Humber Martial Arts

Building confidence and discipline through traditional martial arts since the heart of the community.

Welcome to Our Dojo

We're a small, family-run martial arts school serving Hull, Grimsby, and the surrounding Humber area. What started in a church hall twenty years ago has grown into a welcoming space where children and adults train together, support each other, and build skills that last a lifetime. We're not about trophies or flashy moves. We focus on the fundamentals: discipline, respect, and steady progress.

Our instructors have trained for decades, but more importantly, they know how to teach. Whether you're five years old stepping onto the mat for the first time or an adult looking to get fit and learn something new, you'll find a supportive environment here. We keep our classes small enough that everyone gets individual attention.

What We Teach

We offer classes in three core disciplines. Our karate programme follows traditional Shotokan principles with an emphasis on kata, kumite, and practical application. It's structured, progressive, and suitable for all fitness levels. Judo classes focus on throws, holds, and groundwork in a safe, controlled setting. It's excellent for building coordination and teaching children how to fall safely.

Our self-defence courses are practical and realistic. We cover situational awareness, de-escalation, and physical techniques that actually work under pressure. These sessions are popular with adults, especially those who work late shifts or travel alone. All our training emphasises control and responsibility. We teach martial arts as a skill, not a weapon.

Who Trains With Us

Our students range from young children to retirees. Families often train together, with parents and kids in back-to-back classes or sometimes even the same session. We've had siblings earn their black belts within months of each other, and we've watched toddlers grow into confident teenagers on our mats.

Many of our adult students came to martial arts later in life. Some wanted to get fit without a gym membership. Others were looking for a hobby that challenged them mentally as well as physically. A few have gone on to compete regionally, but most train for personal growth, stress relief, and the camaraderie.

Our Timetable

We run classes six days a week at our main venue in Hull and three evenings a week in Grimsby. Juniors train Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings, with a Saturday morning session that's always busy. Adults have Tuesday and Thursday evening slots, plus Sunday mornings for those who prefer a weekend routine.

Beginners are welcome to join at any time. Your first two sessions are free so you can see if it's the right fit before committing. We provide loaner equipment for new starters, though you'll want your own gi once you decide to continue. If you're unsure which class suits you best, get in touch and we'll talk you through the options.

Meet Our Instructors

Our head instructor has been teaching martial arts for over thirty years and holds dan grades in both karate and judo. He's supported by a small team of assistant instructors, all of whom trained with us before earning their teaching qualifications. We believe in growing our own teachers because they understand the culture and values we've built here.

Every instructor is DBS checked and holds current first aid certification. We take safeguarding seriously, and parents are always welcome to watch classes from the seating area. Our teaching style is firm but encouraging. We push students to improve, but we never humiliate or rush anyone through the ranks.

Pricing and Membership

We charge £32 per month for juniors and £38 per month for adults, paid by standing order. That covers unlimited attendance at your age group's classes, so if you want to train four times a week, you can. Family discounts are available when two or more members of the same household train with us.

There's a one-off joining fee of £15 to cover your licence and insurance through our governing body. Gradings happen three or four times a year and cost £20 to £35 depending on the level. We don't believe in hidden costs or pressure to buy branded gear. A plain white gi and a willingness to learn are all you need to get started.

Getting Started

If you'd like to visit, just turn up ten minutes before a class that suits your schedule. We'll show you around, answer your questions, and get you on the mat if you're ready. No need to book for your first visit. Wear comfortable clothes you can move in—tracksuit bottoms and a t-shirt are fine.

We're located just off Anlaby Road in Hull, with free parking at the rear. The Grimsby sessions run at the community centre on Victor Street. If you have specific questions about injuries, experience levels, or what to expect, drop us an email or give us a ring. We're happy to talk things through before you visit.