BACKGROUND
The Japan Karate Association is the most authoritative and largest karate organisation in the world. ‘The Keeper of Karate’s Highest Tradition’. JKA Belfast teaches traditional Shotokan Karate and utilises a standardised training methodology passed on to the student directly from the Japan Karate Association HQ in Tokyo, through our Chief Instructor Noel Casey 7th Dan JKA.
Sensei Noel Casey is Chief Instructor of both JKA Ireland and of the sole and only official representative of the Japan Karate Association in Northern Ireland (JKA Northern Ireland). This means that all courses and gradings are sanctioned and ratified directly by JKA HQ in Tokyo. Sensei Casey currently possesses Class A Judge, Instructor & Examiner qualifications and is the only person who may administer JKA Dan gradings here in Ireland having been issued ‘Special Rights’ by JKA HQ to do so. JKA Ireland has had the privilege of hosting both the JKA European Championships (April 2016 in Dublin) and the Funakoshi Gichin World Shotokan Championships in Limerick, in August 2017.
Our students are encouraged to participate in all aspects of Karate and to avail of the opportunities to train, grade and compete at whatever level they wish to.
” Spirit first, technique second. “
“It's a really friendly, family oriented club. Be prepared to work hard but have a great time doing so. ”
- Gary R. -
TRAINING PRINCIPLES
Kihon
Basic Techniques including blocks, punches and kicks. Basics form the basis of karate training whereby striking and blocking techniques may be used in essence to disable an opponent. Japan Karate Association, in particular, refers to Shotokan Karate as being able to achieve this in as little as one technique and this ethos carries through all areas of the training.
Kata
A pre-determined series of structured movements and techniques executed during a routine or ‘fight’ against multiple imaginary opponents. There are 26 kata in the syllabus and all are made up of the basic techniques learned through Kihon training.
Kumite
Kumite is developed in stages from 3 step structured attacks and blocks, through to 1 step, semi-free sparring (Jiyu Ippon Kumite) and finally free sparring (Jiyu Kumite). The discipline of Kumite incorporates basic techniques learned through Kihon training delivered with the ease and effectiveness developed through Kata training. The emphasis is on explosive movements executed in a spontaneous manner.
Our Story
JKA Belfast and all its students are affiliated directly to JKA HQ in Tokyo through JKA Northern Ireland. Chief Instructor Noel Casey Sensei 7th Dan JKA ensures the ethos of JKA style training is upheld through regular trips to train in Tokyo, and subsequent local courses at all JKA Northern Ireland and JKA Ireland locations.
JKA Belfast offers Traditional Shotokan Karate Classes to develop speed, flexibility, fitness, strength, confidence and sporting opportunities in the form of access to competition whether local, national or international. Instructors Ashley Hill 3rd Dan JKA and Stephen Bell 3rd Dan JKA compete at all 3 levels, and have represented JKA Ireland at International Competition level. This includes the JKA European Championships in Ireland 2016, Netherlands 2017, Norway 2019 and at the 14th Funakoshi Gichin Cup World Championships in Limerick, Ireland in August 2017 hosted by JKA Ireland.
The club is affiliated to the National Governing Body for Karate in Northern Ireland (Northern Ireland Karate Board) who are the only governing body recognised by Sport NI and the Olympic Committee (through their affiliations to BKF, EKF and WKF).
There are many opportunities to both train and compete through the calendar year for students of all ages, levels and abilities.
Come and get involved, and learn in an inclusive and welcoming environment. Adults and kids welcome.
Bring water.
OPENING TIMES
MON
TUE
7:30 – 8:30pm Adults
WED
THU
FRI
7:30 – 8:30pm Intermediate
8:30 – 9:30pm Advanced
SAT
SUN
Contact Us for More Information:
Shotokan (JKA) Karate Classes. Coey Room (1st floor) Merville House, Merville Garden Village, Belfast BT37 9TH
Prices
Children & Adult Fees Apply
Payable termly - Family Discount Available
Contact Us for More Information:
FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM
jka_belfast
528 865
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by jka_belfast 9 months ago
Congratulations to our students who graded last night under Sensei Casey. Thanks also to Clondalkin Shotokan Academy Dublin for joining -
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by jka_belfast 8 months ago
**Reminder** The sole Representative for JKA in Northern Ireland is accepting applications from both Clubs and Individuals. Contact info @jkabelfast .com #authenticjka -
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EST. 2017
JKA BELFAST
Merville Garden Village
Newtownabbey
BT37 9TH