Kojo Karate Kai Luton – special offers on local classes
A friendly, welcoming sports club is offering affordable sessions, ideal for sporty five-year-olds to flexible 105-year-olds, and everyone in between!
Kojo Karata Kai has been a household name in Luton for more than 30 years. Nobody knows that more than class instructor – or Sensei – Kieran Broderick, who used to watch from the sidelines as his older brother and sister took part, and practice his moves in his bedroom!
By year one at primary school he had joined the class, by 12 he was a junior black belt, senior blackbelt by 16 and second dan by 19. Eight years ago he took over as the class instructor from Sensei Julius George fifth Dan, helping share his passion for karate with the next generation.
“This is very much a community led club,” said Kieran. “We have been part of the Luton life for more than 30 years.
“While we do want to help people improve their fitness and confidence, you don’t have to be chasing medals to join. Yes, we will push you to achieve your best and some club members take part in regional and national competitions, but if you simply want the fitness and self-defence elements – should you need them – you can do just that.”
A real priority for Kieran is to ensure that the club stays affordable for all: He doesn’t make a penny from running it and everything goes back into the club itself and the equipment.
What will I get from it?
Members who take part regularly report greater fitness and co-ordination, flexibility and confidence, along with improved self-esteem and support for mental and physical development.
Kieran added: “It’s also a great way to make new friends, boys, girls, men and women all take part in this safe, friendly environment.”
What does it cost?
This is one of the most exciting parts – your first two classes are completely free, and it is £20 a month for one session a week, £40 a month for two sessions a week, or £50 a month for unlimited sessions. And why not make it a family affair – there’s a 50 per cent discount for additional family members.
Kieran added: “We are a small club, which people love, but the more members we have the easier it is to keep our costs down – we’d love to see more people coming along. Don’t be shy, it’s totally free to try with no commitment.”
What do members say?
Rehna Mullick gave it five stars on google, saying: “Friendly, passionate and fun! Feel like part of the family here. Affordable and very accommodating. Highly recommended.”
Fellow five start reviewer Vikki Hardy said: “Kojo has been around for many years and something I hold dearly in my heart! I have been with this club since my childhood. Started as a white belt and went right through to black.“As an adult I rejoined the club with my child and was welcomed back with open arms. This club is like a family!“It's suitable for all ages and abilities and can help boost confidence, self esteem as well as an improvement in fitness and mental agility.“My advice...give it a go! You have nothing to lose and so much to gain.”
Where do I find out more?
You can join at any time – there’s no need to wait for a new term of sessions start. Current classes run on Saturdays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.
At the moment all sessions are mixed, but Kieran is testing the market to see if a women’s-only class would appeal. All sessions take place at the Bushmead Community Hub. To find out more, visit the Facebook page www.facebook.com/Kojo.Karate.Kai, the website www.bushmeadhub.co.uk or call Kieran on 07808 528116.