Kudos Martial Arts
More than martial arts – we develop confidence, discipline and
character for life through karate
Full contact. All ages. No excuses. No upper age limit
Adult Martial Arts & Karate Classes in Sandwich
A Long Established and
Credible Martial Arts School
For Adult Men & Women Seeking Quality Martial Arts Training in Sandwich
For ages 18 and over. No experience necessary. No fitness level required. No upper age limit.
If you’ve been thinking about starting martial arts — or returning to it after years away — this is your sign. Kudos Martial Arts adult Kyokushin karate classes are for everyone: the complete beginner who has never thrown a punch, the parent who started watching their child train and thought ‘I want to do that’, the former athlete looking for something with more substance than the gym, and the person in their 40s, 50s, or beyond who has decided it’s never too late.
And it isn’t. We can prove it.
In December 2025, seventeen of our students graded at our annual black belt examination. The ages ranged from 15 to 59. David earned his 1st Dan black belt at 56. Geoff earned his at 57. John earned his 3rd Dan at 59. Phil and Glenys — husband and wife — both graded to 2nd Dan on the same day. Emma, our Student of the Year, earned her 1st Dan at 47 while her daughter Kadi was representing England at international level. These are not exceptional people with exceptional athletic gifts. They are people who showed up, worked hard, and discovered what consistent training produces. That’s all.
Kudos Martial Arts offers adult Kyokushin karate classes at two convenient venues in Sandwich — Sandwich Technology School on Tuesdays and Sandwich Leisure Centre on Fridays, both on Deal Road. From day one you train in the main adult class — alongside black belts, experienced competitors, complete beginners, parents, professionals, and people of every age and background. You are taken seriously here. Whatever your starting point. Whatever your age.
Most of our adult students tell us the same thing: they wish they’d started sooner. You can’t go back. But you can start today.
About the Sandwich Adult Club
Kudos Martial Arts Sandwich has been serving the East Kent adult community for over 20 years — originally founded by Japanese Kyokushinkai instructor Yuji Okamoto and now home to one of the most dedicated adult student communities across our four clubs.
The Sandwich club was awarded our Student of the Year 2025 — Emma Brice, who earned her 1st Dan black belt in December, competed at national and European level, and fundraised tirelessly to help the knockdown team travel to compete in away tournaments. At 47, training alongside her daughter Kadi — England representative and Irish Open competitor — Emma’s story is one of the most inspiring in our organisation.
With two venues on Deal Road giving you Tuesday and Friday training options, and the excellent Sandwich Leisure Centre studio offering one of the best training environments in Kent, our Sandwich adult club is a compelling choice for adults across East Kent.
Not Your Average Martial Arts — This is Kyokushin
Why Sandwich adults are choosing Kyokushin over MMA, BJJ, kickboxing, and boxing
We understand the appeal of MMA, BJJ, boxing, and kickboxing. They have real credibility, exciting profiles, and genuine competitive scenes. But there’s something important about Kyokushin that most people don’t know — and it changes everything.
Kyokushin is bare knuckle, full contact karate. It is the striking foundation that Georges St-Pierre — one of the greatest MMA champions of all time — built his career on. Andy Hug, legendary K-1 World Champion, was a Kyokushin fighter. Francisco Filho, multiple world champion, trained Kyokushin. This is not the karate you’ve seen in films. This is the real thing.
What makes Kyokushin different from the alternatives:
- Full contact striking — powerful body shots, leg kicks, genuine knockdown competition
- No face punching — bare knuckle rules mean no repeated blows to the head that boxing and MMA normalise
- Complete striking system — not just hands, not just ground work, but the full arsenal of standing strikes
- Extraordinary conditioning — Kyokushin fighters are globally renowned for physical toughness and stamina
- Traditional structure — the discipline, respect, and clear progression that combat sports gyms rarely offer
- Community — a club, not a gym. People who know your name and care about your progress
- Real competition available — but never required
For adults especially — the no face punching rule matters.
Boxing and MMA accept repeated blows to the head as part of training. Kyokushin doesn’t. You develop genuine full contact skills, real fighting fitness, and authentic martial arts ability — without the cumulative head punches that makes other combat sports a long-term worry for recreational adult practitioners.
All the toughness. All the credibility. All the contact.
