Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Martial Arts Training in Mirfield for All Ages
Established in 1975, Mirfield Martial Arts is a not-for-profit community organisation based in Mirfield, West Yorkshire. We specialise in traditional martial arts instruction, including Aikido, Judo, Jiu Jitsu, and Karate, catering to both adults and children. Our volunteer-run structure ensures accessibility without contracts or hidden fees, prioritising student development over commercial interests. All instructors are DBS-checked, fully insured, and hold black belt qualifications recognised by respected UK Budo Associations. We focus on building confidence, discipline, and practical self-defence skills through expert tuition in a safe, inclusive environment. Our community-driven ethos fosters lifelong friendships and personal growth, with classes designed to accommodate all skill levels.Technical Director Hanshi Vince Thompson, an 8th Dan Aikido instructor, leads a team with over 40 years of combined teaching experience. We maintain a 4.6 Trustindex rating based on verified Google reviews, reflecting our commitment to quality instruction and student satisfaction. Our facilities include a dedicated dojo at Station Business Park, offering flexible training options for individuals and families. As a volunteer-led organisation, we reinvest resources directly into improving training quality and accessibility for local participants.
Services
Aikido Instruction
Judo Classes
Jiu Jitsu Training
Karate Lessons
Junior Martial Arts
Senior Martial Arts
Self-Defence Courses
Fitness Development
Discipline Training
Confidence Building
Details
- Year established: 1975
Highlights and features
- We are a volunteer-run, not-for-profit club with no hidden fees or contracts
- All instructors are DBS-checked black belt practitioners with decades of experience
- Offering multiple martial arts disciplines including Aikido, Judo and Karate
- Community-focused environment supporting students of all ages and abilities
- Maintaining a 4.6 Trustindex rating from verified Google reviews
What people say
Very friendly and welcoming club
Great for children's confidence
Top class instruction
Professional support available
Learned loads already
Services
Aikido Instruction
Traditional Aikido training focusing on flow and control techniques. Classes cater to all levels from beginners to advanced practitioners. Develops physical coordination, mental focus, and practical self-defence capabilities while promoting philosophical understanding of non-resistance principles.
Junior Martial Arts
Specialised martial arts programmes for children aged 6-13. Combines physical development with character building through structured lessons. Teaches respect, discipline, and age-appropriate self-defence techniques in a safe, engaging environment with DBS-checked instructors.
Self-Defence Courses
Practical self-defence instruction covering real-world scenarios. Emphasises situational awareness and de-escalation techniques alongside physical defence methods. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels with adaptable techniques for different body types.
Fitness Development
Martial arts-based fitness programmes improving strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. Combines traditional techniques with conditioning exercises. Promotes holistic wellness through physical activity accessible to all ability levels.
Discipline Training
Structured martial arts instruction fostering personal discipline and mental resilience. Incorporates traditional dojo etiquette and progressive goal setting. Develops perseverance and focus transferable to academic, professional, and personal life contexts.
People
Vince Thompson
Chief Instructor
8th Dan Hanshi and founder of Mirfield Martial Arts. Has taught martial arts in West Yorkshire since 1975. Specialises in traditional Aikido instruction while overseeing technical standards across all disciplines.
Roger Bawcutt
Senior Instructor
7th Dan Aikido instructor with over 40 years' experience. Focuses on precision in traditional techniques. Leads senior classes while mentoring students to develop technical proficiency and martial discipline.
Mark Warburton
Club Secretary
5th Dan Aikido instructor specialising in traditional techniques. Manages club administration while teaching regular classes. Emphasises personal development through martial arts practice.
Stephen Moore
Club Chairman
5th Dan Aikido instructor with extensive martial arts experience. Oversees club operations while teaching beginner-friendly sessions. Promotes community engagement through accessible martial arts training.
Kelsey Bates
Instructor
1st Dan Aikido instructor teaching junior classes. Focuses on making martial arts accessible to children. Combines technical instruction with confidence-building exercises in a supportive learning environment.
Questions
What martial arts do you teach?
We offer Aikido, Judo, Jiu Jitsu, and Karate instruction for all ages and experience levels.
Is prior experience required?
No experience needed. Our beginner-friendly classes welcome complete novices with expert guidance.
What should I wear for my first class?
Comfortable gym clothing is suitable for initial sessions. Uniforms are available after joining.
Do you offer family discounts?
Family training options are available with flexible pricing for multiple members.
Are your instructors qualified?
All instructors are DBS-checked black belt practitioners with decades of teaching experience.
What are your class times?
We hold classes Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday evenings with specific times listed online.
