April 4, 2025

Why Karate is the ultimate sport for all ages – with Invicta Karate Academy

Invicta Karate Academy is a once-small karate club turned thriving academy for martial arts enthusiasts of all ages. Led by Toby Price, a highly respected karate expert with a competitive track record, the academy has flourished, shaping students into confident, disciplined and skilled martial artists. From its humble beginnings to a bustling dojo filled with eager learners, the academy’s success is a testament to the power of dedication, community and the timeless appeal of karate. Whether young beginners or seasoned practitioners, students here don’t just learn to fight – they learn to excel in life.

“Karate is an activity that can contribute to and benefit you in many areas of your life outside of the dojo. Whatever age you are, there is something useful for you in it. It has been amazing to see how Invicta has grown from a small village club to an Academy that is now 190 members strong and see the students work hard daily and enjoy themselves.” – Toby Price, founder of Invicta Karate

‘Strength through focus’: About Invicta Karate Academy

Invicta Karate Academy has become a thriving centre for martial arts excellence for students of all ages. With students as young as four progressing through a structured curriculum, the academy provides a clear pathway for development, ensuring that every student is working towards a goal. Even for those who achieve the prestigious black belt, the journey does not stop there – the philosophy of lifelong learning is deeply ingrained in the academy’s ethos.

Invicta’s team of experienced instructors ensures that each student receives high-quality tuition at every level, whether they are just beginning, daily training or competing at a national or international standard. The academy is also home to a talented tournament squad, with students who have gone on to represent England on the international stage. As an accredited member of JKA England (Japan Karate Association), Invicta upholds the highest standards of training, with external examiners ensuring that students progress through a rigorous and globally recognised system.

The Journey Of Toby Price

At the heart of Invicta Karate is its founder and lead instructor, Toby Price. A former Southern Areas Champion, National Champion and England Squad member, Toby’s karate career has been inspiring. His journey began at just four years old, training alongside his sister, who would later go on to achieve equal success in the women’s division and become the current England squad manager. One of Toby’s proudest moments came when he and his sister both won their respective categories at the National Championships, marking a significant milestone for their family. In 2011, he was selected for the England Men’s team at the World Cup in Thailand, an unforgettable experience.

Like many young athletes, Toby stepped away from the sport at 18 to pursue university studies in business and languages. This led to an adventurous career path, including working in Spain as part of a hotel entertainment team, leading coach tours across China, India, America and Europe and even selling sports tours and festival experiences. His outgoing personality and ability to connect with people became key skills that would later shape his approach to coaching.

In 2016, he started a small karate club, which grew rapidly. In 2018, the club was officially named Invicta Karate Academy, and despite the challenges of COVID, it continued to expand. Through online classes, the academy not only survived but thrived, eventually evolving into a full-fledged academy and a Limited company. The transition from a club to an academy symbolises its growth – not just in size but in its ambition and influence within the karate community.

The Benefits of Karate for All Ages

Karate is far more than just a sport – it is a discipline that nurtures both body and mind.

For adults…

Karate provides a structured way to improve fitness, relieve stress, and develop mindfulness. Many students over the age of 30 are now joining, whether to improve physical fitness, revisit a childhood passion or simply challenge themselves with something new. For some, it is about returning to a sport they once loved, while for others, it is the fulfilment of a long-held ambition.

Toby says, “At Invicta, we’re proud of our thriving adult community – many of whom train alongside their children and enjoy the social aspect as much as the physical. From supporting each other in class to connecting at social events, the dojo has become a second home for many families.”

For children…

Karate offers an engaging and enjoyable way to develop essential life skills. Beyond physical fitness, it instils discipline, patience, confidence and focus, helping young students build resilience that extends far beyond the dojo. The physical benefits are also significant – karate helps improve coordination, balance and strength, supporting children’s overall development. At a time when children are often pressured by exams and increasingly drawn to screens, karate provides an essential outlet, offering a balance between physical activity and mental wellbeing.

For both…

Karate fosters physical strength, emotional resilience and a sense of community. The academy promotes the concept of the ‘student-athlete’ – ensuring that students not only excel in sport but also maintain a balanced approach to life, embracing hard work, discipline and respect.