With so many martial arts styles available, it can be not easy to know where to start. Whether you are a parent looking for an activity for your child, or an adult beginner hoping to try something new, the choice can feel overwhelming.
The term martial arts covers a wide range of disciplines, each with its own techniques, traditions, and benefits. Choosing the right one depends on your goals, your personality, and what you are looking to get out of the experience. This guide will walk you through the basics so you can make an informed decision and feel confident about starting your martial arts journey.
Martial arts are systems of movement designed for self-defence, discipline, and personal development. They can help improve fitness, mental focus, and confidence, while also teaching valuable life skills such as respect and perseverance.
There are many styles within martial arts, including:
Each style has its own focus. Some prioritise striking, others grappling, and some combine both.
The right martial art for you or your child will depend on several factors.
Ask yourself:
The right choice will also depend on the atmosphere you are looking for. Some martial arts schools have a highly competitive focus, while others prioritise self-improvement, discipline, and enjoyment.
Karate is one of the most accessible and well-rounded martial arts for beginners. It combines physical training with mental discipline, making it suitable for children, teenagers, and adults alike.
Benefits of starting with karate:
At Simon Coope Karate School, we teach Wado Ryu karate, a style that blends traditional karate strikes with smooth, efficient movement and elements of jujutsu. It focuses on evasion, timing, and technique rather than brute strength, which makes it an excellent choice for beginners and younger students.
One of the great things about karate is that it works for different age groups, each gaining their own unique benefits.
For children: Karate offers structure, focus, and respect. It helps them build confidence, follow instructions, and improve coordination while having fun.
For teenagers: Karate builds resilience, physical strength, and self-discipline. It provides a positive outlet for energy and stress, and gives them a clear set of goals through the belt system.
For adults: Karate is a fantastic way to improve fitness, reduce stress, and join a supportive community. Many adults enjoy the sense of achievement that comes from progressing through the belts.
Karate classes can also be family-friendly, meaning parents and children can train together and share the same hobby.
If you are ready to begin, Simon Coope Karate School offers classes across Leicestershire, making it easy to find a dojo near you.
Our locations include:
All classes are taught by experienced, DBS-checked instructors in a welcoming and supportive environment. Trial classes are available, and no previous experience is required.
Still unsure which martial art is right for you or your child? Karate is a fantastic place to begin. It offers the perfect combination of discipline, fitness, and fun, while being suitable for all ages and abilities.
Join a class near you in Leicestershire and take advantage of our free trial for new students. It is the ideal way to experience karate first-hand and see how it can benefit you or your family.
View our timetable to find a class near you
Book your free trial today and take the first step in your martial arts journey
Karate is one of the most beginner-friendly martial arts because it combines fitness, discipline, and self-defence in a structured way. Its clear belt system helps new students track their progress.
Think about your goals. If you prefer striking and want to build confidence and discipline, karate is an excellent choice. If you’re more interested in grappling, Judo or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu may appeal. Some people also enjoy mixed styles like MMA.
Simon Coope Karate School offers kids karate classes and adult karate classes at several convenient locations, including:
With multiple venues, it’s easy to find a class near you that suits your schedule. Book a free karate trial now!