Not Your Average Martial Arts — This is Kyokushin
Why Sandwich adults are choosing Kyokushin over MMA, BJJ, kickboxing, and boxing
We understand the appeal of MMA, BJJ, boxing, and kickboxing. They have real credibility, exciting profiles, and genuine competitive scenes. But there’s something important about Kyokushin that most people don’t know — and it changes everything.
Kyokushin is bare knuckle, full contact karate. It is the striking foundation that Georges St-Pierre — one of the greatest MMA champions of all time — built his career on. Andy Hug, legendary K-1 World Champion, was a Kyokushin fighter. Francisco Filho, multiple world champion, trained Kyokushin. This is not the karate you’ve seen in films. This is the real thing.
What makes Kyokushin different from the alternatives:
- Full contact striking — powerful body shots, leg kicks, genuine knockdown competition
- No face punching — bare knuckle rules mean no repeated blows to the head that boxing and MMA normalise
- Complete striking system — not just hands, not just ground work, but the full arsenal of standing strikes
- Extraordinary conditioning — Kyokushin fighters are globally renowned for physical toughness and stamina
- Traditional structure — the discipline, respect, and clear progression that combat sports gyms rarely offer
- Community — a club, not a gym. People who know your name and care about your progress
- Real competition available — but never required
For adults especially — the no face punching rule matters.
Boxing and MMA accept repeated blows to the head as part of training. Kyokushin doesn’t. You develop genuine full contact skills, real fighting fitness, and authentic martial arts ability — without the cumulative head punches that makes other combat sports a long-term worry for recreational adult practitioners.
All the toughness. All the credibility. All the contact.
Practical Self-Defence for Adults
Real skills. Not theory. Not choreography.
Kyokushin karate develops practical self-defence capability as a natural by-product of training — not as a separate add-on or a theoretical exercise. The striking techniques, physical conditioning, and situational awareness you develop through regular Kyokushin training give you genuine capability to protect yourself and those you care about.
Self-Defence for Women
We have many female students across all our adult classes, and for women in particular, the benefits of Kyokushin training go far beyond physical technique. The confidence, awareness, and physical capability that develops through consistent training fundamentally changes how you carry yourself, how you assess situations, and how you respond to perceived threats — long before any physical confrontation becomes relevant.
Our female students consistently tell us that the greatest self-defence benefit of training isn’t any specific technique — it’s the quiet, unshakeable confidence that means they move through the world differently. Less hesitant. More aware. More capable. That confidence is visible — and it matters.
- Practical striking skills that work regardless of size or strength differential
- Awareness and situational confidence
- Physical fitness that supports capability
- Mental composure under pressure
- The confidence that reduces the likelihood of being targeted in the first place
- A supportive, respectful training environment for women of all ages and abilities
We welcome women of all ages and fitness levels. Our classes are inclusive and respectful, and our instructors are experienced at working with female students from complete beginner level. You will not feel out of place, intimidated, or uncomfortable — that’s something our female students tell us consistently.
What Adults Learn in Our Kyokushin Classes
Our adult programme follows the full Kyokushin syllabus — the same authentic curriculum used worldwide to develop serious martial artists. Training is progressive, challenging, and designed to work for adults of every age and fitness level.
Physical Development
- Full Kyokushin striking system — punches, kicks, knee strikes, elbows, and blocks
- Cardiovascular fitness and stamina that improves measurably within weeks
- Functional strength and explosive power
- Flexibility and mobility — particularly valuable as we age
- Bag work, pad work, and partner training
- Competition preparation for those who want to compete
Mental Benefits
- Stress relief — genuine, physical, complete
- Mental toughness built through progressive challenge
- Focus and clarity — training demands your full attention
- Discipline that transfers to every area of life
- Confidence built on genuine physical capability
- A genuine break from work, family, and daily responsibilities
Self-Defence
- Practical striking skills that work regardless of size
- Situational awareness and threat assessment
- Physical capability and mental composure under pressure
- De-escalation awareness — knowing when not to fight
- Confidence that changes how you carry yourself
Life Skills and Community
- Discipline and commitment
- Respect — for instructors, training partners, and yourself
- Humility — there is always more to learn
- A community of like-minded people who become genuine friends
- Something that belongs entirely to you
- A skill and a passion you can carry for the rest of your life
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Sandwich Adult Karate Class Schedule
Easily accessible from: • Sandwich town centre • Deal • Walmer • Eastry • Ash • Surrounding East Kent villages
TO MAKE YOUR BOOKING – SELECT FROM THE CHOOSE YOUR CLASS LIST BELOW
Sandwich Technology School
Tuesday
7.00pm to 8.30pm
Sandwich Technology School
Main Hall
Deal Road
Sandwich
CT13 0FA
Sandwich Leisure Centre
Friday
7.00pm to 8.30pm
Sandwich Leisure Centre
Dance Studio 1
Dover Road
Sandwich
CT13 0BU
Booking Calendar
Sandwich Technology School
How to Book Your Class
Our Adult karate classes (ages 18+) offer excellent value with flexible options.
