Jo Li Martial Arts - Traditional Shotokan Karate and Self Defence Sheerness

Shotokan Karate / Weapons / Mixed Martial Arts Club located on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent.

WELCOME to the Jo’Li Martial Arts web site. We hope that you enjoy visiting our site and that it is informative. However, if you find that you still have questions after your visit, please fell free to contact us at jolimartialarts@hotmail.co.uk

Founded by Master Gichin Funakoshi, Shotokan Karate is a traditional Japanese martial art. However, although Karate is usually thought of as a Japanese art it is widely accepted that the birth place of Karate as we know it was Okinawa, the largest of the Ryukyu islands to the south of Japan.

Named after it's founder's penname, Shoto, meaning "Pine Wave" and Kan meaning "house", Shotokan karate is steeped in tradition based on the guiding principles set forth by Master Funakoshi: character, sincerity, effort, etiquette and self-control. Shotokan teaches both offensive and defensive techniques that utilize all parts of the body and is broken down into three main training components: kihon (basics), kata (forms) and kumite (sparring).

These components are an essential requirement in order the form a good understanding of techniques. Our training is also complemented with bag/pad work, flow drills and limb strengthening exercises. Although emphasis is given to performance and execution of technique during basics (kihon), we have a realistic approach to the application of those techniques. Our training therefore, not only includes striking, punching, blocking and kicking techniques normally associated with karate by those who see it in a limited way, but also chokes, joint locks, throws, takedowns and ground work, all of which can be found within the 26 Shotokan Karate Kata.

Since being founded in 2001 by Andy Carter Sensei, Jo’Li Martial Arts has endeavored to both follow, and guide students on the path to self-awareness and fulfillment, while striving to instill Master Funakoshi's principals. Jo’Li Martial Arts encourages you to take the opportunity to not only better yourself physically but also mentally. Potential students are encouraged to visit the dojo to watch a class and to talk with the instructors and students to see if we are what you are looking for.

Jo’Li Martial Arts is a non-political and professional dojo that is open to all who wish to train. There are only two basic requirements for new students – that you are a minimum of six years old and that you are prepared to give 100% effort.

Jo’Li Martial Arts is a member of the British National Martial Arts Associations (BNMAA), the UK division of Combat Sports Worldwide and Black Belt International. Through the BNMAA regular courses, seminars and competitions are available. The BNMAA has members from all types of martial arts given excellent opportunities for cross training. Competition categories range from Traditional Kata, Traditional Kumite (stop/start), continuous sparring and open combat. (Please see our links page for the BNMAA and BBI websites).

Jo’Li Martial Arts maintains an excellent friendship with Kixx Martial Arts, based in Maidstone, Kent. Their continued support is greatly appreciated and their knowledge invaluable. Kixx can offer us many opportunities including cross training and weapons training. (Please see our links page for the Kixx Martial Arts website).