UK Karate Podcast

In this episode of the UK Karate Podcast, we sit down with Sensei Rachel Kattawar — a 5th Dan black belt with the Japan Karate Association (JKA), 6-time JKA National Kata Champion, and former Junior Olympics champion representing Team USA Rachel shares her incredible karate journey, from her early success in competition to becoming one of the leading figures in American Shotokan karate. We dive deep into the world of JKA USA, exploring the differences between the US and UK karate scenes, the realities of high-level kata competition, and what it takes to stay at the top over many years.This is a powerful conversation about discipline, longevity, and evolving with karate — while staying true to traditional values.🎯In this episode we cover:Training and competing in JKA USA🥇 What it takes to become a national kata champion🧠 The mindset behind elite performance🌍 Differences between UK and US karate💻 Teaching karate in the modern world (online & in person)🥋 Staying motivated through a lifelong karate journey🔔Follow & Support UK Karate Podcast👉 YouTube:    / @ukkaratepodcast  👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/yourlink👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...|-shotokan-traditional-karate-martial-arts/id1861484516📲Follow Sensei Rachel Kattawar(Search “Rachel Kattawar” on ‪@karateathome3752‬ for her latest training content)💬Get InvolvedWho would you like to see next on the podcast?Drop a comment below and tag them 👇🥋About UK Karate PodcastThe UK Karate Podcast brings you conversations with karateka from around the world — sharing real journeys, experiences, and insights from traditional Shotokan and beyond.#shotokan #karate #JKAKarate, #JKAUSA #kata #champions #Traditional #Podcast #ukkaratepodcast

🎙️ Podcast Interview with Matt Price | Karate, Competition, Coaching & Legacy In this special episode, we sit down with one of the UK’s most respected Shotokan karate practitioners, Matt Price, to explore an incredible journey spanning grassroots beginnings, elite competition, international success, and high-level coaching. From being told he was “one of the worst students” to becoming a dominant force in British and international karate, Matt shares honest insights, powerful lessons, and the mindset that carried him to the top.🥋 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: • How Matt went from a reluctant beginner to an elite competitor • The impact of early setbacks and how they shaped his mindset • Training under top instructors and the influence of strong dojo culture • What it takes to compete—and win—at national and international level • The mental and physical demands of excelling in both kata and kumite • Leadership lessons from captaining top-level teams • Transitioning from competitor to coach and mentor • Insights into training in Japan and achieving 7th Dan • The evolution of karate through coaching, writing, and technology • Advice for the next generation of karateka🔥 Why You Should Watch: Whether you’re a karate student, instructor, competitor, or martial arts enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable insights on discipline, resilience, leadership, and long-term growth in martial arts.📲 Follow UK Karate Podcast: • Facebook: UK Karate Podcast • Instagram: @ukkaratepodcast • Available on Spotify & Apple Podcasts

In this special episode of the UK Karate Podcast, we sit down with Sensei John Gardiner and Sensei Stuart Amos as they come together to all things karate. From decades of training and teaching to insights into Shotokan, competition, and traditional values, this episode is packed with stories, and inspiration for martial artists of all levels.Whether you’re a beginner or experienced karateka, this is a must-watch conversation with two highly respected figures in UK karate.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more karate content, interviews, and expert insights.🎧 Listen on:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0Nq7jr9...Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast...📲 Follow UK Karate Podcast:Facebook:   / ukkaratepodcast  Instagram:   / ukkaratepodcast  #Karate #Shotokan #MartialArts #UKKarate #KaratePodcast #JohnGardiner #StuartAmos #KarateTraining #MartialArtsPodcast

