Welcome to British Wadokai
(Eikoku Wado Kai Karate Atemi Jujutsu Renmei)
British Wadokai is a non-profit & non-commercial organisation teaching only traditional WadoryuKeeping it consistent with authentic 'undiluted' Wadoryu of mainstream British Wadokai Karate.
British Wadokai (BWK) was formed under the direction of Gary Swift 8th Dan Hanshi, who started martial-arts training in 1966 at the age of 10. BWK is a friendly and traditional Wadoryu Karate organisation providing the highest standard of support, guidance and benefits to all students and clubs in membership. Serving Communities with the Authentic, Original and Traditional Wadoryu Karate Ju-Jutsu syllabus of the British Wado Kai Karate-do Federation. "It's the original syllabus, we don't 'make it up' along the way!" British Wadokai - Nothing added, nothing taken away! |
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The Authentic British Wadokai Karate Syllabus; as introduced from Japan and practised within the UK since 1963. The ONLY organisation teaching the original authentic historic British Wadokai Karate under the official Governing Bodies of the British, European and International Wado Federations.
Wado officially began in May 1934 when Hironori Ohtsuka Meijin registered his own style of martial-art, which he named ‘Wado Ryu’, becoming recognised as an independent style of martial-arts in Japan.
Wado’s origins were developed by Ohtsuka Meijin's continuous study of various martial arts, formulating the ‘Wado’ techniques, by combining his own innovations and natural movements found in the other martial-arts he studied; such as Jujutsu, Aikido, Kendo, Karate, Atemi, etc.
Wado’s origins were developed by Ohtsuka Meijin's continuous study of various martial arts, formulating the ‘Wado’ techniques, by combining his own innovations and natural movements found in the other martial-arts he studied; such as Jujutsu, Aikido, Kendo, Karate, Atemi, etc.
Whereas most Jujutsu schools specialise mainly in Nage-waza (throwing and ground techniques), the Shindo Yoshin Ryu Jujutsu School stress more towards Atemi-waza (vulnerable-point striking techniques).
Proud to be British, Proud to be Wado - Proud to be British Wadokai!
英国和道会空手道連盟
No need to book, just turn up to train.
See our British Wadokai Club List for a Dojo near you!
We don’t ‘mix’ our Wado with any other style, Wadoryu gives us everything we need!
Why train in other styles? There's more than a life-time’s study within Wadoryu!
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"It is easier to be world champion in Kumite than it is to be world champion in Kihon... as there is no luck involved in Kihon performance."
Ohtsuka Hironori Meijin. |
"If you are following the true Way and diverge a little, this will later become a large divergence."
Miyamoto Musashi.
“Truth is not what you want it to be; it is what it is, and you must bend to its power or live a lie.”
Miyamoto Musashi.
To understand the deeper meanings of Wado, do we practise Shurite or Shorin-ryu Karate? No!
To understand the deeper meanings of Wado, do we practise Judo or Ju-Jutsu? No!
In order to understand the deeper meanings of Wado, we need to practise Wado!
Wadoryu isn’t just Karate, Wadoryu isn’t just Jujutsu, Wadoryu is an efficiently evolved system of martial-art pressure-point striking that is an amalgamation of both...
As karate stances get lower and slower, Wado stances remain higher and faster.
Gary E Swift Hanshi.
Wadoryu - It's not just a ‘life-skill’, it’s a ‘FOR-LIFE SKILL’.
To understand the deeper meanings of Wado, do we practise Judo or Ju-Jutsu? No!
In order to understand the deeper meanings of Wado, we need to practise Wado!
Wadoryu isn’t just Karate, Wadoryu isn’t just Jujutsu, Wadoryu is an efficiently evolved system of martial-art pressure-point striking that is an amalgamation of both...
As karate stances get lower and slower, Wado stances remain higher and faster.
Gary E Swift Hanshi.
