Seishin KyoKai is an alliance of similar minded clubs, dedicated to teaching traditional karate that is of high quality using safe body movement. The style of karate we practise is Shotokan. We base our approach on the teachings of the founder, Master Gichin Funakoshi, and Sensei Hirokazu Kanazawa 10th Dan.
The training that the clubs in Seishin KyoKai provide includes kihon (basics), kata (form) and kumite (ritualised and freestyle fighting - controlled). Students are also encouraged to look beyond the traditional Shotokan grading syllabus and learn the history of karate as well as in-depth and effective Bunkai, Oi Jutsu and Henka forms of karate applications. Seishin KyoKai's grading syllabus is demanding, but achievable by anyone with the necessary perseverance and determination. The standard of instruction within the association is very high and performance required at gradings is above average. The founding sensei (Instructor), Phil Shire 7th Dan, is a dedicated karateka with many years of experience.
Ours is a traditional Japanese style, with the emphasis on karate training as a martial art rather than a competitive sport - although we can claim many excellent fighters and kata performers in our associations past and present membership.. Another important characteristic is that the fighting aspects of our karate are 'light controlled contact'. This means that strikes do not cause injuries to our training partners. Blocks and practising applications of kata do involve (non-injurious) contact as this is necessary to learn effective technique.
We have clubs and links to clubs in the United States of America (USA) and Spain. The clubs range from Shotokan, Renshinkan, Shorin Ryu and Goju Ryu. All the association instructors are DBS checked and are fully insured. Most are qualified first aiders. The Association has health and safety policies, risk assessments, child protection policies, etc.
If you are an individual, club or association and would like to join us or have one of instructors run a course for you please do not hesitate to contact us via the contact page.