Te-Ashi-Do Karate was founded in 1994 by Mr Mark Fry as a variation of Hon-Te-Ashi-Do as taught by Mr Gary Robins.
Te-Ashi-Do Karate is a rather unique system in that it allows a student to adapt techniques to the way they would find more natural, as opposed to most styles, which adapt the student to the style. This allows for greater variation amongst the students and allows almost any person to get something from training.
The style itself comprises of strike techniques (punches and kicks) which are normally associated with Karate, but also has throws and locks, which are more often found in Judo, take down techniques and holds, which have an Aikido origin, and also an emphasis on gymnastics more commonly seen in Capoiera. This means that a stocky fighter who finds it natural to grab would get as much from Te-Ashi-Do as a flexible fighter, who would find it better to kick.
Te-Ashi-Do also trains in weapon forms, which includes Jo, Escrima, Katana, and Wakazashi. These weapons are only taught on a basic level for self-defence purposes, and do not form a specialist area in themselves.
Training is done for both self-defence and freestyle competition, the latter of which the club has seen good success - very rare for a style that has such a variety! The format of training is nearly always partner work and padwork, with the only Kata's that are done being in weapons. Students are encouraged to grade and compete, but this is by no means vital to training.
Mr Mark Fry currently holds a 4th Dan grade and a level 2 professional coaching qualification, and is proud to be associated with the Northern Sport Karate Association (NSKA) under Mr Darren Ellis 4th Dan.