Wadoryu - It's not just a ‘life-skill’, it’s a ‘FOR-LIFE SKILL’.
Don't just do Karate - Do Wadoryu!
A Winner Never Quits and a Quitter Never Wins!
Beware of Fraudulent Commercial Karate Salesmen in your area.
It must be pointed out that British Wadokai DO NOT use unscrupulous methods of student recruitment, such as using ‘cold-calling-salesmen’ or signing people up for long-term standing-order payments schemes.
Please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Page, for more details, regarding the methods used by unmonitored & unaffiliated ‘Commercial Karate’ clubs in your area.
Check the identity and National Governing Body of your local Karate Club for authenticity, FIRST!
It must be pointed out that British Wadokai DO NOT use unscrupulous methods of student recruitment, such as using ‘cold-calling-salesmen’ or signing people up for long-term standing-order payments schemes.
Please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Page, for more details, regarding the methods used by unmonitored & unaffiliated ‘Commercial Karate’ clubs in your area.
Check the identity and National Governing Body of your local Karate Club for authenticity, FIRST!
Have you been a victim of fraud? If so, contact the Police Action-Fraud Squad immediatly
“It takes an honourable man to ‘speak' no ill of another. It takes a pure man to ‘think' no ill of another.
Search for ‘Wa’.” GE Swift Hanshi.
Search for ‘Wa’.” GE Swift Hanshi.
UK Wado-ryu is nearly 60 years old!
First introduced into the UK in 1963 (UK Wado HQ established 1965).
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Japanese Martial-Arts, Karate and Bowing.
Certain cultures and religious-superstitions may restrict participation in traditional Wadoryu Karate, due to the traditional respectful bowing procedures, etiquette and ceremonies required. All participants are required to bow within the Dojo environment; please consider this before training within a British Wadokai Karate Dojo. |
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British Wadokai does not operate 'Restrictive Practices' upon its membership.
We offer everyone all the opportunities; To Train! To Improve! To Progress! A Black Belt is simply a White Belt who doesn't give up! |
Special Anniversary Kyu Grade Certificates available to all British Wadokai Club Examiners & Instructors. See 'Downloads' Page to get yours now!
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"The Way of
Peace & Harmony"
“Tradition is to pass on the flame, not to worship the ash.” |
British Wadokai is not affiliated to any of the many modern 'sport-karate' or 'all-styles' governing bodies around today. British Wadokai is registered within only traditional Wado Karate Governing Bodies; such as the British Wado Federation, European Wado Federation and the International Wado Federation.
Preserving history by 'Preserving the Original and Traditional!' The technical foundations of British Wadokai were established back in 1963, under the direction of Tatsuo Suzuki Hanshi of the United Kingdom Karate-do Wadokai (UKKW), formally the United Kingdom Karate-do Federation (UKKF 1963-1975); therefore the traditional lineage of British Wadokai extends over many years. The technical syllabus has remained unchanged since the first introduction of Wado Karate into the UK, such as Sanbon-gumite, Ohyo-gumite, Kihon-gumite, Kata etc. All these aspects are taught and promoted vigilantly within all British Wadokai Dojo and through the regular BWK Wadoryu Standardisation Courses. While many Wadoryu organisations erode the original technical fabric and foundation of Wado-ryu we, at British Wadokai, do not. British Wadokai Karate is a life-skill and with it, in its present condition, will remain to be so. Take something away and it will be missed, then forgotten. We do not teach a 'sport', we teach a highly effective 'martial-art'. |
British Wadokai for IndividualsWe welcome individuals wishing to train with us - whether you are beginner or more experienced. Please contact us to find a club near you. These clubs provide the opportunity to attend many specialist training courses held by highly respected instructors, and enter Wado competitions, should you wish to compete.
For the most able and committed there is the chance to also compete nationally within the British Wado Federation National Championships. Club AffiliationBritish Wadokai offers all Wado Karate clubs 'Full Member' affiliation facilities.
