Affiliations

Japan Karatedo Itosu-kai (JKI)
Itosu-ryu Karatedo International Federation (IKIF) – founding member
Irish Martial Arts Commission (IMAC)

The association was founded in 1976 in Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. Itosu-kai karate caters equally for male and female students and classes are structured to cater for all ages and abilities. We are the Irish branch of Itosu-ryu Karatedo International Federation (IKIF). For more in depth information on the IKKI association, go to the “About” page.

The IKKI is composed of nine dojos in Ireland. All IKKI black belt instructors have been graded through the official IKKI syllabus and validated by the IKIF in Japan. We hold black belt gradings once per year and three colour belt gradings per year. It generally takes 5+ years to achieve black belt status, this is based on our syllabus and 2 classes per week (3-4hrs karate). Our colour belt system runs from white (beginner) to yellow, orange, green, blue, brown, brown with black stripe (shodan-ho) and black (shodan). The colour belt system is very useful as it immediately identifies skill level and motivates students to achieve the next level. Also, there are then many levels of black belt, 1st Dan, 2nd Dan etc. Students for black belt advancement are selected based on their skill level, dedication and contribution to Itosu-kai in Ireland. We hold two national tournaments per year, refereeing courses and seminars. The IKKI also has kata and kumite squads where students are selected from their own dojos, attend dedicated squad classes for more advanced training. This is the pathway for students wishing to represent Ireland at higher level competition for either IKKI/IKIF.

Remember: Karate is not just about “combat”

Karate is the ultimate in unarmed self-defence
Karate is one of the most balanced and complete ways of keeping in good physical condition
Karate is a way of increasing one’s confidence and self-esteem
Karate is a bridge to other cultures and times
Karate establishes sense contact with one’s own body
Karate is a means of developing friendship
Karate at its best is a means of gaining self-understanding

The aims and ambitions of the IKKI are to:

• teach the principles of and promote traditional Itosu-ryu karatedo
• provide a safe and secure environment for all our students
• provide high quality karate coaching for all participants
• ensure participants have positive learning experiences through their training
• encourage and motivate students of all ages to succeed in their karate
• coach students to the highest level capable of competing at National, European and World Championship level

IKKI Dojos in Ireland

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Browse our website for more information about venues and dojo class times in your locality by using the “Club” tab.
Thank you for visiting the IKKI website. Sensei Leo Mulvany, Chief Instructor IKKI.
Contact Sensei Leo on: 087 4159858 or email: leotmulvany@gmail.com