Martial Arts and Karate Classes in Cippenham
Cippenham Martial Arts Classes
The 18:00 class is open to children aged 7 and above and adults, making it ideal for parents who would like to train alongside their children. This is followed at 19:15 by a dedicated teenagers and adults class.
Shuhari teaches a practical martial arts and self-defence system rather than concentrating on a single traditional style. Our classes draw techniques from karate, boxing, wrestling, Krav Maga, kung fu, judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), kickboxing and Muay Thai.
Classes include striking, grappling, pad work, partner drills, sparring and practical self-defence drills.
Each session lasts one hour and normally begins with a warm-up and stretching before moving into technique practice and partner training. The intensity and complexity of the exercises are adjusted according to the experience and ability of each student.
Complete beginners are very welcome. You do not need to be fit, flexible or have any previous martial arts experience before starting.
Our Cippenham classes are taught by experienced martial artist Brian Southon, whose martial arts background stretches back to 1986 and includes judo, Wing Chun, Thai boxing, kickboxing and traditional karate. His experience across several different disciplines fits particularly well with Shuhari's multi-style approach to practical martial arts.
The Cippenham venue is conveniently located for students from Cippenham, Burnham, Britwell, Farnham Royal, Lent Rise, Chalvey and the surrounding Slough area, with parking available at the venue.
Class Schedule
Cippenham Instructors
About the instructor
Brian began his martial arts journey with judo in 1986. He later trained extensively in Wing Chun, becoming a senior student, and has also studied Thai boxing, kickboxing and traditional karate.
His competitive kickboxing experience saw him compete under the British Kick Boxing Union and reach a UK ranking of number four. He later studied traditional karate from 2009 to 2022, becoming a 3rd Dan black belt instructor.
Brian brings decades of experience from different martial arts traditions to his Cippenham classes. His knowledge of pad work, sparring, close-range training and practical self-defence makes him particularly suited to Shuhari's well-rounded approach.
He combines strong technique with an approachable teaching style and works with students of different ages and experience levels.
Why Choose Shuhari in Cippenham?
- Two Tuesday evening classes. Our 18:00 children and adults session is followed by a 19:15 teenagers and adults class, giving different age groups an appropriate training environment.
- Parents and children can train together. Rather than watching the class, parents are welcome to join the 18:00 class and learn alongside their children.
- Multiple martial arts in one programme. Classes draw from karate, boxing, wrestling, Krav Maga, kung fu, judo, BJJ, kickboxing and Muay Thai, developing both striking and grappling skills.
- An exceptionally experienced instructor. Brian Southon's martial arts training began in 1986 and spans several striking and grappling disciplines.
- Beginner friendly. No previous martial arts experience is required. Students progress at their own pace and the intensity of training is adjusted appropriately.
- Part of the wider Shuhari community. Shuhari has been teaching martial arts and practical self-defence since 2010, with experienced, DBS-checked and first-aid-trained instructors across our Berkshire locations.
Also Train at Our Other Berkshire Locations
Your Shuhari membership is not tied to a single venue. If you would like to train more than once a week, you can also join sessions at any of our other Berkshire dojos.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age can children start martial arts in Cippenham?
Our Cippenham classes are open to children from 7 years old. There is no upper age limit for adults.
When are the Cippenham martial arts classes?
Classes take place every Tuesday evening at Cippenham Baptist Church Youth Centre.
The children and adults class runs from 18:00 to 19:00, followed by a teenagers and adults class from 19:15 to 20:15.
Are the Cippenham classes suitable for complete beginners?
Yes. You do not need any previous martial arts experience to join Shuhari. Beginners train alongside more experienced students, with our instructors adjusting the techniques and intensity to suit each person's ability.
Can parents train with their children?
Yes. Our 18:00 Tuesday class allows children aged 7+ and adults to train together. Many parents choose to take part rather than simply watching their child from the side.
What martial arts styles do you teach?
Shuhari is a multi-discipline martial arts and self-defence system. Our training incorporates techniques from karate, boxing, wrestling, Krav Maga, kung fu, judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, kickboxing and Muay Thai.
What happens during a typical class?
Classes normally include a warm-up and stretching, technique instruction, partner drills, pad work, practical self-defence exercises and sparring.
Do I need to be fit before I start?
No. You don't need to get fit before beginning martial arts. Training itself gradually develops cardiovascular fitness, strength, coordination, flexibility and stamina.
Everyone works at an appropriate intensity for their current ability.
What should I wear to my first class?
Comfortable gym clothes are fine for your first few sessions. You do not need to buy a martial arts uniform before trying a class.
If you decide to continue training, you can get a Shuhari uniform later.
Do you offer a free trial class?
Yes. We offer a free trial class so you can experience the training before deciding whether it is right for you.
Is there parking at the Cippenham venue?
Yes. Parking is available at the venue.
Is the style taught useful for real-world self defence?
Yes, the training is pragmatic. Effective self-defence requires more than learning a single type of technique. A well-rounded student should understand striking, vertical grappling, close-range fighting, ground grappling, weapons and multiple opponents while becoming accustomed to practising techniques against a resisting training partner.
Can I train more than once a week?
Yes. Your Shuhari membership gives you access to our other locations as well as Cippenham.
This means you can supplement your Tuesday Cippenham class with sessions in Slough, Maidenhead, Bracknell, Langley or Burnham, depending on your membership and schedule.