My name is Lawrence Elcock, founder of Bushido Karate, and I have dedicated over 50 years to the study and teaching of Shotokan Karate. For more than 40 years, I have proudly served the people of Milton Keynes, helping students of all ages build confidence, discipline, respect, and fitness through karate training.

I started Bushido Karate because I wanted to create a traditional and welcoming club where students could learn authentic karate while developing strong character and self-belief. My goal has always been to pass on the values of discipline, respect, perseverance, and self-control that karate has given me throughout my life.

Following my success in winning the ESKA British Championships in kumite, I travelled to Japan during the 1980s to continue my training at the renowned Shotokan Karate International dojo. Training in Japan gave me valuable insight into the traditional roots and spirit of karate, experiences that still influence my teaching today.

For the past eight years, I have also been teaching a karate course in Hawaii, sharing my passion for traditional Shotokan karate with students internationally. Through Bushido Karate, I continue to encourage students to achieve their best both inside and outside the dojo.

“The best teacher is one who, when the work is done, the people say, ‘We did it ourselves.”

Lao Tzu:

Forging strength that lasts a lifetime.

Built for life, not just for the moment.

Tiny Tigers Karate for 5 – 7 year olds

“Fall seven times, stand up eight.” This is the tiny tiger philosophy. Tiny Tigers karate classes for ages 5–8 build confidence, discipline, and focus while improving fitness, coordination, and balance. Children learn respect, self-control, and teamwork in a fun, structured environment. Classes also enhance social skills, listening, and concentration, supporting better behaviour and performance at school and home. Guided by experienced instructors, students grow resilient, positive, and motivated every single week.

Karate for 8-15 Year Olds

Karate offers many benefits for children beyond physical fitness, confidence, and discipline. One of the most valuable is emotional control. Through regular training, children learn how to manage frustration, stay calm under pressure, and control impulsive reactions. These skills can help them cope better with school stress, social situations, and everyday challenges.

Karate also helps improve listening and concentration skills. Children must focus carefully on instructions, react quickly, and pay attention to detail during classes. This increased focus can often carry over into the classroom and support learning at school.

Another important benefit is learning how to set and achieve goals. Progressing through belt grades teaches children the value of patience, dedication, and consistent effort. They learn that success comes from working steadily towards small achievable steps over time.

Karate encourages independence and personal responsibility as well. Children take ownership of their progress and understand that improvement comes through effort and commitment. This can help develop a more positive and proactive mindset in other areas of life.

In addition, karate develops problem-solving and decision-making skills. Students learn to think strategically, adapt to different situations, and respond thoughtfully rather than reacting emotionally. These abilities can build resilience and confidence both inside and outside the dojo.

Karate for Adults & Over 40’s

Karate offers a wide range of benefits for adults, including men, women, and those over 40, that go far beyond fitness alone. One of the greatest advantages is improved mental wellbeing and stress management. Training helps adults release tension, stay focused, and remain calm under pressure, which can have a positive impact on both work and everyday life.

Karate is also an excellent way to improve fitness at any age. Classes help develop strength, flexibility, balance, coordination, and cardiovascular health in a supportive and motivating environment. For adults over 40, regular training can help maintain mobility, posture, and overall energy levels.

Another important benefit is increased confidence and self-belief. Learning new techniques, progressing through belt grades, and achieving personal goals creates a strong sense of accomplishment and motivation. Many adults find karate helps them step outside their comfort zone and gain greater self-confidence both inside and outside the dojo.

Karate also improves focus, concentration, and discipline. Training requires attention to detail, quick thinking, and consistent effort, helping adults sharpen both mental and physical awareness.

In addition, karate provides valuable self-defence skills while encouraging respect, control, and good decision-making. It also offers a welcoming social environment where adults can meet new people, stay active, and enjoy training together regardless of age or previous experience.