Membership
Welcome to Cambridge. CUKC is one of the University’s largest and most successful martial-arts clubs, and new members are welcome throughout the year, from complete beginners to experienced karateka.
Your first three sessions are free
If you have little or no martial-arts experience, come to a Tuesday beginners’ session or the Sunday general session. Wear comfortable sports clothing; you do not need a karate suit or equipment to begin.
To join, complete the membership form and come along to training. If you would like to ask something first, contact the committee.
Licences
Everyone practising a martial art must hold a licence, which provides insurance cover in the rare case of an accident. Your first three sessions are covered automatically. To continue training, you will need a licence from Japan Shotokan Karate England (JSKE), our parent association.
Your licence allows you to grade and attend affiliated courses and competitions. Complete the JSKE licence form when you are ready to continue.
Stay informed
The committee sends regular information about training, competitions and events by email. Subscribe to the mailing list so you do not miss rota changes or club opportunities.
Cambridge awards Blues to sportspeople who meet defined performance standards. The current karate requirements are available on the Blues criteria page.
Questions & answers
I’ve never done karate before and I can’t even touch my toes. Surely I’ll be rubbish?
Not a problem at all. Nearly all our members started karate with us. We run a dedicated beginners’ session each week plus an all-grades session on Sundays. The most important thing for beginners is attitude and determination; the rest comes with practice.
I’m a woman, so karate’s not for me.
There’s no reason to feel put off. Karate is not about violence; it is a great way to keep fit, build confidence and learn useful skills. The best thing is to come along and try it.
I’ve done karate before. What can CUKC offer me?
CUKC members compete at regional, national and international level, and karate is eligible for Cambridge Blues. Members have joined us from Shito-ryu, Wado-ryu, Goju-ryu, Kyokushinkai and other styles.
Our competition history →What style of karate do you practise?
CUKC practises Shotokan karate-do and is affiliated to Japan Shotokan Karate England (JSKE).
About JSKE →Why should I do karate?
Karate builds confidence, improves fitness and flexibility, teaches self-defence and introduces you to a friendly community. There are also opportunities to represent Cambridge at every level of competition.
Will I get hurt during sparring?
The club fosters a safe environment, especially for beginners. Kumite is introduced progressively, with control, protective equipment and clear instruction.
How much does it cost?
Your first three sessions are free. To continue, you will need club membership and a JSKE licence for insurance and grading. Current charges are listed on the Fees page.
See current fees →Will experienced members look down on beginners?
No. Every black belt was once a white belt, and many began right here at CUKC. Experienced members help newcomers develop and are an important part of the club’s teaching culture.
Does the club have a social side?
Yes. The club runs termly socials, post-training pub trips and other events. The Annual Dinner around May Week is one of the highlights of the year.
Who teaches the club?
CUKC is taught by professional and student instructors. Chief Instructor Sensei Ken Hori, 6th Dan, regularly leads Sunday sessions, supported by experienced student black belts.
Meet the instructors →Where do you train?
Kumite and Sunday general sessions are in Studio 1 at the University Sports Centre, beginners train in the Jane Harrison Room at Newnham College, and kata is in the gymnasium at Chesterton Sports Centre.
Training venues and times →What is a grading?
A grading is an examination of your progress and an opportunity to move up a grade. You are assessed on the syllabus appropriate to your current level.
View the grading syllabus →I missed Freshers’ Week. Is it too late to join?
Not at all. New members join throughout the year. Just come to a beginners’ or Sunday session and introduce yourself to the instructor or a committee member.
I’m interested. Where do I start?
Fill in the membership form, check the current training rota, and come along in loose sports clothes. You do not need a karate suit or protective equipment for your first sessions.
Choose a session →