Business Details
17 Years
experience
Martial Arts Training for All Ages in Basingstoke
Shin Gi Tai Martial Arts Academy has been dedicated to enhancing lives through martial arts for over 30 years. Established in 1991 and operating from a purpose-built facility in Basingstoke since 2009, we provide inclusive, high-quality training for all ages and abilities. Our team of DBS-checked, nationally qualified coaches combines traditional martial arts principles with modern sports science to deliver programmes in Karate, Kung Fu, Judo, Tai Chi, and more. With a focus on personal development, physical fitness, and community, we cater to individuals and families seeking self-defence skills, competitive training, or holistic well-being.Our state-of-the-art training centre features specialist flooring, comprehensive equipment, and accessible classes, including adaptive options for wheelchair users. Recognised for excellence in coaching and safeguarding, we hold regular gradings and competitions, fostering a supportive environment where members achieve black belts and lifelong confidence. As a family-run business, we prioritise inclusivity, ensuring everyone feels welcome regardless of age, gender, or ability.
Services
Karate Classes
Kung Fu Training
Judo Sessions
Tai Chi Lessons
Kickboxing Workouts
Children's Martial Arts
Family Classes
Fitness Circuits
Self-Defence Courses
Wheelchair Martial Arts
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience delivering martial arts instruction with nationally qualified coaches.
- Our purpose-built facility features specialist flooring and equipment for safe, effective training.
- We offer inclusive programmes tailored to individual needs, including adaptive classes for wheelchair users.
- All coaches hold enhanced DBS checks, first aid certifications, and formal martial arts coaching qualifications.
- We combine traditional martial arts principles with modern sports science for holistic development.
What people say
Highly talented coaches
Age-appropriate, fun sessions
Builds confidence and discipline
Supportive community environment
Excellent facilities
Services
Karate Classes
Our Karate classes combine traditional techniques with modern coaching methods to develop physical fitness, self-discipline, and self-defence skills. Students learn structured forms (Kata), sparring techniques, and fundamental blocks and strikes. The programme builds confidence through progressive belt rankings, with regular gradings conducted by senior examiners. Classes cater to all ages and abilities, from beginners to advanced practitioners seeking black belt certification.
Children's Martial Arts
Age-specific martial arts programmes for children aged 4-17 focus on physical development, character building, and self-protection. Our Rising Heroes (4-6), Young Legends (6-9), and Urban Warriors (10-14) classes use games and drills to teach coordination, focus, and respect. The curriculum addresses anti-bullying strategies, online safety, and emotional resilience while maintaining a fun, engaging environment that promotes lifelong healthy habits.
Tai Chi Lessons
Our Tai Chi classes teach the gentle, flowing movements of this traditional Chinese martial art to improve balance, flexibility, and mental well-being. Instructors guide students through slow, controlled motions that enhance body awareness and reduce stress. The programme includes seated Tai Chi options for wheelchair users, making this meditative practice accessible to all ages and physical conditions while maintaining authentic martial arts principles.
Fitness Circuits
Martial Music Blast (MMB) fitness classes blend martial arts techniques with high-energy music for a full-body workout. Participants perform punches, kicks, and stretches in choreographed routines that improve cardiovascular fitness, strength, and coordination. The non-contact format allows all fitness levels to participate at their own intensity, with standing or seated options available to ensure accessibility for diverse participants.
Wheelchair Martial Arts
Specially designed martial arts programmes for wheelchair users include seated Karate, Kung Fu, and Tai Chi instruction. Coaches adapt techniques to individual capabilities while maintaining authentic martial arts principles. The curriculum develops upper body strength, core stability, and self-defence skills through modified striking, blocking, and movement patterns. Both in-person and online options ensure accessibility for participants with mobility challenges.
People
Bryan Andrews
Head Coach
With over 40 years of martial arts experience, Bryan holds 7th Dan in Karate and 7th Degree in Kung Fu. He has won multiple national and international titles and holds a Master's degree in Advanced Sport Coaching Practice. As a former Basingstoke Sports Coach of the Year, he specialises in developing students' technical skills and personal growth.
William Andrews
Lead Coach
Specialising in children's martial arts and boxing, William holds a 2nd Degree Black Belt in Chinese Kickboxing and England Boxing qualifications. He combines martial arts expertise with Level 3 personal training credentials to develop strength and conditioning programmes, having won British Sanda championships in the <60Kg category.
Mandi Miles
Club Business Manager
As a 2nd Dan Karate and Kung Fu black belt, Mandi leads ladies' classes and adaptive martial arts programmes. A former World Karate Champion (2016) and European Champion (2017), she ensures class structures align with educational key stages while serving as the club's Lead Welfare Officer.
Oliver Andrews
Lead Coach
Holding black belts in Karate and Kung Fu, Oliver specialises in MMA, Muay Thai, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. With a degree in Strength and Conditioning from St Mary's University, he designs long-term training plans for members while teaching in Kingston upon Thames children's classes.
Neil Walker
Lead Coach
A 3rd Dan Black Belt with expertise in Karate, Kung Fu, and Tai Chi, Neil has taught Karate since 2005. Known for technical precision and relaxed coaching style, he focuses on detailed technique instruction while working towards his 4th Dan qualification.
Questions
What martial arts do you teach?
We offer Karate, Kung Fu, Judo, Tai Chi, and Kickboxing classes for all ages, plus adaptive programmes for wheelchair users.
What age can children start martial arts training?
Our Rising Heroes programme accepts children from 4 years old, with age-specific classes up to 17 years.
Do you offer self-defence training?
Yes, we teach practical self-defence skills focusing on situational awareness, de-escalation techniques, and physical protection.
Are classes suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely. Our inclusive approach ensures beginners of all ages receive tailored instruction to build skills progressively.
What facilities do you have available?
Our 14m x 18m training area features specialist martial arts flooring, 19 punchbags, grappling dummies, and fitness equipment.
Do you offer family martial arts classes?
Yes, we provide family sessions where parents and children can train together in a supportive environment.
Videos
