Martial Arts

What types or martial arts are available? 

Martial arts are fighting skills that people practice for sport or for self-defense. Most of them developed in eastern Asia. The word martial comes from Mars, the ancient Roman god of war. However, most of the martial arts are not violent.

Martial arts are all about respect. They’re traditionally used as forms of self-defence, but also develop self-discipline, self-confidence and fitness.

The martial arts recognised by Sports England are:

• Aikido: bab.org.uk
• Brazilian Ju Jitsu: UK Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Association - UKBJJA
• Chinese Martial Arts: bccma.com
• Judo: britishjudo.org.uk
• Ju Jitsu: bjjagb.com
• Karate: britishkaratefederation.co.uk 
• Kendo: britishkendoassociation.com
• Sombo: britishsombofederation.com
• Taekwondo: 
  • tkdcouncil.com 
  • britishtaekwondo.org.uk
  • gbtaekwondo.co.uk
• Tang Soo Do: uktsdf.org.uk

Where can I find a club?

Most of the National Governing Bodies (NGB) listed have a ‘find a club’ page or a general enquiries contact number or email listed on their website.

What happens if I don't use an NGB approved club?

All martial arts must be carried out using the standards and controls laid down by the appropriate National Governing Body (NGB). The easiest way to make sure you meet the standards and controls is by using a NGB approved club. If your club’s not recognised by a NGB, then unfortunately there is no way of confirming it is operating to the standards of the relevant NGB, so must not be used.