Shinobi Martial Arts
About this club
Shinobi Martial Arts is the newest club in the association, teaching Wado Ryu Karate at Kirkhamgate Village Hall just outside Wakefield. There is one class a week, on a Thursday evening, and it is open to anyone from six years old upwards — children, teenagers and adults all train in the same session rather than being split across separate nights.
It is run by Sensei Kevin Wood, who has been training since 1987, ran the WYSOK tournament squad for years and has competed at every level of the sport up to international competition. That makes for a good combination: a brand-new club with a very experienced pair of hands behind it, whether you are there to grade, to compete, or simply to do something on a Thursday evening that is good for you.
Class timetable
| Day | Time | Class | Ages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thursday | 5:45pm – 7:15pm | Wado Ryu Karate — all grades | 6+ |
Term-time and holiday variations are announced in class and on the club’s Facebook page.
What to bring to your first session
Nothing you do not already own. A T-shirt and jogging bottoms, bare feet, and a bottle of water. Once you decide to continue you will need a gi (suit) and a NAKMAS licence — the instructor will sort both, and there is no rush.
Getting here & parking
Yes
Postcode for satnav: WF2 0RS.
Common questions
Do I need a karate suit to start?+
No. Come in a T-shirt and jogging bottoms for your first few sessions. You train barefoot, so no trainers are needed either. Once you decide to carry on, your instructor will sort out a gi and a licence — there is no rush and no pressure.
How much does it cost?+
You pay per session, on the night. There is no joining fee, no contract and no monthly direct debit. Your first session is free so you can see whether it suits you before spending anything.
What age can my child start?+
Our Pee Wee classes take children from four years old, in separate shorter sessions pitched at that age group. Main classes generally start from around ten, though this varies by club — ask the instructor.
Can I stay and watch my child?+
Ask the instructor at your club. Some halls have room for parents to sit in and some do not, so it varies from venue to venue.
How often are gradings?+
Kyu gradings run roughly every three to four months across the association. Your instructor will tell you when you are ready — nobody is pushed to grade before they are.
Are the instructors checked?+
Every WYSOK instructor holds an enhanced DBS certificate, current first aid training and full insurance through our NAKMAS affiliation.