Didcot Old School Karate-Jutsu, also known as Didcot KU, is a martial arts club located in Didcot, Oxfordshire. They specialise in teaching an ancient form of Karate called Karate-Jutsu but utilise modern methodology. Didcot KU aims to offer a complete system for self-defence and personal growth.
What sets Didcot KU apart from other karate schools is their focus on realistic self-defence techniques. They teach self-defence at realistic distances with realistic attack patterns, making their training suitable for real-life situations. Unlike most traditional karate schools, Didcot KU is not a sports-oriented club. They offer a complete martial art that covers the four main pillars of a fighting system: striking, kicking, grappling and throwing, and seizing and controlling through locking and pressure points.
At Didcot KU, they teach Old School Pre-War Karate, not the modern version. Their system is based on the drills and principles of Koryu Uchinadi, which have been categorised and systemized by world-recognised karate expert Hanshi Patrick McCarthy, who holds the rank of 9th Dan.
Didcot KU welcomes adult students aged 15 and above of all fitness levels, shapes, and sizes. They prioritise creating a female-friendly environment. They offer free trial lessons for those interested in joining.
The classes are held at two locations: the New Tech College in Great Western Park on Mondays from 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM, and the Willowbrook Leisure Centre in Bowmont Water on Wednesdays from 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM. The cost per class is 7. 00, with a discounted rate of 9. 50 for attending two classes.
For inquiries, they can be contacted via email at info@oldschoolkarate. Uk or by phone at 07831 950 850.
Koryu Uchinadi Kenpo Jutsu, which is the foundation of Didcot KU's training, refers to the old fighting arts of Chinese origin as handed down in Okinawa. It is a method of responding to habitual acts of physical violence, utilising various techniques such as punches, kicks, throws, joint manipulations, strangles, pressure point strikes, and ground fighting. Unlike sports-based training, Koryu Uchinadi focuses on preparing students for dealing with real-world acts of aggression.
One of the unique aspects of Didcot KU is the use of unique two-person drills designed by Hanshi McCarthy. These drills allow students to safely train dangerous techniques, including strikes, escapes, balance displacement, strangulation, and kicks. By practising these drills, students can gain repetition with a partner without the need to constantly stop and reset after each technique.
The school logo of Didcot KU consists of the tip of a sword and the tip of a calligraphy brush. This symbolism represents the balance between the physical side of martial arts training and the cultural, intellectual, and spiritual aspects of the tradition. The spiritual aspect does not refer to religious beliefs but more towards mental and emotional wellbeing.
Didcot KU is dedicated to providing a comprehensive martial arts experience that incorporates self-defence skills, physical conditioning, and personal growth. They aim to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all individuals interested in learning Old School Karate.