All new students must book in advance. Simply:
1. Choose your preferred class time from our schedule above
2. Book online through our calendar system
3. Arrive 10 minutes early for your first class
4. Wear comfortable athletic clothing
5. Meet our instructors and get started!
Adult Karate Class Pricing at
Sandwich Tech
MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP (Recommended)
• 1 class per week: £45/month
• 2 classes per week: £70/month
TRIAL CLASS
Not sure if karate is right for you? Try before you commit!
• One-off trial class: £15
• Experience a full session before any commitment
• Meet our instructors and see our training firsthand
• No obligation to continue
Payment is by bank transfer (BACS) and must be arranged in advance. We’ll provide full details when you book.
We look forward to welcoming you to our Sandwich karate family!
Booking Calendar
Sandwich Leisure Centre
How to Book Your Class
Our Adult karate classes (ages 18+) offer excellent value with flexible options.
All new students must book in advance. Simply:
1. Choose your preferred class time from our schedule above
2. Book online through our calendar system
3. Arrive 10 minutes early for your first class
4. Wear comfortable athletic clothing
5. Meet our instructors and get started!
Adult Karate Class Pricing at Sandwich Leisure Centre
MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP (Recommended)
• 1 class per week: £45/month
• 2 classes per week: £70/month
TRIAL CLASS
Not sure if karate is right for you? Try before you commit!
• One-off trial class: £15
• Experience a full session before any commitment
• Meet our instructors and see our training firsthand
• No obligation to continue
Payment is by bank transfer (BACS) and must be arranged in advance. We’ll provide full details when you book.
We look forward to welcoming you to our Sandwich karate family!
Superb karate club that has great instructors and a very friendly, positive and welcoming atmosphere. I re-started training after a small gap of 30 years…and love that it caters for all – male, female, older or younger. It provides a challenge, but you are always supported and encouraged. 100% recommend.
David Leddington
Lukas absolutely loves his Sunday training sessions. It’s something he genuinely looks forward to every week. Amy and Brendon are both fantastic instructors, they create such a positive and encouraging environment for everyone.
It’s especially great to see both kids and adults training together, it builds a strong sense of community and keeps everyone motivated. You can really see the impact it has, not just on skills but on confidence and enthusiasm too.
Highly recommend to anyone looking for a supportive and motivating place to train.
J V
The Karate class at this club is great for us – good for health, good for confidence and a good workout, always feeling so well after the training. We learn a lot here and value the friendly atmosphere.
H LP
The Adult Pathway — Where Training Takes You
Beginner → Coloured Belts → Black Belt → Competitor → Instructor → Black Belt grades beyond
The pathway is the same for adults as it is for anyone else — it just starts wherever you are right now. We have students who began training in their 20s and are now instructors. We have students who began in their 40s and have earned black belts. We have students who began as complete beginners and now coach tournament teams.
There is no age limit on this pathway. There is no fitness prerequisite. There is no point at which it becomes too late. The only requirement is that you start.
- White belt — no experience, no fitness, no problem
- Coloured belt progression — every 3 months for students who are ready
- Black belt — typically 4-6 years of consistent training
- Competition — optional but available at every level from club to international
- Summer camp — annual residential training event for adults and children
- Further black belt grades — the journey beyond 1st Dan for those who continue
- Instructor pathway — for those who want to give back and teach
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Our Sandwich Instuctor Team
“At Kudos Martial Arts, you’ll train with some of Kent’s most experienced and dedicated Kyokushin instructors. Our senior teaching team brings decades of combined martial arts experience, advanced black belt qualifications, and a genuine passion for helping students of all ages achieve their goals. Each instructor undergoes continuous professional development, and understands how to make traditional Kyokushin training both challenging and accessible.