🥋 Interview with Sensei Roy Tomlin | UK Karate PodcastIn this episode of the UK Karate Podcast, we sit down with Sensei Roy Tomlin for a powerful conversation on karate, martial arts philosophy, leadership, and personal development.Sensei Roy Tomlin shares his journey through karate, his teaching mindset, and his views on traditional values in modern martial arts. This episode goes beyond techniques and competition — diving into mindset, discipline, resilience, and the deeper purpose of karate training.From dojo culture to instructor development, this interview delivers insight, inspiration, and practical wisdom for martial artists at every level.🎯 What you’ll hear in this episode:• Sensei Roy Tomlin’s karate journey• Teaching philosophy & student development• Traditional karate vs modern training• Leadership & legacy in martial arts• Discipline, mindset & mental strength• The future of karate in the UK🎧 Perfect for listeners who love:Karate • Martial Arts • Traditional Training • Personal Development • Leadership • Mindset • Dojo Life • UK Martial Arts#UKKaratePodcast #SenseiRoyTomlin #KaratePodcast #MartialArtsPodcast #KarateInterview #UKMartialArts #TraditionalKarate #ModernKarate #KarateLife #DojoCulture #KarateMindset #MartialArtsMindset #KaratePhilosophy #KarateTraining #KarateInstructor #KarateLeadership #MartialArtsUK #KarateCommunity #Bushido #MartialArtsLife

🥋 UK KARATE PODCAST | SEASON 3 EPISODE 1Sensei Stuart Amos – Competition, Coaching, HDKI & Karate Without BordersSeason 3 of the UK Karate Podcast begins with an in-depth conversation with Sensei Stuart Amos — international competitor, HDKI World Champion, coach, and founder of Randori & Fenikkusu Shotokan Karate Club.With over 25 years of karate experience, Sensei Amos shares his journey from starting karate at age 6, through elite international competition, to teaching karate both in person and online through Shotokan Karate Online. This episode explores the balance between traditional Shotokan karate values and modern training approaches.🔥 EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS🥋 Early Karate JourneyStarting karate as a child and early dojo cultureTraining under Linden Huckle SenseiProgression to Shodan and building strong foundationsWhen karate became a lifelong path🏆 Competition & PerformanceJoining the KUGB Squad (2012)Competing internationally and representing EnglandSuccess in team kata and lessons in teamworkCompetition mindset, preparation, and resilience🎓 Teaching & CoachingTeaching karate since the early 2000sCoaching students of all ages and abilitiesTraditional values vs modern training needsTeaching karate online vs in-person🏯 Club, Community & HDKIFounding Randori & Fenikkusu Shotokan Karate ClubCoaching children from age 4 through to adultsJoining the HDKI (2020) and training at the Hombu DojoRole as HDKI GB Northern Squad Coach🧠 Philosophy & LongevityKarate Without BordersPersonal growth, wellbeing, and mental resilienceTraining smart for long-term karate practiceFavourite kata: Unsu🎧 WHO THIS EPISODE IS FOR✔ Shotokan karate practitioners✔ Competitive karateka & instructors✔ Traditional martial artists✔ Anyone interested in lifelong karate training🔔 SUPPORT THE PODCAST👍 Like the video🔔 Subscribe to the channel💬 Comment with your key takeaway

🎙️ UK Karate Podcast – Season 2 Episode 12 | In Conversation with WTKO Chief Instructor Richard Amos SenseiWelcome back to the UK Karate Podcast!In Season 2, Episode 12, we’re honoured to sit down with Richard Amos Sensei, Chief Instructor of the World Traditional Karate Organisation (WTKO). Known globally for his precision, exceptional technical skill, and decades of dedication to traditional Shotokan Karate, Amos Sensei joins us for a deep, insightful conversation you won’t want to miss.In this episode we discuss:🥋 His journey from the UK to Japan and training at the JKA Hombu Dojo🥋 Lessons learned from senior Japanese instructors🥋 The evolution of traditional Karate and its modern challenges🥋 Technical insights into kihon, kata, and kumite🥋 The mission and growth of the WTKO worldwide🥋 Advice for instructors, students, and future generations of KaratekaWhether you are a karate student, instructor, Shotokan practitioner, or simply passionate about martial arts history and development, this episode delivers real depth, inspiration, and expert knowledge.🔔 Subscribe for more interviews, technical breakdowns, and UK martial arts conversations:👉 UK Karate Podcast – new episodes every week👍 Like, comment, and shareFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/ukkaratepodcastInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/ukkaratepodcast/Online Karate Magazine:https://budomindset.comWTKO:https://www.wtko.org/Karate IKIGAI Academyhttps://apps.apple.com/us/app/karate-ikigai-academy-intl/id6473020461Let us know your thoughts, questions, or your experience training under Richard Amos Sensei or within the WTKO.Let us know your thoughts, questions, or your experience training under Richard Amos Sensei or within the WTKO.#Karate #ShotokanKarate #WTKO #RichardAmos #KaratePodcast

