Business Details
46 Years
experience
Your Trusted Martial Arts Academy in Birmingham
Zen-shin Martial Arts Academy, established in 1980, is a family-run martial arts academy dedicated to fostering physical, emotional, and social development through traditional Shotokan Karate and Kickboxing. Our mission is to empower students to achieve success in life by cultivating discipline, self-control, and resilience. With over four decades of experience, we provide structured training for all ages, from children as young as five to adults, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment. Our instructors, many of whom hold advanced black belt qualifications, combine technical expertise with a commitment to personal growth. We emphasize the values of respect, perseverance, and community, reflected in our students' achievements and testimonials.Our affiliation with the English Karate Federation underscores our adherence to high standards. Facilities include multiple dojos across Birmingham, equipped with matted floors and training equipment, accommodating diverse classes and events. We also host educational visits and birthday parties, extending our community engagement beyond martial arts. Our team's extensive competition experience and teaching credentials reinforce our reputation as a trusted local institution. Through tailored programs, we address individual needs, including students with disabilities, demonstrating our inclusive approach.
Services
Karate Classes
Kickboxing Training
Children's Martial Arts
Adult Karate
Family Sessions
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- Family-run academy with 40+ years of experience in traditional martial arts
- Instructors include 9th Dan Kyoshi John Richards and certified black belts
- Proven track record in adapting training for students with special needs
- Multiple Birmingham locations with purpose-built training facilities
- Holistic approach combining physical training with character development
Associations and certifications
- English Karate Federation (EKF)
What people say
Professional and friendly team
Improved children's confidence
Supportive environment for special needs
Expertise in traditional karate
Positive life-changing impact
Services
Karate Classes
Traditional Shotokan Karate instruction for ages 5+. Develops discipline, physical fitness, and self-defence skills. Structured belt system tracks progress with regular grading exams. Classes focus on kata (forms), kumite (sparring), and kihon (basics).
Kickboxing Training
Adult and teen kickboxing classes combining cardio workout with martial arts techniques. Improves strength, coordination, and stamina. Teaches practical self-defence while promoting stress relief and weight management.
Children's Karate
Specialised classes for 4-11 year olds. Enhances motor skills, listening ability, and confidence. Uses games and structured activities to teach karate basics while promoting social development and focus.
Adult Karate
Karate instruction for adults of all experience levels. Combines physical conditioning with technical skill development. Emphasises practical self-defence applications and mental discipline through traditional training methods.
Family Sessions
Multi-generational martial arts classes. Allows families to train together while learning at individual skill levels. Builds shared discipline and provides quality time through structured karate instruction.
People
Kyoshi John Richards
Founder & Chief Instructor
9th Dan black belt with 40+ years experience. Internationally recognised instructor who has taught seminars worldwide. Specialises in Shotokan Karate and multiple martial arts disciplines. Leads Birmingham-based academy with family team.
Melanie Richards
Operations Manager
3rd Dan black belt with 30+ years involvement in martial arts. Coordinates academy operations and teaches classes. Combines administrative leadership with hands-on instruction experience across multiple Birmingham locations.
Sensei Jumoke Richards
Senior Instructor
Experienced karate instructor and 4th Dan black belt. Specialises in kata instruction and competition preparation. Develops digital resources for student training and manages online presence for the academy.
Sensei Abian Richards
Senior Instructor
4th Dan black belt with 25+ years experience. Former WKA World Champion in kumite. Combines traditional karate instruction with modern fitness training methods. Teaches at Zen-Shin studios and Digbeth academy.
Sensei Afiya Richards
Project Manager & Instructor
4th Dan black belt with expertise in karate and yoga instruction. Manages administrative operations while teaching classes. Specialises in working with younger students and promoting Japanese cultural understanding.
Questions
What martial arts do you teach?
We teach traditional Shotokan Karate and Kickboxing for children aged 5+ and adults.
Are beginners welcome?
Yes, all classes cater to complete beginners with progressive skill development.
Do you offer family discounts?
We provide discounted rates for multiple family members attending classes.
Can children with disabilities participate?
Yes, our instructors adapt training methods to accommodate various needs.
What facilities do you have?
We have multiple dojos with matted floors, training equipment, and air conditioning.
Do you host special events?
Yes, we organise grading exams, kata workshops, and community events throughout the year.
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