, knees, and kicks in its techniques. It is a full-contact sport that requires strength, endurance, and mental toughness. Muay Thai is increasingly popular in England, particularly among individuals interested in striking arts or training for mixed martial arts (MMA) competitions.Muay Thai training involves a rigorous workout routine, emphasizing cardio conditioning, strength, and flexibility. Its focus on close-range combat and clinch work makes it a valuable martial art for self-defense and competition.
Benefits of Practicing Martial Arts
Training in martial arts offers a wide range of physical, mental, and emotional benefits:
- Physical Fitness: Martial arts are a great way to stay fit. The varied training routines improve strength, flexibility, coordination, endurance, and balance. Many martial arts also incorporate cardiovascular exercise, helping to improve heart health.
- Self-Discipline and Focus: Martial arts require dedication, concentration, and respect for instructors and fellow students. These qualities contribute to greater self-discipline and mental focus, which can have a positive impact on other areas of life.
- Self-Defense Skills: Martial arts training equips individuals with practical self-defense techniques that can be useful in dangerous situations. Whether it’s learning how to protect oneself from physical threats or understanding how to stay calm under pressure, martial arts teach valuable skills for personal safety.
- Mental Health and Stress Relief: The structured and focused nature of martial arts training can help alleviate stress and anxiety. The discipline and mindfulness involved in martial arts have a calming effect, contributing to improved mental well-being.
- Confidence and Personal Growth: As individuals progress in martial arts, they gain confidence and a sense of achievement. The mastery of new techniques, the completion of belts or ranks, and the ability to perform under pressure build self-esteem and foster personal growth.
Conclusion
Martial arts in England are more than just physical training; they are a means to cultivate discipline, confidence, and mental resilience. With a wide variety of styles and disciplines available, martial arts offer something for everyone, whether they are interested in competitive sport, fitness, or personal development. As martial arts continue to grow in popularity, they will remain an integral part of the fitness and cultural landscape of England, providing valuable benefits for practitioners of all ages and abilities. Whether in traditional styles like Karate and Judo or modern disciplines like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai, martial arts provide a pathway to self-improvement and empowerment.