Bristol Karate Academy

We're delighted to confirm that our monthly kumite development sessions will continue in the new year! So what are they? When are they? How much are they? Find out more below.

What's the deal?

Our kumite development sessions are held on the last Sunday of each month and are designed to give more opportunities for more people to learn or improve their jiyu kumite (free sparring).

Sessions won’t follow the usual class structure. They’re often ‘open practice’ with opportunities for bouts in the class. However we’ll still be working on meeting specific kumite-based goals:

Getting started with kumite
Understanding the rules of competition karate
Refining and improving techniques and combinations
Developing tactics for tournaments and advanced gradings

Who are the sessions open to?

They're open to anyone graded 9th kyu or above that's interested in learning or improving their kumite. These sessions are only for members that join our general classes too. They’re not a replacement for other sessions.

When are the sessions?

They're held from 11am until noon on the last Sunday of each month, straight after our usual Sunday morning classes at Backwell Parish Hall.

Why do you run these sessions?

To make sure our members have a broader experience and to give everyone more time on the mat.

Often our free sparring classes are restricted to higher grades, because that's what they’re required to learn for their gradings. But we want to give more people the opportunity to get involved, to explore more of what karate has to offer at an earlier stage.

For more experienced members, we’re naturally limited in the amount of time we spend each week on free sparring. So our new open kumite development sessions will increase the time spent on the mat, to help you prepare for gradings and tournaments.

What do I need to bring?

We understand that if you’re just getting started then you might not have all the right equipment just yet.

Please make sure you bring a gum shield. If you have pads too then bring these as well. If not, don’t let that deter you; we’ll have a limited number of mitts available to borrow for your first session. After this you'll need your own.

Those that wish to compete in tournaments need to get used to wearing a gum shield, mitts, shin/instep protectors and a groin guard for men and chest protector for women. A limited number of tournaments will require a WKF-approved body protector. You’ll need to have red AND blue equipment, including belts.

If you wish to buy any equipment then please get in touch.

How much are these sessions?

Free for most people. It’s free to anyone on a monthly membership; It won’t count towards the classes included in your monthly membership. It’s also free to anyone that joins the preceding 10am Sunday class, regardless of membership level. For all other members it’s just the same price as a normal 'pay as you go' session.

How do I book in?

Book in the same way as you book all other Bristol Karate Academy sessions. Please note there are less spaces available in the 11am class than the 10am class, so joining the earlier class will not guarantee that you’ll be able to stay on! Please book as far in advance as possible.

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