Whether you’re a complete beginner taking your first steps in martial arts, a parent looking for quality instruction for your child, or a dedicated student pursuing black belt, our instructors provide expert guidance, individual attention, and the support you need to succeed. They don’t just teach techniques—they mentor, inspire, and create an environment where every student can discover their potential through authentic karate training.”
Shihan Paul
7th Dan Black Belt
I started Kyokushin Karate just over 40 year ago. I am the head instuctor of Kudos Martial Arts and the founder of the IKK International Karate Kyokushinkaikan. My life has been sharing skills and knowledge of Kyokushin Karate to inspire others to be good and strong people.
Shihan Russell
5th Dan Black Belt
I am Shihan Russell Wilson I have over 40 years of experience in karate and martial arts holding 5th Dan in karate along with several additional Dan grade in other styles. I have dedicated my life to developing my own skills and those of others.
Throughout my journey I have taken part and competing in various competitions and served as referee as well as completing a wide range of training courses to further my knowledge. My passion for martial arts is matched by my commitment to teaching others with over 20 years of teaching guiding students of all ages and abilities.
I take great pride in helping students progress from beginners to achieving their 1st Dan. While the achievement belongs to the student i share in their success, confidence the smile on their face and a sense of accomplishment.
Senpai Chris
1st Dan Black Belt
I Started in 2006 after taking my son Marcus for a couple of weeks , loved Jean Claude van damne films so thought I’d give it a go , 20 years later I’m 2nd Dan & going for 3rd this year, been teaching for the last 5 years , it’s great watching the kids develop from the things I teach them & I’ve made some great friends in the IKK , osu 👊
Sensei Mel
3rd Dan Black Belt
I started my Karate journey in 2012 after years of watching my son training. I never thought I would do a grading little alone be able to reach 3rd Dan, Sensei.
I have taught on and off over the years but regularly now at Sandwich. I have competed in few competitions over the years and enjoyed the summer camps. Watching the progression of students is rewarding and being part of their journey is a pleasure.
Kudos is more than a karate club, it is like family with friendships that have lasted for many years. We all share the same passion for martial arts, and I feel privilidged to be a small part of our club.
Shihan Ian
5th Dan Black Belt
I have been training since 2006. The discipline of karate has had a massive impact on my life by developing fitness, confidence, strength and courage. I enjoy teaching karate as I have seen that learning this discipline has a real positive impact on the students’ lives as they learn, develop and improve.
Senpai Geoff
1st Dan Black Belt
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Google Reviews
Read our Google Reviews from our students and families.
Sandwich Adult Achievement
Emma Brice — Student of the Year 2026
Emma Brice was announced as our overall Student of the Year for 2025 — a recognition of her dedicated training, outstanding tournament success, and remarkable fundraising efforts. Emma earned her 1st Dan black belt in December 2025 at the age of 47. She trains alongside her daughter Kadi — who represented England at international level this year — and between them they represent exactly what Kudos Martial Arts is about: genuine dedication, genuine achievement, and a shared passion for the art that brings families together.
Martial Arts and Karate Blog
Kyokushin Full Contact Knockdown Tournaments
In the world of martial arts competitions, few events command the respect and awe of Kyokushin knockdown tournaments. These full-contact karate competitions represent the ultimate test of technique, physical conditioning, mental toughness, and fighting spirit. For…
What Actually Is ‘Martial Arts’?
You’ve heard the term countless times. You’ve seen martial arts in films, watched competitions, or perhaps know someone who practices. But what actually is ‘martial arts’? The answer is richer and more complex than most people realize. Far from being simply ‘fighting…
The History of Kyokushin Karate
Kyokushin karate stands as one of the most formidable and respected martial arts in the world. Known for its rigorous training methods, full-contact sparring, and emphasis on physical and mental strength, Kyokushin has shaped generations of martial artists across the…
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Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about martial arts training at Kudos? Here are answers to the most common questions we receive from prospective students and parents. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Contact us directly and we’ll be happy to help.
Martial Arts FAQ Section
Am I too old to start?
No. In December 2025 alone, David earned his 1st Dan black belt at 56, Geoff at 57, and John earned his 3rd Dan at 59. Phil and Glenys both graded to 2nd Dan in their 50s on the same day.
We have students who started training in their 40s and 50s and have never looked back. The only person who decides you’re too old is you — and we’d respectfully suggest you reconsider.
I'm not fit enough — should I get fit before I start?
No — and this is one of the most common misconceptions about martial arts.