🎥 John O’Neill , A Lifetime in Karate, from Liverpool to the World Stage 🥋From a 13-year-old beginner in Liverpool to an international karate champion, coach, and mentor — this is the incredible journey of John O’Neill.Starting his martial arts journey in Wado Ryu Karate, John quickly showed his dedication and passion for the art, earning his 1st Kyu before transitioning to Shotokan Karate under Sensei Tony Chin. Training six days a week, his hunger for growth took him to the legendary Red Triangle Dojo in Everton — a true test of spirit, discipline, and humility.Over the years, John evolved from a determined young fighter into one of the UK’s most accomplished karateka. His achievements include:🥇 3x Red Triangle Individual Kumite Champion🥋 5x KUGB National Team Champion🏆 KUGB Shotokan Cup U21 Champion🥈 European Silver Medalist (Finland)🥉 World Bronze Medalist (Japan)💪 Represented England and Great Britain for over a decade, competing across Europe, Japan, and Russia.John was also honoured to demonstrate alongside Sensei Enoeda at the Budokan in Japan and at the KUGB Nationals in Birmingham — a moment that became Sensei Enoeda’s final demonstration.After a 15-year break from competition, John returned with the HDKI (Hinzen Do Karate International) at age 50 — winning gold at the HDKI Nationals in the Veteran Kumite event and later securing a World Bronze Medal at the 2024 WUKF Championships in Dundee. 🥉Today, John leads Aigburth Shotokan Karate (ASK) in Liverpool, inspiring a new generation of karateka. Under his guidance, ASK students have topped national medal tables and joined national squads, carrying forward his spirit of dedication, humility, and perseverance.Outside the dojo, John works for the NHS as a Violence Reduction Specialist, holding a BSc (Hons) degree and consulting in his area of expertise. He is married to Paula, with two sons, Connah and Patrick, both sharing the family’s karate legacy.🔔 Subscribe to the channel for more inspiring martial arts stories, interviews, and training insights.👍 Like, 💬 Comment, and 📢 Share this video to celebrate the journey of one of Liverpool’s finest karate champions.#JohnONeill #KarateBiography #Shotokan #HDKI #KUGB #MartialArts #Liverpool #KarateChampion #KarateHistory #DojoLife #WUKF #AigburthShotokanKarate #KarateInspiration

