Kudos Martial Arts
More than martial arts – we develop confidence, discipline and
character for life through karate
This isn’t after-school karate. This is the real thing
Teenage Martial Arts & Karate Classes in
Canterbury, Folkestone, Sandwich & Aylesham
A Long Established and
Credible Martial Arts School
For Teenage Boys & Girls Seeking Quality Martial Arts Training
For ages 12 to 17 years old.
If you’re a teenager looking for something real — something that actually challenges you, builds genuine confidence, and prepares you for the world beyond school — you’ve found it.
And before you read any further, something important: this is not just for the sporty ones. It’s not just for the confident ones, the strong ones, or the ones who already know what they’re doing. In fact, most of the teenagers who walk through our door for the first time are quiet, shy, unsure of themselves, and convinced they’re not the type of person who does martial arts. They’re wrong — and within weeks, they know it.
Karate has a way of finding something in people that nothing else does. We’ve seen it hundreds of times. The teenager who barely spoke in their first class becomes the one encouraging everyone else six months later. The one who said they weren’t sporty runs rings around people twice their size a year in. The shy one who almost didn’t come becomes the competitor who steps onto a tournament mat and surprises themselves completely. This is what Kyokushin does. This is what we do.
Kudos Martial Arts offers teenage Kyokushin karate classes across four Kent locations: Canterbury, Folkestone, Sandwich, and Aylesham. This isn’t a watered-down teen activity programme. From day one, our teenagers train alongside adults — experienced martial artists, black belts, and dedicated competitors who raise the standard of every session and provide the kind of inspiration and challenge you simply don’t get in an age-segregated class. You are taken seriously here. Whatever your starting point.
Our teenagers don’t just train. They compete — at club, regional, national, European, and World Championship level. They represent their clubs, their county, and their country. They become coaches and mentors. And they develop the kind of mental toughness, physical conditioning, and unshakeable self-belief that stays with them for life.
This year, two of our students represented Great Britain at the KWF World Knockdown Tournament in Spain. Another represented England vs Wales at international level. Our entire team placed at the Irish Open in Dublin. Multiple students placed at national level across several tournaments. And throughout it all, our newer students — many of whom arrived nervous, quiet, and unsure — were taking their first steps into competition, earning their own results, making their own memories, and starting their own journeys.
Every single one of those World Championship students started exactly where you are now. A white belt. A first class. A door they nearly didn’t walk through.
This is Kudos Martial Arts. This is what’s possible. And it starts with you — exactly as you are.
Not Your Average Teen Martial Arts — This is Kyokushin
Why teenagers are choosing Kyokushin over MMA, BJJ, and kickboxing
Scroll through social media and you’ll see teenagers drawn to MMA, BJJ, boxing, and kickboxing — and we understand why. These disciplines have genuine credibility, exciting profiles, and real competitive scenes. But before you choose, there’s something you should know about Kyokushin.
Kyokushin karate is the striking foundation that some of the world’s greatest MMA fighters built their careers on. It is bare knuckle. It is full contact. It is genuinely one of the most physically demanding striking arts on the planet. Georges St-Pierre — one of the greatest MMA champions of all time — trained Kyokushin. Andy Hug, legendary K-1 champion, was a Kyokushin fighter. This is not the karate you’ve seen in movies.
What makes Kyokushin different:
- Full contact striking — powerful body shots, leg kicks, genuine knockdown competition
- No face punching — bare knuckle rules protect you from the repeated head trauma that boxing and MMA normalise
- Complete striking system — not just hands or just grappling, but the full arsenal of striking weapons
- Mental toughness tradition — Kyokushin fighters are known worldwide for extraordinary conditioning and fighting spirit
- Real competition — club, regional, national, European, and World level tournaments
- Traditional structure — the discipline, respect, and progression that combat sports gyms often lack
All the credibility. All the contact. All the toughness.
Not Your Average Teen Martial Arts — This is Kyokushin
Why teenagers are choosing Kyokushin over MMA, BJJ, and kickboxing
Scroll through social media and you’ll see teenagers drawn to MMA, BJJ, boxing, and kickboxing — and we understand why. These disciplines have genuine credibility, exciting profiles, and real competitive scenes. But before you choose, there’s something you should know about Kyokushin.
Kyokushin karate is the striking foundation that some of the world’s greatest MMA fighters built their careers on. It is bare knuckle. It is full contact. It is genuinely one of the most physically demanding striking arts on the planet. Georges St-Pierre — one of the greatest MMA champions of all time — trained Kyokushin. Andy Hug, legendary K-1 champion, was a Kyokushin fighter. This is not the karate you’ve seen in movies.
What makes Kyokushin different:
- Full contact striking — powerful body shots, leg kicks, genuine knockdown competition
- No face punching — bare knuckle rules protect you from the repeated head trauma that boxing and MMA normalise
- Complete striking system — not just hands or just grappling, but the full arsenal of striking weapons
- Mental toughness tradition — Kyokushin fighters are known worldwide for extraordinary conditioning and fighting spirit
- Real competition — club, regional, national, European, and World level tournaments
- Traditional structure — the discipline, respect, and progression that combat sports gyms often lack
All the credibility. All the contact. All the toughness.
