About Us
ABOUT US
Active Hertfordshire Karate
Active Hertfordshire Karate is home to 17 thriving clubs across the county, united by a shared passion for traditional Shotokan Karate. Whether you’re 5 or 65, a complete beginner or someone returning to training, you’re welcome to join us at any time of the year.
We take pride in our heritage – our very first club opened its doors in 1984, and since then we’ve grown steadily, building a friendly, inclusive community where students can challenge themselves, build confidence, and achieve their goals.
One of the things that makes us unique is our instructors’ journey. Every one of our instructors started as a beginner, just like you will when you first step on the mat. They know first-hand the patience, dedication, and perseverance it takes to succeed – and they’re committed to guiding you every step of the way.
All our instructors have completed, or are working towards, our Active Hertfordshire Karate Instructor Programme, ensuring a high standard of teaching across all clubs. They hold current Enhanced DBS (CRB) checks, are fully insured, and many have First Aid qualifications. Several have gone on to establish their own clubs, while choosing to remain proudly under the Active Hertfordshire Karate quality brand – a mark of consistency, safety, and excellence in training.
Whether you’re looking to improve fitness, learn self-defence, or progress through the karate belt system toward black belt and beyond, our clubs provide the perfect environment to develop your skills while making new friends and having fun.
Building Confidence, Discipline, and Strength for All Ages
At AHK martial arts is more than just kicks and punches — it’s about building confidence, focus, respect, and community. Whether you’re looking for a fun activity for your child, a way for your teen to grow in discipline, an empowering challenge for yourself, or a family activity that strengthens your bond, we have a program for you.
Our Programs
🥋 Karate For Kids
Help your child develop confidence, focus, and respect while having fun! Our kids’ classes are designed to build essential life skills, improve coordination, and encourage a healthy, active lifestyle.
🥋 Karate For Teens
Our teen program blends traditional karate discipline with modern training techniques to boost self-esteem, improve fitness, and provide a positive outlet for energy.
🥋 Karate For Adults
It’s never too late to start your martial arts journey! Our adult classes combine self-defense skills, fitness, and stress relief in a supportive environment for all experience levels.
🥋 Karate For Families
Why not train together? Our family classes bring parents and children into the dojo side-by-side, building skills and memories while keeping everyone active and motivated.
The People Behind Active Hertfordshire Karate
Sensei Roy Hazelwood – Our Chief Instructor, 8th Dan Black Belt, has trained in Shotokan Karate since 1979. A veteran of National and European competitions, he has trained in Japan and with some of the world’s leading Shotokan masters. Known for his exceptional knowledge, passion, and patient teaching style, Roy inspires students of all ages to achieve their best.
Wendy Hazelwood – Training since 1988 under Sensei Roy, Wendy brings her background in teaching and personal development to the motivational side of our group. She leads our Junior Achievement and Junior Instructor programmes, helping young students develop both their karate skills and understanding of the Dojo Kun.
Together, Roy and Wendy have built strong links with local schools and community groups, welcoming students of all abilities – including those with learning differences – to discover the benefits of Shotokan Karate.
We’re proud of the service we provide, but don’t just take our word for it — see what our happy students have to say in the reviews below!
Our Karate Club Locations
Train with us at a location near you. We run karate classes across Hertfordshire and the surrounding areas, making it easy to find a time and place that fits your schedule.
✅ Karate in Langford – Monday evenings
✅ Karate in Ashwell – Saturday evening
✅ Karate in Letchworth – Sunday mornings & Friday evenings
✅ Karate in Hitchin – Wednesday evenings
✅ Karate in Stevenage – Thursday evenings
✅ Karate in Welwyn Garden City – Saturday mornings/afternoon & Wednesday evenings
✅ Karate in Harpenden – Saturday afternoons
✅ Karate in Hemel Hempstead – Thursday evenings
✅ Karate in Watford – Sunday afternoon & Tuesday evenings