A very welcoming martial arts club in the heart of Camden
Camden Shorinji Kempo is a very friendly, inclusive martial arts club offering training for adults, young people, and beginners of all fitness levels. We teach Shorinji Kempo, a modern Japanese martial art combining effective self‑defence, striking, throws, meditation, and confidence‑building practice.
We train at Holborn House, WC1N 3AP, a short walk from Russell Square and Holborn tube stations. Our club is known for being LGBTQIA+ inclusive, community‑focused, and beginner‑friendly. A place where people feel safe, supported, and able to grow.
Why train with Camden Shorinji Kempo?
- Learn practical self‑defence using both striking (goho) and soft techniques (juho)
- Build confidence and resilience through structured training
- Improve physical and mental wellbeing
- Train in a welcoming, diverse community
- Suitable for complete beginners no experience needed
- Female‑focused self‑defence options available
- Youth sessions and pop‑ups across London (ages 14–24)
Our teaching follows the official BSKF syllabus, including techniques such as uchi nuki, morote hiki nuki, gyaku gote, kote nage, and more. Every class includes kihon (basics), pair‑form practice, meditation, and controlled self‑defence drills.
Class times
Holborn House (WC1N 3AP)
- Thursdays: 7pm–9pm
- Sundays: 5:30pm–7:30pm
All sessions are beginner‑friendly.
Who we welcome
We work with:
- Adults of all ages
- Young people aged 14–24
- LGBTQIA+ community members
- Women and non‑binary people seeking safer‑space self‑defence
- Beginners looking for a supportive place to start martial arts
- People wanting to improve fitness, confidence, and wellbeing
Our club ethos reflects Shorinji Kempo’s core principles: Ken Zen Ichi Nyo (mind and body are one) Riki Ai Funi (strength and compassion are not separate) Jiko Kakuritsu / Jita Kyoraku (establish yourself, live in harmony with others)
What you’ll learn
Training covers:
- Striking (tsuki, geri)
- Blocking and evasion (uke, tai sabaki)
- Wrist releases and locks (nuki, gote)
- Throws and takedowns
- Meditation and breathing
- Confidence‑building partner practice
- Realistic self‑defence scenarios
We teach safely, progressively, and with attention to individual needs.
A safe, inclusive environment
Our club is known for being:
- Queer‑friendly and trans‑inclusive
- Supportive of young people with anxiety or low confidence
- Welcoming to beginners and those returning to exercise
- Focused on community connection and reducing loneliness
Try a class
Whether you’re looking for self‑defence, fitness, confidence, or community, Camden Shorinji Kempo is a great place to start.
Book your free taster session: 📧 camdenkempo@gmail.com 📍 Holborn House, WC1N 3AP