🥋 Ken Hori – A Karate Journey Through Decades | Shotokan Karate PodcastIn this episode, we sit down with Ken Hori Sensei, Chief Instructor of Cambridge Karate Dojo and senior instructor within JKA WF England, to hear his remarkable karate journey spanning over 35 years. From his early days at Cambridge University Karate Club to training with legends like Sensei Enoeda, Nishiyama, Mori, Mikami, and Naka, Ken shares a story of passion, perseverance, and lifelong learning.📖 Ken Hori’s Karate JourneyPhase 1 (1987–1990): The BeginningStarted karate while studying Maths at Cambridge University.Trained under Eric Pich, graded by Bob Poynton, with Sensei Enoeda visiting termly.Became Men’s Captain, achieved Shodan in record time, and represented Cambridge with BUSA medals.Toured the USA, training with Nishiyama, Mori, Mikami, and Enoeda.Phase 2 (1990–1994): Tokyo YearsReturned to Japan as a young salaryman.Trained at a JKA dojo in Tokyo before work commitments took over.Phase 3 (1994–1998): London YearsPosted to London, trained with KUGB, and earned Nidan with Sensei Enoeda.Phase 4 (1998–2004): Back to CambridgeResumed training with Cambridge University Karate Club.Became Captain again, won numerous national medals, and earned Sandan in 2001.Represented Cambridge at Sensei Enoeda’s memorial service.Phase 5 (2005–2019): JKA England YearsJoined Oasis Shotokan Karate Club under Sensei Ohta.Became an assistant instructor, national squad coach, and international competitor.Progressed to Godan and continued winning medals nationally and internationally.Phase 6 (2014–Present): Cambridge Karate DojoFounded Cambridge Karate Dojo, now one of the largest in the city with nearly 150 members.Continued teaching through lockdowns with 179 Zoom sessions.Phase 7 (2021–Present): JKA WF EnglandCo-founded Japan Shotokan Karate England (JSKE) with Roy Tomlin.Joined JKA WF England under Sensei Kawasoe.Expanded to 9 clubs and 350+ members, regularly attending international gasshuku.Achieved Rokudan, Instructor A, Examiner B, and Referee B licences in 2024.Trains regularly with Sensei Kawasoe, Sensei Shimizu, and Sensei Naka.✨ Episode highlights:Balancing elite academics, career, and karate.Insights from training with legendary Shotokan masters.Building Cambridge Karate Dojo and helping karate flourish in the UK.How to train “tsuyoi karate” — strong karate — focusing on power, balance, and spirit.🎧 Whether you’re a student of Shotokan karate, a martial artist, or someone inspired by discipline and dedication, this episode offers valuable lessons and inspiration.👉 If you enjoy the episode, please like, comment, and subscribe for more interviews with karateka and martial arts leaders!#Karate #Shotokan #JKA #MartialArts #KaratePodcast #KenHori #CambridgeKarate #JKAEngland #KarateDojo

🎙️ Welcome to the UK Karate Podcast – Episode with Dean Hodgkin 🥋🇬🇧Welcome to the UK Karate Podcast, where we explore the journeys of karateka from all backgrounds, sharing real stories, insights, and experiences from across the karate world. This is a non-political, passion-driven platform that shines a light on the martial artists who’ve helped shape—and are still shaping—the art we love.In this special episode, we sit down with Dean Hodgkin, a true legend in English karate. Dean was a key figure in the iconic KUGB team that famously defeated Japan at the 1990 Shoto World Championships in Sunderland—clinching the final match in dramatic fashion. Dean went on to become a WSKA World Champion (individual and team), a winner of the prestigious JKA Nakayama Cup, and remains one of the most respected names in the sport. In this episode, Dean opens up about: - His early days in karate- What it was like to compete at the highest level- That legendary win over Japan- Lessons learned from the topWhether you’re a lifelong karateka or just curious about the martial arts world, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.🟥 Subscribe, like, and hit the bell to keep up with future episodes, and join us as we continue to document the untold stories of UK karate.Socials:Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/ukkaratepodcast/Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/ukkaratepodcast/#UKKaratePodcast #DeanHodgkin #KarateLegend #Shotokan #KUGB #WSKA #MartialArts #KarateJourney #KaratePodcast

In this episode of the podcast, we sit down with the incredible Chrissie Howard – a passionate martial artist, dedicated instructor, and inspiring voice in the karate community.Chrissie shares her personal journey in karate, from her early beginnings to becoming a respected figure both on and off the tatami. We dive into her experiences as a competitor, her approach to teaching, the challenges she’s overcome, and the impact karate has had on her life.🔥 Whether you’re a seasoned martial artist, a beginner, or someone who just loves hearing stories of dedication and growth, this episode has something for you!📲 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on future episodes!Socialshttps://www.facebook.com/ukkaratepodcast/https://www.instagram.com/ukkaratepodcast/🎧 Also Available on Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/0Nq7jr9fTKxDY0EFsanYHy#KaratePodcast #ChrissieHoward #MartialArts #KarateJourney #Inspiration #PodcastInterview #WomenInMartialArts

