Barry Kyokushin Karate club 126 Broad Street, Barry CF62 7AL

"I only joined this club a few months ago and it has been for me a great experience. It's a really friendly and inclusive environment where everyone is supportive and encouraging of one another. The instructors are both fantastic and bring humour and fun to the classes at the same time as challenging us. It's been a lot of fun and I always look forward to my classes. Would strongly recommend to anyone looking for a Karate class ."

"I recently started as a beginner and despite my age being close to 50, I was made to feel welcome, amongst a diverse group of other students of varying ages, skill and ability. I was immediately made to feel welcome and it wasn't long until I felt an immediate connection with the club and the other students. The Sensei, Phill Sedgmond, was patient and came across as knowledgeable and very adept at what he does. He not only teaches the techniques, but also explains why they are important and how they fit into a given scenario. Senpai Rhian was also helpful and patient in helping us beginners keep up and I have seen this also reflected in other students who have joined since I started. Classes are buzzing after finishing and people genuinely don't want to leave. There is a very strong community of students who are very welcoming and friendly. I was immediately made to feel part of the club and I only wish I had started sooner."

"I started with the club last year, just before my 48th birthday. It was, to some degree, a leap into the unknown as I didn’t know whether a) my physical condition would accommodate the training and b) whether I’d fit in to an established group or feel like the odd one out given my age and inexperience. In short, any preconceptions or fears about the club were entirely misplaced. The club is exceptionally well run at all levels. From the juniors through to the seniors, the level of support and quality of tuition and knowledge is second to none. From the minute you walk in you feel that it is an environment that respects the tradition and history of Kyokushin karate but also recognises its place in modernity. The membership is welcoming and friendly and approach each lesson with the common goal of improving their own practice and supporting one another to do so. Unlike many martial arts clubs and gyms, where there may be an undercurrent of ego and toxic masculinity, this is simply not the case at this club. From the youngest member through to the oldest, the primary objective is to encourage, learn and support one another. Whilst focus, discipline and a commitment to training are requisite and expected components to each lesson, they are blended beautifully with good humour from Sensei Phil and Senpai Rhian and understanding and an acknowledgement of personal abilities (and that once over 40, your hips may not let you do what you want them to do!) It is without any doubt a beautifully run, highly professional and well-equipped dojo. Sensei Phil has a wealth of knowledge and experience to draw from with which he supplements your understanding of both what it is you are doing and why you are doing it. Senpai Rhian’s technical knowledge of kata, ease with which she is able to communicate her command of the subject matter and supportive demeanour make her an excellent tutor. Together they represent some of the best calibre karate instructors you will find anywhere. If you are thinking of joining but are held back by insecurities related to age, fitness, confidence then don’t be. You won’t find a more inspiring and affirming environment to be in. If you have children who are thinking of joining, then I would encourage you to encourage them. The benefits to a child in relation to fitness, self-discipline and focus are invaluable. My only regret with this club, and karate generally, is that I didn’t discover it earlier. Don’t make that same mistake. Come down and see for yourself. You won’t be disappointed."

"Love training in the club, not the fittest of people but signed up. Made a load of great friends. Always different ways to train to keep it fun. And the summer camps are amazing to."

"Since joining the over 40s Barry Kyokushin Karate Club 18 months ago my confidence has increase 100% and I’ve gained new and valuable skills. The club is very friendly and welcoming regardless of your age. If you want to try something new and meet new people . I would highly recommend giving Kyokushin karate a go"