karate | kobujutsu | taiso
classes
空手道
KARATE-DO
Shotokan Karate is taught as a structured discipline rooted in stance, posture, breath, and form. Practice emphasises:
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Fundamental techniques and body mechanics
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Kata as a method of study and transmission
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Controlled partner work where appropriate
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Repetition, correction, and gradual refinement
Classes are regular and cumulative. Progress depends on consistency and attention rather than speed.
Suitable for:
Adults and experienced practitioners seeking serious, lineage-based training. Beginners are welcome if prepared for a deliberate method of instruction.
古武術
KOBUJUTSU
Kobudō is the study of traditional Okinawan weapons, taught in continuity with empty-hand practice, not as an isolated or performative discipline. It focuses on:
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Classical weapons forms and handling
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Coordination, distance, and timing
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Structural principles shared with Karate
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Historical context of weapon practice
Kobudō training supports and deepens understanding of body mechanics, movement, and intent developed through Karate.
Suitable for:
Adults engaged in Karate training or practitioners with prior experience in traditional martial arts.
体操
TAISō
Taisō is a disciplined system of body conditioning centred on posture, balance, breath, and coordinated movement. It supports martial training while standing as a practice in its own right. Training includes:
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Joint mobility and alignment
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Stance work and weight distribution
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Whole-body coordination
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Awareness of tension, balance, and structure
Taisō is not fitness training in the modern sense, but a method for cultivating physical integrity.
Suitable for:
Adults interested in structured movement practice, whether or not they study Karate or Kobudō.
Structured Classes
Neko-Bu-Kai offers a limited number of clearly defined classes devoted to the methodical study of traditional martial disciplines. Training is grounded in structure, repetition, and continuity of method.
Classes are not designed as entertainment or casual exercise. Practice is cumulative and long-term by nature.
Our martial arts courses are designed to welcome adult students of all ages and levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. We try our best to organise classes into groups of students who share the same skill level, even though this is not always possible.
When this is not possible, intermediate and advanced students are expected to slow their pace, adjusting to the level of the most inexperienced beginner. While doing so, they should continue to perform basic techniques with the precision and power appropriate to their grade, setting an example through their practice.
beginners
intermediates
advanced
Private LEssons
Private instruction is available by arrangement. Sessions may be conducted one-to-one or in small groups (max 4 people), depending on focus.
Private lessons are intended for:
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Focused technical refinement
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Supplementary study alongside regular classes
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Practitioners with limited availability or specific questions
FAQs
Can I join for a single class?
No. We don't accept students outside our intakes in September and January.
Is there a trial period?
Yes. All our courses include a two-week trial period. At the end of the trial, you can decide whether or not to enrol, completely commitment-free.
Can I join even if I never practiced a martial art?
Yes. All our courses are designed to allow anyone to approach a Martial Art for the first time, with dedicated programmes tailored for beginners.
Up to what age can you practise?
There is no age limit for practising. The only limits are set first by your mind, and then by your body. Free your mind from the belief that you’re not capable or that you lack the necessary skills, and your body will respond accordingly, allowing you to practise the martial art of your choice. It's never too late to learn.
Do you offer classes for children as well?
No. Our courses are exclusively for individuals aged 18 and above.
Do you do competitions?
No. While Karate and Kobujutsu include sparring (kumite), what we practice at Neko-Bu-Kai is not a sport— it is a Martial Art, where the concept of competitive sport holds no relevance.
That doesn’t mean our techniques are any less effective than those used in competition. Martial Arts like Karate, Kung Fu, and other external styles were originally developed for real combat, to face life-threatening situations, not for points or medals.
Can I practise even if I have a medical condition?
It depends on the nature of your condition. Unfortunately, some medical conditions are incompatible with practice; however, please consult your doctor for advice. In such cases, to accept your enrolment and allow you to study and practise, we require not only a Medical Certificate of Good Health but also a Stress Test Medical Certificate.
Do I need any special clothing to get started?
No. To begin with, you can simply wear a tracksuit or very comfortable clothing that does not restrict your movements or hinder your partner during paired exercises. Remember that Karate and Taiso are practised barefoot.
What do I need to do to get started?
Get in touch with us via the form you find below or directly via email. Start a trial period or get enrolled by signing up just a single document.
猫武会
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Contact Us
CLASSES
KARATE
Tuesday 5:30pm – 7:00pm
Thursday 7:00pm – 8:30pm
TAISŌ
Tuesday | 7:30pm – 8:30pm
Thursday | 5:30pm – 6:30pm
Where we are
Garsington Village Hall
Wheatley Road, Garsington
OX44, Oxford
Horspath Hub
The Old Chapel, Horspath
OX33 1RP, Oxford