Durham University Karate Club (DUKC) teaches Shotokan Karate – the most widely practised form of Karate in the Western world – at all levels of experience. That said, we have many members who practice other styles and all are welcome.
Karate is excellent for improving your strength, stamina and flexibility. The DUKC is also affiliated with the KUGB, the largest single style association in the country, meaning members can attend regular gradings and compete in competitions. In such competitions, at both local and national levels, the club has enjoyed increasing success; in particular the annual British Universities and Colleges Sports competition (BUCS). Generally, we aim to compete at least once a term. Club members also benefit from wholesale discounts on martial arts equipment and apparel, alongside regular social events throughout the year.
We have 3 sessions a week in which we practice Kumite – more modern Karate, entailing competitive sparring for points – and Kata – traditional Karate, entailing sequences of moves designed to improve form – alongside preparation for competitions and streetwise applications for self-defence.
Our club's instructor, Sensei Sam Light, has trained with the Karate Union of Great Britain (KUGB) since 2001 and holds a 4th Dan black belt alongside regional and national titles in Kata and Kumite. He has also competed internationally for KUGB England at European and World Shotokan Karate championships where he won several bronze and silver medals.
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