Kimura Shukokai International is a traditional Japanese style of karate with 17 currently affiliated countries. KSI was formed after the passing of its late founder Soke Shigeru Kimura (10th Dan). It is headed by four World Chief Instructors namely Shihan Chris Thompson (RSA - 8th Dan), Shihan Lionel Marinus (RSA - 8th Dan), Shihan Eddie Daniels (UK – 8th Dan), Shihan Bill Bressaw (USA – 8th Dan).
The Lakeside Dojo Head Instructor, Sensei Dylan Hammargren (4th Dan Kimura Shukokai Karate) has trained in Funakoshi Karate for 7 years and Kimura Shukokai International for 17 years.
We welcome karate students from the age of four years. Karate can benefit any person in a variety of ways: from increasing one’s self-confidence, discipline, control, awareness, attitude, building character; as well as being a very effective form of self-defence. Our classes are divided into the following groups:
- Toddlers: Four- to five-year olds.
- Kids Beginners to Intermediate: Six- to eight-year olds.
- Preteens Beginners to Advanced: Nine- to twelve-year olds.
- Teens: Thirteen- to sixteen-year olds.
- Adults: Open class.
Tournaments, Gradings and Gashukus
There are a variety of activities provided to stimulate the student’s interests. These form the foundation of their development in Karate.
Gradings
These are very important benchmarks of achievement in each students training. They are set at 3-monthly intervals.
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Standard gradings (white belt to purple belt): These usually take place at the Lakeside Dojo and are conducted by an independent instructor of Yondan (4th Dan) grade or higher.
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Brown belt gradings: These are held at a central dojo every six months and are usually conducted by Shihan Chris Thompson (8th Dan).
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Black belt gradings: These occur at the end of each year at a central venue and are also conducted by Shihan Chris Thompson.
Tournaments
There are a variety of tournaments that students are able to compete in: Style and All-Styles, as well as internal, regional, national and international events. For competitive students, these events provide an opportunity to test and measure the skills they have learnt in classes against students from other dojos. The Kimura Shukokai Style World Championships is a big stepping-stone for those who strive to make the national squad and team.
Gashukus
These are training camps that are held each year for our students at Lakeside. The camp is held over a weekend and is structured around a fun and fulfilling environment for the students as well as a rigorous training schedule.
