Thursday evenings - 7.30 - 9.30

Overview Training in Komuso Martial arts is a blend of ancient wisdom and modern sports science theory. The martial arts and philosophical base are as relevant today as they were 2000 years ago.The training has been carefully designed to enable students to achieve their full potential in a safe and positive environment. Suitable for all age ranges Komuso develops good fitness & health, self confidence/control and provides a safe way to learn self defence technique.Juniors have different needs to older pupils and this is catered for with a separate syllabus which culminates in a junior black belt grade. This takes less time to achieve and does not teach the more dangerous techniques.The full syllabus teaches students to utilise the whole body and calm state of mind to defend themselves from much larger and even multiple aggressors. With an emphasis on a complete awareness of opponents, the system aims to blend with opponents actions and capitalise on their weaknesses in order to gain victory.ExerciseIn order to protect oneself the development of a strong body and mind is necessary. Apart from the practice of technique, which is exercise in itself, every lesson begins with a workout.Designed to achieve high levels of performance, both in daily life and for training, the routine involves aerobic and anaerobic exercise. Especially chosen callisthenic exercises are mixed with yoga like stretching and toning exercises to give a complete body workout.The routine is suitable for all age groups and fitness levels and exercises are both safe and effective. Komuso promotes a nurturing environment aimed at developing students potential.Martial ArtsKomuso emphasises a keen awareness and understanding of others and the environment. Its philosophy is based on equality of all and training begins and ends by showing respect to each other. Students and instructors form a circle in order to bow. There is no separation or obvious rank order as it is felt that all members can learn from each other.Training then takes the form of line work, bag/pad work, partner practice and form work.Techniques are practised first in a line or ordered group. Usually no calls are made, rather the instructor leads the practice by example or a student is asked so the instructor may observe. The techniques are not practised against an opponent at this stage.Bags or pads might then be used to increase stamina, focus and correct distance. The use of pads also develops power of delivery, confidence in technique and helps prevent joint injury.Great emphasis is placed on the Bunkai or application of technique and is practised with partners. This develops good coordination and helps juniors to learn cooperation. Practising martial arts technique against a partner also requires self control and discipline.Finally formwork is the practice of set patterns of martial techniques designed to impart particular knowledge to practitioners. All of the forms contain specific knowledge of one or more aspects of the martial arts. Form work develops stamina, coordination, control and self discipline.MeditationPractice of Komuso requires mental toughness, focus, awareness and a calm state of being. Several meditative practises are utilised in order to enable pupils to acquire these mental/physical attributes.Meditation is often used to prepare for training or to contemplate the lesson at the end. Students who participate in this practice fully soon reap benefits and although it is not mandatory it is recommended.