You get fit through training, not before it. Our adult classes are progressive and your fitness develops naturally alongside your technique.
Within a few weeks most new adult students notice real improvements in stamina, strength, and energy levels. Start where you are. That’s exactly the right place to begin.
Is Kyokushin too tough or dangerous for recreational adult training?
Kyokushin has a well-earned reputation for being demanding — and that’s one of the reasons adults choose it. However all training is progressive and appropriate to your level. New adult students develop technique and fitness before any contact work is introduced. Crucially, Kyokushin prohibits face punching — meaning you develop genuine full contact skills without the repeated face punches that makes boxing and MMA a worry for recreational practitioners. All the toughness, none of the unnecessary risk.
I'm interested in MMA or BJJ — why should I consider Kyokushin?
Kyokushin is the striking foundation that many of the world’s greatest MMA fighters built their careers on — including Georges St-Pierre, widely considered the greatest MMA champion of all time. It develops explosive striking power, elite conditioning, mental toughness, and genuine full contact competition experience. Unlike BJJ which focuses on ground fighting, Kyokushin keeps you on your feet with the complete striking arsenal. Unlike boxing, it protects your head. It also comes with something combat sports gyms rarely offer: a genuine community, a traditional structure, a clear progression system, and a pathway that keeps developing for decades.
Is this suitable for women?
Absolutely — and we actively encourage women to join. We have many female students across all our adult classes and our clubs are inclusive, respectful, and welcoming. For women especially, the self-defence capability, physical confidence, and mental resilience that develops through Kyokushin training is genuinely life-changing. Our Student of the Year 2025 was Emma Brice — a 47 year old mother, competitor, fundraiser, and newly graded 1st Dan black belt. She is a brilliant example of what adult female training at Kudos looks like.
Can I compete in tournaments as an adult?
Yes — and our adult students compete at every level. This year our adult competitors took part in the Irish Open in Dublin, the BKK English Open, the BKK Open at Crystal Palace, the Haito Kata Tournament in Peterborough, and the Invictus Interclub in Croydon. Competition is always optional — many adult students train purely for fitness, self-defence, and the love of the art with no interest in competing, and that’s completely fine. But if you want to compete, the opportunity, the coaching, and the team are all here.
I'm not very fit or confident — will I cope?
You don’t need to be fit or confident to start — you become both through training. Some of our most successful competitors started as nervous, unfit beginners who weren’t sure karate was for them. The fitness builds naturally, and the confidence follows the achievement. Show up consistently and the results take care of themselves. That’s not marketing — that’s 30 years of watching it happen.
How long does it take to earn a black belt as an adult?
The journey to 1st Dan black belt typically takes four to six years of consistent training. Gradings take place every three months for students who are ready. The belt is a genuine achievement — earned through consistent effort, technical development, and demonstrated ability. It is not given, not rushed, and not guaranteed. That’s exactly what makes it worth having.
I used to train years ago — can I come back?
Absolutely — returning students are always welcome. Depending on how long you’ve been away and your previous grade, we’ll assess where you’re at and integrate you back into training at the appropriate level. Many of our most dedicated students are returners who discovered they missed it more than they expected. Whatever brought you back — welcome home.
What should I wear to my first class?
Comfortable athletic clothing is perfect for your trial class — a t-shirt and tracksuit bottoms or shorts. We train barefoot so no special footwear needed. Please remove all jewellery and tie back long hair. Once you join, a karate gi (uniform) is available to purchase separately — we’ll advise you on sizing and options when you sign up.
How do I book my trial class?
Choose your preferred location and day from the options on this page and use the booking calendar to secure your place. All new students must book in advance. Your trial class costs £15 — no commitment, no pressure. Come and experience it for yourself. Most people who come for a trial come back the following week.
Why Kyokushin?
Kyokushin means Ultimate Truth. It is one of the world’s most demanding and respected martial arts — bare knuckle, full contact, and built on the principle that genuine training produces genuine results.
Our adult students range from 18 to nearly 60. Some started in their teens and never stopped. Some started after their children began training. Some started in their 40s or 50s and earned black belts that the younger version of themselves would never have believed possible. All of them have one thing in common: they started.
With 20 years serving Sandwich and East Kent — and an instructor team that includes some of the most experienced Kyokushin practitioners in Kent — we offer adult martial arts training that is authentic, challenging, progressive, and completely welcoming to everyone who walks through the door.