About NKJ

Welcome to Nova Karate Jutsu (NKJ), formerly Bedford West Shotokan Karate.  We are a non-profit organization dedicated to teaching the practical application of Karate. Our curriculum aims to develop well-rounded martial artists.

The club is instructed by Andy Allen, 7th degree black belt and Jake Crawford, 6th degree black belt and was opened in September 2016.

Why the name change?

When Bedford West Shotokan Karate opened in 2016, the original goal was to balance a Shotokan grading syllabus with practical training.  The club evolved over time in to focus more on practical karate. In Jan 2020, the club left the International Shotokan Karate Federation and joined the World Combat Association with a practical and comprehensive grading syllabus.  Although our roots are with Shotokan, our daily teaching pedagogy has little in common with typical 3K karate. In spring 2021, the club adopted a new name, Nova Karate Jutsu. Nova as in, Nova Scotia is Latin for new. Jutsu is appropriate for a martial art that focusses efficacy. We have not lost the philosophy found in the dojo kun passed down from Gichin Funakoshi.

Training at NJK

At Nova Karate Jutsu, tradition is made practical. NKJ is dedicated to teaching karate with an emphasis on the practical application of kata for the purpose of self-defense. Kata are pre-arranged forms of numerous karate techniques including punches, kicks, strikes, joint locks, chokes,  limb control and throws. Typical training at NKJ  includes kata (forms),  bunkai (kata application) and other two-person drills, pad work, kumite (sparring),  kihon (basics) and grappling (clinch work, throws and groundwork).

NKJ, a not-for-profit organization, was founded in September of 2016 and is affiliated with the World Combat Association (WCA). Many of the club's members have had their introduction to martial arts at Charles P Allen High School or Lockview High School where Martial Arts 11, a credit course, is offered.  We have a range of ranks at NKJ from beginners to black belt. Beginning students receive instruction catered to their needs and are integrated into the regular class as they progress.  We have two black belt instructors so you are sure to get the feedback you need to improve.

When training, there must be a balance between practicality and safety.  Safety is always paramount and students are always expected to train accordingly.  However, with martial arts training there is always an inherent risk of injury.

Whether you are looking for fitness, self-defense or self-improvement, NKJ is for you.  Interested in joining? Don't hesitate to contact us for more information!

Andy Allen, head instructor.