Business Details
39 Years
experience
Your Trusted Karate Academy in Lanarkshire
Established in 1987, Kihonkai Karate Acdemy has been delivering authentic progressive Shotokan Karate across Lanarkshire for over three decades. As the founding member of KWF Scotland and affiliated with the Karatenomichi World Federation, we specialise in traditional Budo Karate, guided by Chief Instructor Stevie Mason, a 7th Dan KWF and internationally recognised instructor. Our classes cater to all ages, from Little Ninjas (5-7 years) to adult practitioners, with a focus on developing speed, power, and discipline through structured training. Our fully qualified instructors, including members of the KWF Supreme Shihankai, provide expert tuition in a welcoming environment that fosters personal growth and community. We offer free trial classes to help newcomers experience our proven training methods, which combine self-defence techniques with core values like respect, focus, and physical fitness.With multiple venues across East Kilbride, Motherwell, Rutherglen, and Bellshill, we have produced generations of skilled karateka while maintaining our commitment to traditional martial arts principles. Our affiliation with the Karatenomichi World Federation under Grand Master Mikio Yahara ensures our students receive globally recognised instruction. Whether you're a complete novice or an experienced practitioner, our family-friendly approach ensures accessible training tailored to individual progress. The academy's achievements include parliamentary recognition for Stevie Mason's Saiko Shihan title, reflecting our dedication to excellence in karate education.
Services
Karate Classes
Little Ninjas Karate
Children's Karate
Adult Karate
KWF Karate
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- Founding member of KWF Scotland with 35+ years of authentic Shotokan Karate instruction
- Chief Instructor holds 7th Dan KWF and Saiko Shihan (Supreme Master) title
- Free trial classes available for complete beginners of all ages
- Qualified international referees and examiners teach proven training methods
- Family-friendly environment with structured programmes for all age groups
Associations and certifications
- Karatenomichi World Federation (KWF)
- Sports Scotland
What people say
Part of the family
Great confidence
Supportive team
Technical knowledge
Quality family time
Services
Little Ninjas Karate
Structured martial arts programme for 5-7 year olds focusing on fundamental skills. Emphasises fun activities to develop self-confidence, discipline, and motor skills through safe, supervised training. Graduates transition to main karate classes at age 7 with foundational knowledge of traditional techniques.
Children's Karate
Specialised instruction for 7-11 year olds building on basic karate principles. Combines physical development with character education, teaching respect, concentration, and self-defence techniques. Small group tuition ensures individual progress tracking and safe skill advancement.
Adult Karate Classes
Comprehensive karate training for adults of all experience levels. Develops physical fitness, self-defence capabilities, and mental focus through traditional Shotokan techniques. Classes accommodate both recreational practitioners and those pursuing competitive grading pathways.
KWF Karate
Official Karatenomichi World Federation curriculum taught by certified instructors. Follows standardised grading systems and competition frameworks with emphasis on authentic Budo Karate principles. Includes access to international seminars and examinations.
Family Karate
Multi-generational karate classes designed for family participation. Combines technical instruction with relationship-building through shared martial arts practice. Encourages mutual support and development of core values across different age groups.
People
Stevie Mason
Chief Instructor & Founder
7th Dan KWF and Saiko Shihan titleholder with 35+ years of experience. Founded Kihonkai Karate Acdemy in 1987 and serves as National Director for KWF Scotland. Trained under Master Kenosuke Enoeda and Grand Master Mikio Yahara.
John McLaughlin
Assistant Chief Instructor
5th Dan KWF with over 25 years teaching experience. Qualified international referee and examiner specialising in children's and adult karate instruction at Rutherglen Dojo.
Scott Easson
Squad Coach
4th Dan KWF and former European Championship team member. Specialises in competitive Kumite training while teaching foundational skills to junior members.
Rob Probin
Instructor
3rd Dan KWF with expertise in children's karate instruction. Teaches at East Kilbride Dojo with focus on creating engaging learning environments for young practitioners.
Heather Mcfarlane
Instructor
1st Dan KWF specialising in early childhood martial arts education. Provides tailored instruction for youngest members at Bellshill and Motherwell Dojos.
Questions
What age groups do your karate classes cater to?
We offer programmes for ages 5-7 (Little Ninjas), 7-11 (Children's Karate), and 16+ (Adult & Family Karate classes at multiple locations.
Do you offer free trial classes for beginners?
Yes, we provide free trial sessions for all age groups to experience our teaching methods before committing to regular training.
What qualifications do your instructors hold?
Our instructors hold KWF ranks from 1st to 7th Dan, with international referee and examiner qualifications. Chief Instructor Stevie Mason is a Saiko Shihan titleholder.
How does your grading system work?
We follow the KWF standardised system with regular examinations. Beginners start at white belt progressing through coloured belts to black belt and beyond.
Are your classes suitable for complete novices?
Yes, our structured programmes accommodate complete beginners with dedicated beginners' classes and experienced instructors guiding each step.
What locations do you operate from?
We have dojos in East Kilbride, Motherwell, Rutherglen, and Bellshill with multiple weekly sessions across these venues.
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