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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F Capellari
I highly recommend training with Ben. He’s so knowledgeable about traditional Okinawan Karate, modern fitness, stretching and diet as well. I practice Shotokan Karate and a bit of powerlifting, and Ben’s training opened my eyes on bunkai (Kata’s self defence application) and weight training as well, an essential aspect of traditional karate, often neglected in modern dojos. I’m sure you’ll enjoy training with Ben!
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J Wilson
Ben was one of the most unique instructors I’ve had the pleasure to train with. His broad level of experience provided me with a new perspective on kata and Karate training in general. He’s also patient and easy-going, so you’ll be in good hands.
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C Cain
Having been stuck in a rut with my karate journey after religiously practicing for several years, Ben’s unique expertise and enthusiasm helped revive my passion for the art. He went over concepts often forgotten or misunderstood in most dojos — if you’ve trained in one exclusively, be prepared and keep an open mind as it can be akin to taking the red pill. I did notice a pattern of dialogue where Ben would ask leading questions to get the conventional (aka wrong) answer out of us so that he could explain the correct way. This learning framework may not be suited to everyone, but given the context that he might be used to working with (dispelling commonly taught misconceptions in karate), the approach does make sense. Overall, the content Ben shared during our session really helped me understand the potential techniques behind my movements. He’s also incredibly patient and excellent at explaining things in a relatable and fun way. If you’re in Edinburgh, I highly recommend training with Ben! His friendliness and willingness to share his rare knowledge makes him a gem of a teacher.
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C Barton
I have been wanting to get back into karate lessons after giving them up as a kid but I have very little free time in the evenings to join a class. Luckily I found Ben! He is amazingly accommodating and was able to find a time which works for both of us and I’m so grateful he took me on as a student. Ben is an absolutely fantastic teacher. Every movement and technique is always justified and explained thoroughly which is great. He also has the patience of a saint which makes the learning environment really comfortable and fun! The one-on-one nature of the lessons are great as you can focus on a particular technique/muscle group/etc. I cannot recommend Ben enough and I can’t wait to get started again after the summer!
The Kilted Karateka 