David Sensei started karate in January 1991at Newark SKC under Sensei Darren Taggart. Took his first Kyu grading with Sensei Bob Rhodes and competed at the Lincoln Open as a red belt, earning runner-up. Trained 3+ times weekly, inspired by Newark and Grantham dojos. Failed Shodan in 1994, but passed under Sensei Enoeda in Rhyl, May 1994—first black belt for my senseis. Earned Nidan in 1997. Competed until 2000, with a final silver medal in 2007. Returned in 2019 when my son Taylor started training. Joined Shotokan Connect in 2021, passed Sandan, and trained at JKA Hombu Dojo in Japan. Now teaching and pursuing Kyu examiner status. Reflecting on training, competitions, and the joy of helping others grow.https://www.facebook.com/ukkaratepodcast/https://www.instagram.com/ukkaratepodcast/https://open.spotify.com/show/0Nq7jr9fTKxDY0EFsanYHy?si=dc29b3ac15e74d97🥋 Share your karate story below!📩 Subscribe for more!#KarateJourney #ShotokanKarate #BlackBelt #Kumite #ShotokanConnect

An inspiring podcast interview with Fran Charlton, 4th Dan martial artist, Whose incredible journey transforms a tumultuous upbringing into a powerful Budo Mindset. Born into a creative yet chaotic family marked by narcissism, abuse, and neglect, Fran found strength through martial arts starting at age 11. From karate competitions to embracing aikido, overcoming malnutrition, and navigating an unexpected pregnancy, Fran’s story is one of resilience and self-discovery. Now a sports and injury therapist and founder of Budo Mindset, Don’t miss this captivating tale of healing and empowerment!🎧 Listen to the full episode:🔗 https://www.facebook.com/ukkaratepodcast/🔗https://www.instagram.com/ukkaratepodcast/🔗https://open.spotify.com/show/0Nq7jr9fTKxDY0EFsanYHy?si=9ce13abe24504a4f🔗 https://budomindset.com/In this episode, Fran discusses:• Starting karate at 11 and her journey through competition, aikido, and kung-fu• Overcoming physical and mental burnout to embrace self-care• Earning three university degrees and launching a sports therapy career• Rapid recovery from hip surgery to achieve her 4th Dan in 2020• Founding Budo Mindset and running Hagfors Chōwa Karate Club in SwedenSubscribe for more inspiring stories of martial arts and personal growth! 🥋✨#MartialArts #BudoMindset #FranCharlton #Karate #PodcastInterview #Inspiration #wtko #shotokan

Join us for an in-depth interview with Scott Langley, 7th Dan Shotokan Karate master, founder of Hombu Dojo Karate International (HDKI), and bestselling author of Karate Stupid and A Sustainable Karate-ka. Starting martial arts at age five with jujutsu and transitioning to karate in North Yorkshire, Scott’s path led him to Japan, where he became the fifth non-Japanese to graduate the gruelling JKS Instructors’ Course. In this conversation, Scott shares his experiences training under legendary sensei's, insights on building a sustainable karate practice, and the challenges of balancing tradition with modern martial arts.🌟 Highlights include Scott’s reflections on his time in Japan, the dimensions of karate, and his vision for fostering community in the martial arts world.👉 Subscribe for more inspiring martial arts content!🔔 Hit the bell icon to stay updated.💬 Tell us in the comments: What’s your biggest takeaway from Scott’s journey?📌 Follow Scott Langley: https://hombudojokarate.com/📌 Check out Scott’s books: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Karate-Stupid-Scott-Langley/dp/178301346X📌Boken-Sha Quality Gi's: https://boken-sha.com/📌Budo Mindset Magazine: https://budomindset.com/📌 Connect with us: https://www.facebook.com/ukkaratepodcast/📌 Connect with us: https://www.instagram.com/ukkaratepodcast/#ScottLangley #ShotokanKarate #MartialArts #KarateInterview #HDKI

Join us for an inspiring and action-packed conversation with Sensei John Gardiner, a martial arts legend and esteemed karate instructor! In this episode of UK Karate Podcast, we dive deep into Sensei Gardiner’s incredible journey— from his time as a British Champion to coaching alongside the renowned Ticky Donovan.With decades of experience in kata, kumite, and innovative training techniques, Sensei John shares his wisdom on mastering the mindset needed to excel in martial arts and beyond.Expect practical tips, motivational insights, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to train champions. Whether you’re a martial artist, a fitness enthusiast, or simply someone looking for inspiration, this conversation will leave you ready to step up your game. Don’t miss it!

