SHORIN-RYU KARATE & RYUKYU KOBUDO
Traditional Okinawan Karate & Self-Defence Classes in Edinburgh
Forget point-scoring sports and high-volume “belt factories.” Experience authentic Shorin-Ryu Karate and Ryukyu Kobudo in a focused, small-group environment.
Class 1: Shorin-Ryu Karate (Empty-Hand Martial Art)
Target Focus: Practical Self-Defence, Functional Fitness, & Traditional Discipline
Who It’s For: Beginners to experienced adults (16+) looking for real-world martial capability.
Description: Join small-group training focused on the core principles of classical Okinawan Shorin-Ryu Karate. We look past modern sport competition to deliver a complete, functional self-defence system. Lessons integrate close-quarter striking, kicking, tactical body shifting (Tai Sabaki), joint locks, and takedowns.
Schedule: Wednesdays | 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: St. Brides Centre
10 Orwell Terrace, Edinburgh EH11 2DZ
Age Requirement: Adults & Youth (16+)
View Class ScheduleClass 2: Ryukyu Kobudo (Okinawan Weapons Training)
Target Focus: Traditional Weaponry, Coordination, & Historical Precision
Who It’s For: Students with prior martial arts experience or active karateka seeking technical depth.
Description: Complement your empty-hand practice with Ryukyu Kobudo, the traditional weapons art of Okinawa. Develop hand-eye coordination, wrist control, and structural power using classical weapons including the Bō (staff), Sai (trident), Nunchaku, and Tonfa.
Schedule: Thursdays | 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: St. Brides Centre
10 Orwell Terrace, Edinburgh EH11 2DZ
Requirement: Intermediate / Advanced Martial Artists
View Class ScheduleClass 3: Private 1-on-1 Coaching
Target Focus: Personalized Technique, Self-Defence, & Conditioning
Who It’s For: Practitioners wanting rapid progress, tailored feedback, or flexible scheduling.
Description: Accelerate your development with direct 1-on-1 instruction with lead instructor Ben Eayrs. Private coaching packages are tailored to your personal goals—whether honing kata mechanics, mastering self-defence applications (Bunkai), or building martial strength and mobility.
Availability: Monday – Saturday (Mornings, Afternoons, or Evenings)
Location: Private Studio / Flexible Location (Edinburgh)
Transparent Pricing
No hidden contract fees or long-term lock-ins—just simple, straightforward training.
| Option | Rate | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Single Drop-in | £14 / class | Try a session or drop in when your schedule allows. |
| Concession Drop-in | £9 / class | Available for National Entitlement Card Holders. |
| 1 Class / Week | £50 / month | Full monthly access to 1 weekly group session (Karate or Kobudo). |
| 2 Classes / Week | £65 / month | Full monthly access to both Wednesday Karate & Thursday Kobudo. |
THE DIFFERENCE: WHY TRAIN WITH US?
Authentic Lineage, No Hype: We are Edinburgh’s dedicated traditional Okinawan martial arts school, bringing authentic Shorin-Ryu and Ryukyu Kobudo direct from Okinawan sources.
Small-Group Attention: You won’t get lost in a crowded gym. Every student gets hands-on corrections and direct feedback every session.
Practical Application over Trophy Hunting: We don’t train for sport medals or point-tagging. We train for practical self-defence, joint manipulation, body dynamics, and lifelong personal development.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
Q: Do I need prior martial arts experience to start Wednesday Karate classes? A: Not at all! Beginner adult students are always welcome. Our small-group format ensures you are taught at a pace that builds real skill safely.
Q: What should I wear for my first class? A: Loose, comfortable workout clothing (like track pants and a t-shirt) is perfect. Once you commit to regular training, we can assist you with getting a traditional gi.
Q: Where are classes located in Edinburgh? A: We train at St. Brides Centre, 10 Orwell Terrace, Edinburgh (EH11 2DZ), conveniently located with easy access via public transit.
Ready to experience traditional Okinawan Karate in Edinburgh?
Spaces in our small-group classes are limited to ensure quality instruction. Contact me today to reserve your spot or ask any questions.
Testimonials
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M Marshall
Thank you for allowing me to attend the fine seminar you arranged and co-instructed with Dell Hamby Sensei While I was only able to take part on the Friday seminar, the sections on Shorin Ryu and Uechi Ryu kihon, Kata and partner conditioning were interesting and informative, they had content and variation. Ben Sensei and Dell Sensei should be commended on their skills and teaching methods. I regret I could not experience the Kobudo with them, but will make every effort to do so in the future.
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T Giroud
I thoroughly enjoyed the experience Ben, thanks for organising the seminar. As you know, I was already interested in Bo techniques but I had mostly learnt from books and videos so it was really nice to have a true expert such as Dell Hamby Sensei to learn properly from (and yourself too of course!). I wish I could have done two days rather than just one but I‘ve got plenty of material to practice from (and get ready for next year ;-). I found the Sai practise more challenging but having no prior experience didn’t really help. I’m looking forward to improving as is it such a cool weapon! Anyway, excellent experience overall. Probably a bit of a shame from your point of view that there weren‘t many of us on Sunday but for me, those were ideal conditions to get more out of you guys given the short time I had to practice.
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J Simmers
If your are in or near Edinburgh I highly recommend reaching out to Ben. He’s passionate, knowledgeable, humble and skilled. Don’t let his young age and youthful exuberance make you think he doesn’t have years of experience with a deep understanding about body mechanics, kata and weapons. I’ve trained only a brief time with him on Okinawa (and interviewed him for my podcast) and this man has a ton to offer.