British Wadokai Club Affiliation Membership is FREE and also includes Club Membership Personal and Public Liability Insurances.
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British Wadokai for Clubs & AssociationsThe British Wadokai Karate-do Federation warmly welcomes enquiries from clubs and associations looking for a positive and genuinely supportive federation to affiliate with. British Wadokai adopts and implements strict vetting procedures when considering applications for new memberships or club affiliation. We have outlined much of our key information on this website; including Constitution, Rules & Regulations. To view our syllabus, application forms and club policies please visit our downloads page. Please consider these documents prior to membership application.
Disclosure Barring Service (DBS/CRB) Certification is a minimum requirement of membership to BWK. For reasons of safeguarding this is vigorously enforced throughout all BWK Clubs & Associations. BWK proactively ensures that all members are aware of, understand and comply with Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) Legislation and legal requirements. To facilitate this British Wadokai offers online Disclosure facilities for all British Wadokai Instructors, Administration Officers and Volunteers. For further details or information please contact us here. |
Is your licence up-to-date?
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ARE YOU LICENSED? IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO ENSURE YOU HAVE A VALID LICENCE...
Conditions of Membership & Training within a British Wadokai Dojo: All Students MUST possess a valid British Wadokai Licence-Membership to participate in regular training. Remember, if your Licence is out of date so also will be your membership and insurance contribution. You will be unable to train, grade, attend courses, compete or take part in any British Wadokai activity without a valid BWK Licence. Insurance is a LEGAL requirement in the UK for the practise of Martial-arts. For further information about British Wadokai Karate Insurance Policy, please follow link. Applications from other organisations – Depending on origination (origin of style, certification, lineage, etc.) grades registered within your existing karate licence can be 'automatically' transferred to your new BWK Licence upon acceptance; Please include your present Licence (or photocopy) for British Wadokai records. Your Instructor will continue your grade commencement once you are in receipt of your new licence and are fully conversant with the requirements for progression. Late Renewals - Firstly. It is the sole responsibility of the individual to keep their insurance, licence, membership up to date and valid. Secondly. It is considered 'negligent' for instructors to allow students to train without adequate insurance. You are placing yourself and your instructor at risk by training without a valid licence. Check your Licence regularly and make sure to renew in plenty of time. |
Licences are required in any and ALL British Wadokai and British Wado Federation Dojo. A British Wadokai Licence also includes student and instructor liability insurances, plus membership to the International Wado Federation.
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Membership for Clubs & Groups.
There are two types of affiliation, depending on your requirements.
1. Full Membership - British Wadokai; which is for 'Direct Membership' only. BWK: www.wadokai.co.uk
2. Associate Membership - British Wado Federation; which is for 'Autonomous Membership'. The British Wado Federation is the only official Governing Body for Wadoryu within the United Kingdom that forms part of the European and International Wado Federations. BWF: www.britishwadofederation.co.uk
1. Full Membership - British Wadokai; which is for 'Direct Membership' only. BWK: www.wadokai.co.uk
2. Associate Membership - British Wado Federation; which is for 'Autonomous Membership'. The British Wado Federation is the only official Governing Body for Wadoryu within the United Kingdom that forms part of the European and International Wado Federations. BWF: www.britishwadofederation.co.uk
For Groups and Associations wishing to pursue 'Autonomous & Association Membership', please visit the
British Wado Federation Website: www.britishwadofederation.co.uk
British Wado Federation Website: www.britishwadofederation.co.uk
Shortcuts!
"Ohtsuka Sensei says that if Wado was a soup, then the Karate part of Wado would just be like a pinch of salt!" Yoshihiko Iwasaki 7th Dan Kyoshi Shihan."Wadoryu, the intellectual art!"
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"Our technique is a personal interpretation of our own natural mechanical evolution. You do not have to compromise authenticity to fully understand Su-Ha-Ri."
