Zen Kyo Shin Taijutsu in the UK is a traditional Japanese self‑defence system taught by Sensei Tim at ZKS Martial Arts. This adult program blends stand‑up kumite, practical self‑defence, and foundational grappling. Ideal for students aged 16+, it offers deep progression beyond the junior syllabus.

Class Schedule & Eligibility

• Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8:00 PM
• For individuals aged 16+ (typically transitioning from Year 11 or above)

Belt System & Progression

This program uses the same belt order as our junior classes, but transitions students into senior grades. Mini‑assessments are removed. Belt gradings occur twice annually in January and June, based on readiness. Junior belt holders retain their rank when entering the senior system.

Philosophy & Focus

• Stand‑up kumite (kickboxing)
• Practical self‑defence techniques
• Introductory grappling skills

A non‑competitive martial art focused on fitness, confidence, and real‑world self‑defence—not sport. For competitive grappling, members can attend our separate Havoc Grappling BJJ (Tuesdays & Thursdays).

The Historical Origins of Taijutsu

Though often linked to Japan, martial combat systems similar to Taijutsu trace back to ancient Greece. Pankreato (Pancrase), introduced in the Olympic Games around 648 B.C., featured both strikes and grappling techniques strikingly similar to modern Taijutsu.

In Japan, Master Minoru Mochizuki played a significant role in codifying Taijutsu. He studied Daito Ryu techniques from Master Sokaku Takeda through Morihei Ueshiba (founder of Aikido), preserving Samurai-era unarmed kata distinct from sport-based arts.

The Legacy of ZKS Martial Arts

Our Journey Forward

In the early 1990s, Sensei Ben began training under Sensei Steve Cowley and earned his black belt in Zen Kyo Shin Taijutsu. In 1999, alongside his wife, Sensei Louise, he founded ZKS Martial Arts. Over the years, Sensei Ben grew ZKS into a thriving martial arts school, known for blending tradition with effective modern self-defence. More recently, Sensei Ben has focused his attention on the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu side of ZKS, heading up the Havoc Grappling program for those seeking a more competitive environment.

To preserve and evolve the traditional Taijutsu syllabus, two dedicated instructors have joined him in leading the program:

• Sensei Jim Hey continued his Taijutsu development through another highly regarded Taijutsu organization before returning to ZKS. He brings decades of experience, insight, and precision to his teaching, and is instrumental in guiding adult students through the senior syllabus with clarity and purpose.
• Sensei Timothy Gourley started his martial arts journey as a child at ZKS. Progressing through the junior and adult systems, Timothy became a skilled practitioner in both Taijutsu and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Sensei Ben. He is passionate about martial arts history and brings that depth into his teaching, connecting tradition with modern application.

Together, Sensei Jim and Sensei Timothy carry forward the legacy of Zen Kyo Shin Taijutsu with dedication, passion, and respect for the art's roots. Learn more about each of our instructors below:

Why Young Adults Choose Taijutsu

Zen Kyo Shin Taijutsu offers the perfect balance of challenge, tradition, and real‑world applicability—making it an excellent choice for young adults aged 16 and above. Whether you’re transitioning from school, seeking discipline and structure, or looking to build fitness and self-defence skills, Taijutsu supports your goals.

• Physical Fitness: Improve strength, agility, and endurance through dynamic full‑body workouts.
• Mental Focus: Learn concentration, decision-making under pressure, and situational awareness.
• Practical Self-Defence: Train techniques that work in real‑life scenarios, not just theory or sport.
• Confidence & Control: Gain self-belief, discipline, and a calm approach to conflict.
• Community: Train in a respectful, supportive environment with shared values and clear progression.

If you're a young adult seeking a more intense, sport‑based, and competitive martial arts environment, check out our dedicated Havoc Grappling Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu program. These sessions run every Tuesday and Thursday and are ideal for students interested in competition, ground fighting, and a faster‑paced training experience.

Explore Havoc Grappling