Kyokushin Karate is one of the toughest martial arts on the planet. Definitely not one for those of you who don’t like to be hit. If you do not like violence, you probably shouldn’t even peek through the windows. Masutatsu Oyama founded Kyokushin in 1964 and since then an amazing 12 million students have trained in this style. It is distinguished by it’s full contact training, stand up style and emphasis on it’s practicality and physical toughness.

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The unique Japanese martial art of Aikido was developed by by Morihei Ueshiba almost a century ago. Aikido is often translated as ‘The way of unifying life energy’. This style is often mistakenly confused with Judo or Kendo Bogu. It’s unique form uses the force and motion of the attacker and re-directs it instead of attacking it head on.

These techniques use turning movements, throws and joint locks to manipulate opponents. One of Ueshiba’s most famous sayings is “To control aggression without inflicting injury is the Art of Peace.“ which perfectly sums up the philosophy behind Aikido. Some of the other recognizable and different elements that separate Aikido from other forms of martial arts are the wooden sword/ bokkens or sticks used in weapons training as well as the ‘Hakama’ which is often commented on because it looks like a dress or skirt.