Training With Adults — Our Biggest Advantage
Most teen martial arts classes keep teenagers in a bubble. We don’t
At Kudos Martial Arts, our teenage students train alongside adult members — experienced martial artists, black belts, seasoned competitors, and dedicated instructors. This is not by accident. It is one of the most powerful aspects of our programme.
When you train with people who are better than you, you improve faster. When you train alongside adults who have competed for years, you absorb their knowledge, their mindset, and their standards. When experienced black belts take you seriously as a training partner — not as a junior to be handled carefully — you rise to the level they expect.
- Train alongside adult black belts and experienced competitors from day one
- Access to the most experienced instructor team in the room — every session
- Elevated standards — you train to the level of the room, not just your age group
- Real mentoring — adults who’ve been where you are and can show you exactly where training leads
- Natural pathway — from new teen member to competitor to coach, all within the same community
What Teenagers Learn in Our Kyokushin Classes
Our teenage programme follows the full Kyokushin syllabus — the same authentic curriculum that has produced champions at every level of the sport
Physical Development
- Full Kyokushin striking system — punches, kicks, knee strikes, and blocks
- Exceptional cardiovascular fitness and stamina
- Functional strength and explosive power
- Flexibility, agility, and body control
- Bag work, pad work, and controlled partner training
- Competition preparation — sparring, technique, and fight strategy
Mental Toughness
- Training through discomfort and fatigue — the foundation of mental resilience
- Competition mindset — preparation, focus, and performing under pressure
- Discipline and consistency — showing up and working hard even when you don’t feel like it
- Goal setting through belt progression and tournament targets
- Emotional control — staying calm and composed under pressure
- Confidence that comes from genuine achievement, not participation
Real Self-Defence
- Practical striking skills that work in real-world situations
- Awareness and situational confidence
- Physical capability and mental composure to handle threatening situations
- Confidence that reduces the likelihood of being targeted in the first place
- The maturity to know when to use skills — and when not to
Character and Life Skills
- Respect for instructors, training partners, and opponents
- Perseverance through genuine challenge
- Humility in victory and resilience in defeat
- Leadership — the opportunity to mentor younger students
- Commitment and accountability to yourself and your team
- A community that supports and challenges you in equal measure
<back>
Our Venues
Find Your Nearest Martial Arts School
Quality martial arts training is closer than you think. Kudos Martial Arts operates four friendly clubs across Kent, each offering the same high standard of Kyokushin instruction in safe, welcoming environments. Select your nearest location below to view class times, meet our instructors, and book your trial class.
Find your class — and discover what you’re capable of.
Canterbury
30 years of Kyokushin excellence. Multiple venues, multiple days. Home to Team GB representatives Charlie and Nieve, and England representative Kadi.
Canterbury’s original and longest established martial arts school
Folkestone
Over 25 years serving Folkestone and the coastal communities.
Home to national and European level competitors with a proud tradition of producing dedicated fighters and champions
Sandwich
Two convenient venues on Deal Road.
20 years of excellence in East Kent with a strong competition tradition and a welcoming community for new and experienced students alike
Aylesham
A close-knit, dedicated club serving Aylesham and surrounding villages.
Training with exceptional individual attention from experienced instructors
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 Kudos Pathway — Where Training Takes You
Teenager → Competitor → Champion → England Representative → Team GB → Coach → Instructor
This isn’t a theoretical pathway. Every step of it has been walked by our students this year alone. Kadi went from club competitor to England representative. Charlie and Nieve went from training partners to Team GB. Martin went from competitor to tournament coach. The pathway is real — and it’s open to every teenager who walks through our door.
- Start as a complete beginner — white belt, no experience needed
- Progress through the coloured belt system at your own pace
- Enter your first tournament when you’re ready — on your terms
- Compete at club, regional, national, and international level
- Represent England — as our students have done this year
- Represent Great Britain — as our students have done this year
- Become a mentor and coach to the next generation
- Earn your black belt — one of the most respected achievements in martial arts
<back>
Our Senior Instructors at Kudos Martial Arts
“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
Shihan Mike
7th Dan
Shihan Russell
5th Dan
Shihan Amy
5th Dan
Shihan Bob
5th Dan
Shihan Ian
5th Dan
Sensei Andy
4th Dan
Sensei John
3rd Dan
<back>
Google Reviews
Read our Google Reviews from our students and families.
Our Tournament Record — Proof of What’s Possible
This year alone, our students have competed from club level all the way to World Championship — and the results speak for themselves
KWF World Knockdown Tournament, Spain — World Championship
The pinnacle of Kyokushin competition. This year, Charlie and Nieve were selected to represent Great Britain as part of Team GB at the KWF World Knockdown Tournament in Spain — one of the most prestigious full contact karate events in the world. Being selected to represent your country at a World Championship is an extraordinary achievement. These are students from our clubs in Kent. This is what training with Kudos Martial Arts can lead to.
England vs Wales — International Representative
Kadi was selected to represent England on the national clicker team in the England vs Wales event — competing at international representative level and loving every moment of it. From club competitor to national representative, Kadi’s journey is one of the most inspiring stories our club has produced.
