Training fees for Michaelmas 2025 - Easter 2026

Find below our current fees scheme:

Please fill out the following form no later than after your second session: Membership form

Kit

We order the majority of our equipment through the martial arts suppliers Blitz and since we are a registered organisation we are able to offer discounted prices on kit. The following comprise the essential items that the club regularly orders. Blitz has an extensive catalogue however, so we can order other items on request.

If you would like to order kit or if you have any questions about kit please contact the Vice-President. Big kit orders are usually made once a term (usually a few weeks in, via the mailing list), and are where beginners can claim their free gi/white belt. For beginners who join later in the term, contact the vice-president as they will often have some gi in stock for you to claim. Please ask about the availability of other martial-arts related items, e.g. bo, pads, break boards etc. Please also have a look at our stash collection!

Common Kit Questions

What kit do I require for lessons?

At a white belt level, you can train in whatever is comfortable for you. Past that, any white karategi is acceptable, and colour belts can be bought in the termly kit order, or elsewhere. For kumite (sparring) sessions you should bring mitts and a gumshield. Occasionally, sparring may take place during general sessions — especially before Varsity or BUCS. If you don’t have mitts or a gumshield, techniques will be adapted to be non-contact and avoid strikes to the head.

What kit do I require for varsity?

For kata, any white gi is acceptable, and glasses are allowed if they are held in place securely. For kumite, under JKA rules, mitts and gum shields are required, and chest and groin protectors are allowed.

What kit do I require for BUCS?

For kumite, mitts, gum shields, foot and shin pads, and ladies chest protectors are compulsory. Groin guards are advised, and chest protectors are allowed. In addition, competitors must only wear insignia of their institutions on all clothing including the gi. No insignia of style, nation, federation or association will be allowed.

What are the differences between all the karategi types?

The largest practical difference they will make in training will be how hot you may feel. Lightweight or breathable gi will be cooler. Middle or heavyweight gi will make louder noises and may be more durable – some prefer the weight of a heavier gi and feel that the snap sounds help them gauge how fast they are moving. A "Japanese cut" usually means the sleeves and trousers will end a little above the wrists/ankles – again, some prefer this, but with Blitz the difference of this cut is not too externally noticeable.

Kit Prices

Kit prices below are indicative, being the prices which were in force at the last bulk kit order.