A conversation with the JKA England Men's Kumite team who in 2024 won Gold in the JKA European Team Kumite.

🎙️ UK Karate Podcast • Sensei Shaun Cassidy | Karate Journey, Coaching Insights & Shotokan PhilosophyJoin us on the UK Karate Podcast for an inspiring conversation with Sensei Shaun Cassidy, a seasoned Shotokan karate practitioner and coach. In this episode, Sensei Shaun shares his karate journey — from his first dojo steps to becoming a respected teacher — and the lessons martial arts have taught him about mindset, leadership, and resilience.Whether you’re a beginner, competitor, dojo instructor, or martial arts enthusiast, this episode is packed with practical coaching insights, training tips, and philosophy from a senior karate figure.🥋 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Sensei Shaun’s first steps in karate & what drew him to ShotokanKey milestones: gradings, competitions, coaching experiencesChallenges he faced and how karate shaped his personal growthHis coaching philosophy: building confidence, resilience & student developmentTraditional Shotokan values in modern practiceAdvice for karate students, coaches & dojo leaders🎯 Takeaways: Understand the principles of karate training, dojo culture, and the mindset of a committed martial artist.🔔 Subscribe to UK Karate Podcast for more inspiring martial arts conversations:👉 YouTube👍 Like if you enjoyed this episode.💬 Comment your biggest takeaway.📲 Share with your karate partners!Follow us online:📸 Instagram📘 Facebook#UKKaratePodcast #ShaunCassidy #ShotokanKarate #KarateJourney #KarateTraining #MartialArtsPodcast #KarateCoach #KarateSensei #DojoLife #KarateMindset #TraditionalKarate #KarateUK #JKA

A conversation with the HDKI Technical Director Sensei Simon Bligh 6th Dan. Simon Bligh was born in 1960 and has been training in Shotokan Karate since 1974, where he started in his hometown of Liverpool. After relocating to London, he spent many years as a member of Enoeda Sensei`s famous Marshall St Dojo. In 1990-1991 he spent a year living, training and working in Japan. In 2004 he joined the JKS and has been a big contributor to the success of JKS in England. He has a wealth of experience in Shotokan Karate with a great passion for its depth. He applies Karate to every aspect of his life. He trains hard and more often than he teaches. He believes in "Karate for everyone, for all your life". Simon teaches regularly here in the U.K. and overseas. Simon is also a professional Comedian and as such his teaching style is very enjoyable, upbeat and relaxed whilst still delivering top quality karate. His catchphrase 'Don't Die!' Now Rings in Dojos all over the UK. Simon is now Technical Director of HDKI Great Britain and also a qualified Dan and Kyu grade Examiner. He has his own vibrant and thriving Dojo 'Shogai' in South Leverton, Nottinghamshire and is always only too willing to support HDKI members and Instructors alike.

A conversation wish Sharon Ingle about her karate journey.

A conversation with Sensei Andy Patton a second generation karateka, Andy talks about his karate journey and all the people that inspired him.

A conversation with Amelia Gustard about her karate journey.

A conversation with JKA England junior squad member Lorenzo Costantin.

A conversation with Sensei Chris Walsh a second generation karateka that stepped up to save Newark SKC in the clubs time of need.

A conversation with Sensei Mick Lowe about his karate Journey.

A conversation with Sensei Phil Raikes about his karate journey.

A conversation with Sensei's Janet Farrell & Carrol Sheffield about there karate journey.

A conversation with Sensei Steve Walsh about his Karate Journey.