Irish Open, Dublin — European Championship
Our team travelled to Dublin for the Irish Open — one of Europe’s premier Kyokushin knockdown competitions. The result? Every single one of our competitors placed. Emma, Nieve, Kadi, Lara, Martin, Charlie, Gemma, and Olivia all returned from Dublin with results — a clean sweep at European level.
BKK English Open, Reading — National Championship
At one of the UK’s most prestigious Kyokushin tournaments, Bridgette, Alfie, Olivia, Charlie, Nieve, Lara, Gemma, Anthony, and Darwin all placed. Martin stepped into a coaching role and Kadi provided invaluable team support — demonstrating the natural progression from competitor to team leader.
BKK Open, Crystal Palace — National
Lara earned 2nd place after courageously competing up a weight category when her own category was empty — a testament to her fighting spirit and adaptability. Harry claimed 3rd place in his first ever big tournament experience, finishing his last fight in just 38 seconds. Extraordinary results from two outstanding competitors.
Haito Kata Tournament, Peterborough — National
Helen, Martha, Steven, Grace, Deagon, and Gemma competed at the Haito Kata Tournament — for most of them their first experience of an external tournament. They returned with three 2nd places and three 3rd places across two categories each. A remarkable debut for a team of first timers.
Haito Novice Knockdown Tournament — Regional
A team of seven competed at the Haito Novice Knockdown tournament — for most, their very first competitive experience. They fought hard, supported each other through every round, and came away with the experience, friendships, and hunger to compete again.
Invictus Interclub, Croydon — Regional
Eleven of our students competed at the Invictus Interclub — a brilliant mixed experience for seasoned fighters and first timers alike. Events like these build the competitive mindset and tournament experience that separates serious martial artists from recreational ones.
Club → Regional → National → European → World → Team GB. The pathway is open to everyone
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…
<back>
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
I've never done martial arts before — can I join as a complete beginner?
Absolutely — and most of our teenage students start with zero experience. Our instructors are experienced at welcoming complete beginners and will guide you through everything from the basics up. You don’t need to be fit, coordinated, or experienced. You just need to turn up and be willing to try. Everything else follows from there.
Will I be training with much younger children?
No, unless it is a family class, where the younger children have thier own group.
Our teenage students (ages 12-17) train alongside adults in the main class — not with younger children. This is one of the things that makes our programme so effective. Training with experienced adults raises your standard faster than any age-segregated teen class. Our adult members are welcoming and supportive of new younger students, and most teens find the environment motivating rather than intimidating.
Is Kyokushin too tough or dangerous for teenagers?
Kyokushin has a well-earned reputation for being demanding and full contact — and we don’t apologise for that. However, all training is progressive and age-appropriate. New teenage students begin by developing technique, fitness, and understanding before contact work is introduced. Kyokushin prohibits face punching, protecting teenagers from the repeated head trauma that boxing and MMA normalise. Full contact work is introduced gradually with proper protective equipment and close supervision.
I'm interested in MMA or BJJ — why should I consider Kyokushin?
Many of the world’s greatest MMA fighters built their foundations on Kyokushin — including Georges St-Pierre, one of the greatest champions of all time. Kyokushin 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 you from repeated headshots. It’s the striking art that serious fighters respect — with the added structure, progression, and community that some combat sports gyms rarely offer.
Can I compete in tournaments?
Yes — and our teenagers compete at the very highest levels. This year our students competed at club, regional, national, European, and World Championship level. Charlie and Nieve represented Great Britain at the KWF World Tournament in Spain. Kadi represented England vs Wales. Our entire team placed at the Irish Open in Dublin. Lara won 2nd place at Crystal Palace, Harry won 3rd in his first ever big tournament. Competition is always optional — but if you want to compete, we have the team, the coaches, and the track record to take you as far as your ambition will carry you.
Is karate good for teenage girls as well as boys?
Absolutely. Some of our most successful competitors are young women. Emma, Nieve, Kadi, Lara, Gemma, Olivia, Helen, Martha, and Grace have all competed successfully this year at national and European level. Kadi represented England at international level. Charlie and Nieve represented Great Britain at the World Championship. Kyokushin is one of the most empowering activities a teenage girl can take up — developing physical confidence, genuine self-defence skills, and mental resilience that lasts a lifetime.
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 quickly will I progress through the belts?
Progression depends on your consistency and effort — and we wouldn’t have it any other way. Gradings take place every three months for students who are ready. Most dedicated teenage students progress at a satisfying pace, with the journey to black belt typically taking four to six years. The belt is a marker of genuine achievement — earned, not given.
What should I wear to my first class?
For your trial class, comfortable athletic clothing is perfect — a t-shirt and tracksuit bottoms or shorts work well. We train barefoot so no special footwear is needed. Please remove all jewellery and tie back long hair before class.
Once you join, you’ll be able to purchase your karate gi (uniform).
How do I book a trial class?
Choose your preferred location and click through to the location page. Select your preferred day and venue and use the booking calendar to secure your trial class date. All new students must book in advance. Your trial class costs just £10 — no commitment, no pressure. Come and experience it for yourself.