Karate as it was meant to be taught
Classical Shotokan Karate with influences from Goju Ryu, Shiatsu (acupressure) and Tai Chi Chuan — taught the traditional way, to children and adults alike.
EmptyHands was founded in 2006 on the ideals of Gichin Funakoshi Hanshi, the father of modern Karate. The syllabus is inspired by the work of the late Hirokazu Kanazawa Sōke, with a few adaptations.
Teaching is person-centred and built on the four fundamentals of Karate-Dō: Kihon (basics), Kata (form), Bunkai (application) and Kumite (sparring). Just as important are the values of Karate, explored through the Dojo Kun.
Classes run every Thursday from 7pm to 9pm in Ilford, with advanced training for experienced students at the Epping dojo (invite only). A full calendar is published at the end of each year, so everyone can plan ahead.
- WhenThursdays, 7pm – 9pm
- WhereChurch Hall, St Andrew’s, The Drive, Ilford IG1 3PE
- AdvancedExtra classes at the Epping dojo (invite only)
- StyleShotokan, with Goju Ryu influences
- AgesChildren (from 4) and adults
- Try it£10 pay-as-you-go for new starters
How every class is built
Every lesson works through the four fundamentals of Karate-Dō and closes with the Dojo Kun.
Kihon
BasicsStances, blocks, strikes and kicks — the alphabet of Karate.
Kata
FormShotokan kata from Heian Shodan upwards, as set out in the EmptyHands syllabus.
Bunkai
ApplicationPractical application of kata, including self-defence scenarios.
Kumite
SparringFrom pre-arranged gohon kumite to controlled free sparring.
From white belt to Shodan
Students progress through the kyu ranks across four programmes, each with its own monthly and grading fees.
What Karate-Dō brings
hand and fingers clenched, a gesture
to gain or acquire knowledge or skill
to grow or transform into a new state
to give ability, freedom — to enable
to fill with an animating, quickening, or exalting influence
Further reading
The history of Karate-Dō
History of Karate began over a thousand years ago, possibly as early as the fifth century BC when Bodhidharma arrived in China (Henan Province, Songshan…
Bodhidharma, founder of the martial arts
Bodhidharma: The Founder of Martial Arts Bodhidharma was a Buddhist monk from the 5th or 6th century. He introduced Zen Buddhism to China and is traditionally…
Fight Club: back to the roots of Karate
Understanding the Roots of Karate Many modern martial arts trace their roots to To-Te Jitsu. This traditional martial art originated in the Ryukyu Islands,…
Karate classes: your questions
How old do you need to be to start karate?
Children can start from the age of 4, and adults of any age are welcome. Classes cover all grades, from complete beginners to black belts.
When and where are the karate classes in Ilford?
Every Thursday from 7pm to 9pm at the Church Hall, St Andrew’s, The Drive, Ilford IG1 3PE — easy to reach from Gants Hill, Barkingside, Seven Kings and across Redbridge. Advanced students also train at the Epping dojo (invite only).
How much do karate classes cost?
New starters pay as they go at £10 per lesson for their first few weeks. After that, monthly fees run from £30 (Beginner) to £40 (Advanced), plus a £40 annual membership that covers the dojo licence and insurance. Families with three or more students get a 10% discount.
What should I wear to my first karate class?
Just comfortable clothes — there is no need to buy a karate suit (gi) before your first class.
What style of karate is taught?
Traditional Shotokan Karate with influences from Goju Ryu, following a syllabus inspired by the late Hirokazu Kanazawa Sōke. Students grade from 10th Kyu (white belt) to Shodan (black belt).
The first class is the hardest step — you won’t take it alone
New students pay as they go for the first few weeks. Just bring comfortable clothes.