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"Modern all-styles karate competition tends to transform Wadō-ryū away from its roots and towards a new ‘generic’ karate that appeals more to the demands of both spectators and competitors." Wikipedia.
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"If you erode Wado, it’ll lose its edge. We don’t mend what isn't broke, neither do we change just to be ‘different’!”
Gary E Swift Hanshi. |
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British Wadokai Southwest. Working closely with Devon & Cornwall Constabulary and Special Branch to help make our community a safer place.
If you notice anything that you suspect may be connected with terrorist activity... don't hesitate... Call the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800-789321. If non-urgent please contact us on; terrorism@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk or call 01392-452683. Click poster/image to enlarge
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The Coat of Arms of British WadokaiSymbols. Crane: Cranleigh, Surrey, where the foundations of British Wadokai were formed. Helmet: Strength and Protection. Red Lion: Devon (Honbu Southwest), Dauntless Courage. Mon: The Lion holds the badge & symbol of British Wado Kai Karate-Jujutsu. Crown: Denotes the Kingdoms of Great Britain (England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales). Motto: (Latin) Reservo Exemplar Quod Institutio – ‘Preserving the Original and Traditional’. |
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Sensei Tatsuo Suzuki makes a special appearance in the video, 'All The King's Horses', by the group 'Firm'.
Click on image to be taken directly to the Video Page. 
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Original Source; YouTube.
K4-ALL - The International Wado Federation believes in a 'Karate For All' Policy. All 'open' competitions and events promoted on the International Wado Federation Website are OPEN to everyone, inside or outside of the IWF, irrespective of National or International Affiliation/s. Please DO NOT attempt to send in posters or advertisements for 'open' competitions/events if they are of a restrictive, bias or 'members only' in nature; as they would not be considered or deemed truly 'open'.
MISSION STATEMENT.
To preserve the traditional development of Wado Karate Jujutsu. We strive to accomplish this in an environment free of intimidation, politics, and other negative distractions and influences. We further seek to foster a spirit of fellowship and understanding by welcoming all like-minded individuals, regardless of race, gender, ethnic background, national origin, or physical handicap.
The British and International Wado Federations are Wado Governing Bodies for amateur and professionally run Wado Karate Schools and not commercially motivated or profit-based karate businesses.
The British Wado Federation is not a member to any 'multi-style' affiliation or organisation as we do not follow or promote 'generic sport-karate'.
"Modern all-styles karate competition tends to transform Wadō-ryū away from its roots and towards a new ‘generic’ karate that appeals more to the demands of both spectators and competitors." Wikipedia.
No 'sport', no 'all-styles', no 'catch', just pure Wado!
To preserve the traditional development of Wado Karate Jujutsu. We strive to accomplish this in an environment free of intimidation, politics, and other negative distractions and influences. We further seek to foster a spirit of fellowship and understanding by welcoming all like-minded individuals, regardless of race, gender, ethnic background, national origin, or physical handicap.
The British and International Wado Federations are Wado Governing Bodies for amateur and professionally run Wado Karate Schools and not commercially motivated or profit-based karate businesses.
The British Wado Federation is not a member to any 'multi-style' affiliation or organisation as we do not follow or promote 'generic sport-karate'.
"Modern all-styles karate competition tends to transform Wadō-ryū away from its roots and towards a new ‘generic’ karate that appeals more to the demands of both spectators and competitors." Wikipedia.
No 'sport', no 'all-styles', no 'catch', just pure Wado!
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Trading & Safety Standards
British Wadokai holds the
'British Karate Trading & Safety Standards Commission Certificate'.
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Need information about CRB?
For British Wadokai's CRB/DBS Officer, please also see British Wadokai Committee Page.
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Help for Heroes!
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Falkland Islands' Liberation Day - 14th June 1982
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Please support 'Help for Heroes!'
Unique visitors.
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By Appointment to HRH Princess Linda Tomislav Karageorgevitch and HRH Prince George Karageorgevitch
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