Instructor and assistants have training in first aid and instruction. They are also insured.

• Sessions are mainly karate type techniques with some judo, self-defence, holds and releases. Some defence against weapons for higher grades. Paired practise is non contact.
• Speed, accuracy, balance and focus, economical movement rather than just force.
• Control rather than aggression. Non-competitive. 
• A “striking art” although there is no special hardening of fists/feet or breaking wood.
• Students are supervised and only taught to their ability level

Students should:

• Listen to and obey their instructor
• Obey the rules (available on request from instructor)
• Tell instructor of any illness or injury.
• Wear loose clothes, bare feet or thin footwear.
• Do not eat, chew, wear jewellery, have long nails.
• Ask instructor if leaving training area.
• Not “play-fight”

Instructors should:

• Ensure students know guidelines.
• Practise nothing too far beyond student’s ability.
• Do not leave students unsupervised.
• Keep to Risk reduction guidelines – see over
• Check students are acting appropriately.
• Do not intimidate students.
• Keep up-to-date Student File (health, address, contacts) and bring to all sessions.
• Keep register (as students arrive).
• Explain Fire Drill (leave at any exit, assemble in car park, account for all registered)
• Be prepared for injuries to themselves or any student by having first aid training, first aid kit, mobile phone and transport available.
• Phone 999 for serious injury.  If unsure of severity or more than basic first aid needed, patient should be accompanied to WCH Casualty, Penzance.
• If patient refuses treatment they should sign a disclaimer form.

Activities Involving Risk

1. Exercise
2. Technique practice on own
3. Technique practice in groups
4. Falling, rolling and some groundwork
5. Striking: bags, pads, shields etc.
6. Use of weapons.

Risk Reduction Guidelines

1. Exercise: no extreme stamina or stretching. Warm up joints and muscles enough for safe training.
2. Technique practice on own: natural movements within student’s ability
3. Technique practice in groups: students interact using free or preset techniques (“sparring”) There is no contact (striking) although there may be holding, throwing, sweeping or tripping in the higher grades. All interaction is controlled and supervised. Speed is regulated except occasionally amongst the highest grades.
4. Falling, rolling and some groundwork: mats are used. Practise builds so students can fall or roll without injury. Groundwork is holds, locks etc. Care needed to control weight and pressure. Ensure students know “tapping out” (submitting)
5. Striking: bags, pads, shields etc. anything struck is always cushioned. Higher grades are taught how to hold pads and shields, yielding slightly on contact to reduce impact shock on joints. Mitts are used when striking heavier bags – not for juniors.
6. Use of weapons. Only padded sticks, rubber knives etc when partnered.