Find your personal best

JKA Karate is an ideal way to develop your fitness and flexibility in a friendly and supportive atmosphere.  We have classes in Musselburgh and North Berwick for people of all ages, from five upwards.    

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Makiwara
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Class times

Musselburgh, Queen Margaret University, Thursdays.  Junior class (under 13) 6pm - 7pm.  Senior Class (13+) 7pm to 8pm. 

North Berwick, Sports Centre, Mondays, junior class 7pm to 8pm, senior class  8pm to 9pm. 

Fridays, junior class 6.30pm to 7.30pm, senior class 7.30pm to 8.30pm, Brown and Black belts by invitation,  8.30pm to 9pm. 

How do I know if it's for me? 

If you are interested in training in a safe friendly atmosphere you are welcome to come along to one of our classes, you can join in or watch on the first evening. All you need is your bare feet, loose clothing and enthusiasm. Your first two sessions are free, trial sessions to see if you want to continue.  After that, we ask you to sign up to a membership. You may also choose to buy a gi at some point but there's no hurry. 

What  kind of karate is it? 

As part of the Japan Karate Association,  we practice a refined form of Shotokan, the traditional karate style perfected by Master Funakoshi.  Our karate is not a game of points, weight classes or sport / demonstrations. It is a traditional martial art and way of life that trains our students to be peaceful, but if conflict is unavoidable, our students are trained to take down an opponent with a single blow.  

This requires strength, speed, focus and self-control.  Through kihon (basic techniques), kumite (fighting skills) and kata (pre-set sequences of techniques) we learn to perform techniques without conscious thought. 

In essence, the body remembers how to move and the mind remembers how to be still.

Karate contributes to: 

  • Healthy weight loss.
  • Increased strength and flexibility.
  • Increased self esteem and confidence.

Contact Us To Find Out More

Our Dojo Locations

What is Kumite? What is Kihon? What is Kata? MEMBERS ONLY

Our Instructors

Sensei Bert Stewart, 5th Dan JKA, has been teaching for over 40 years with a strong record as a competitor and coach at international level.

Sensei Bert Stewart and reverse punch
Sensei Bert Stewart, 5th Dan JKA

Stephen Fraser 2nd Dan JKA has been teaching since 2006, with an interest in karate for fitness and flexibility.  He has competed at Scottish level in kumite and kata and is a current referee and corner judge.