Karate
The University of Birmingham Karate Club offers a welcoming, supportive space for everyone — from complete beginners to experienced karateka. Led by qualified coaches, our structured sessions help members develop their skills, improve fitness, challenge themselves and take meaningful breaks from studying.
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For those interested in competing, we provide opportunities at both local and national levels, including BUCS, the British University Championships and the Birmingham Karate Open.
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Beyond training, the club has a strong social side, with activities throughout the year such as laser tag, crazy golf and pub trips, giving members plenty of chances to connect and build friendships outside the dojo. Whether you’re new to karate or looking to progress further, the club is open to all and excited to welcome new members.
Head coach – Mairi Kerin
Club President: Jack Maher
Secretary: Fiona Shaw
Inclusion: Katie Pollock
Our Club
UoB Karate is a welcoming, ambitious and supportive community for both beginners and experienced karateka. Members can progress through grades, develop their skills and take part in regular training and competition. The club competes at local and national events, including BUCS and the British University Championships, where we’ve consistently ranked in the top three for five consecutive years, with members regularly medalling in both senior and novice Kumite and Kata. Some members also compete internationally, representing the University at the Student European Championships and even travelling to Japan to train and compete.
We train twice a week during term time, with an additional independent session every other Saturday. With 40+ members attending regularly, there’s always someone new to learn from and train with. The club prides itself on a positive, uplifting culture where members support each other, celebrate achievements and quickly become part of a close‑knit community.
Beyond training, UoB Karate offers a variety of socials throughout the year — from laser tag and crazy golf to pub trips and club nights — helping members build friendships and find a genuine family away from home. Whether your goal is to earn your next belt, compete, stay active or simply join a welcoming community, there’s a place for you here.
Facilities
Dojo
Our Dojo is a purpose built facility within Sport & Fitness.
Performance Gym
Our state-of-the-art gym and performance gym is available for all your strength and conditioning needs.
Training Times
- Monday: 6.00pm - 8.00pm
- Thursday: 6.00pm - 8.00pm
- Saturday: 11.30am - 1.00pm (bi-weekly)
Competition Opportunities
UoB Karate offers members the chance to compete at a wide range of levels, including the BUCS Karate National Championships.
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Throughout the year, we maintain a strong presence at events across the country, from local competitions to international‑level tournaments.
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We also proudly host the annual Birmingham Karate Open, an inclusive event where dojos from across the region come together and both beginners and senior competitors showcase their skills here at the University.
Membership Price
Memberships are available to students and non-students
As part of signing up to a Sports Club you are agreeing to the Sport and Fitness Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, Sports Club Code of Conduct and other UoB Sport & Fitness policies. Click here to head to Sports Club Benefits to read them.
£135 yearly student membership
£170 yearly community membership
£80 term two student membershipÂ
*This is an approximate list of what the club membership may include. This can change at any point, so please confirm with the club directly on what this membership includes.
Inclusion, Accessibility and Disability Practices
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The Karate Club is deeply committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion, implementing a variety of initiatives to support mental health, accessibility, and community engagement. The club actively participates in Movember, using their “Mo Space” fundraising page to raise awareness for men’s mental health. Events such as the Big Movember Pub Quiz and an inter-martial arts football match further contribute to this cause. Additionally, the club works to bridge the experience gap by ensuring that novice athletes receive tailored training alongside national-level competitors, resulting in multiple BUCS medals for beginner-level karatekas.
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The club addresses language barriers among its international members by fostering a sense of unity through music, which enhances productivity and team morale. Efforts to promote mental health awareness include providing access to resources and participation in UB Sport’s anti-hazing seminar. Members also engage in breast cancer awareness initiatives, symbolically dressing in pink for training sessions. Religious sobriety is respected through non-alcoholic social events such as climbing trips, coffee catch-ups, and mini-golf outings. The club prioritizes safety at sports nights by limiting pre-event activities to students only, ensuring a secure environment for all. Additionally, financial support is available for those unable to afford competition-related expenses, and the club facilitates bulk kit orders to reduce costs.
