TESTIMONIALS

As part of a young family with a busy schedule finding time to exercise is extremely difficult. Joining Kaizen-Do Karate has given me the ability to exercise with my daughter Molly who is 5. Training together allows us to both exercise and learn new skills while spending quality time with each other. Sensei Dervish makes each lesson interesting and engaging for both Molly and myself.
Paul Lees

Richard our son has been a member of Kaizen-Do Karate for 17months. We value this club, its practises and ethics. Sensei Dervish is focused, driven and committed to his team. There is always a good atmosphere, coupled with Sensei?s resourceful sense of humour and enthusiasm, the students find him resolute, yet fun. Such a positive influence in today?s society is a huge help to any parent. Thank you, for all his achievements. Kind regards
Lynn and Glen Mckenny

After many years of watching endless Karate, Kung Fu & Martial Arts films aspiring to be the next Jean Claude Van Dan, I eventually got off my backside and started to look around for a suitable Martial Arts club to study one of the great ancient arts. I looked at Judo, Aikido, Ju-Jitsu & Tae-Kwon-Do, however all the clubs that I visited couldn?t really offer me and my son what we were looking for. In my search for the ultimate Martial Arts Club, I came across the ?Kaizendo Karate Black Belt Academy? with instructor Sensei Dervish, this was not only just local to my home, but had everything that I was looking for in a club ? a friendly, family atmosphere, training five days a week, and still retaining the traditional values and hard training disciplines of Japanese Karate. I was physically fit before joining Kaizendo, however Karate taken my fitness to new levels ? Both Mentally and Physically!! ! This has had added effects on my personal wellbeing, and has also given me greater mental strength to be able to focus my mind and achieve anything in life. Every lesson is informative and exciting. Teaching everyday life skills to survive in this ever changing world. I have set myself the goal of achieving the exclusive Black Belt before Dec 2010 ? This is an achievable goal with constant training and help from Sensei Dervish at Kaizendo Karate……. Be it Self Defence to Sparing or just Traditonatial Kata?s – Rochdale Kaizendo Karate has it all ! ! !
Robert Nicholson

I joined Kaizen Do Karate about 18 months ago for a number of reasons. I wanted to get fit and although I do go to the gym (on occasions) I needed that extra push and I saw the advert for Kaizen Do Karate. As a female on my own I also wanted some sort of self defence training just in case the worst should happen and I ever needed it. The lessons themselves are very structured but flexible. One minute you could be bouncing up and down throwing a punch as fast as you can the next you are trying to remember the intricate moves of a kata sequence. It suits people from as young as 4-5 to the more mature adults amoungst us. Sensei Dervish has the ability and the discipline to keep everyone moving and progressing at the pace they should be whilst keeping them on track to achieve the next grade. As everyone, I suppose, I am looking forward to the day I achieve my black belt. Although it will be many years down the line I’m sure I will still be at the academy and thanking Sensei Dervish!!!
Le-Ann Roberts

My boy’s only hobbies were paying on the Play Station 3, playing on the computer, watching football. Over the years I had tried all sort of sport with them, taking them swimming this was fine in the summer but in the cold winter months they refused to go, who could blame them the swimming pool would be freezing! I kitted them up and took them boxing! My boys loved it and were doing really well, until I went early to pick them up from the club and notice older youths selling drugs and just hanging around club. I didn’t want my children getting mixed up in all that so I had to pull them out of that club. I couldn’t find a club that dint have that kind of culture associated with it! Until I found kaizen do karate; nothing gets passed Sensei Dervish there are no youths hanging around this clubs. He actively goes that extra mile for my children. If I have any concerns or issues he works with me to resolve them. My boys are getting the exercise they need; they look forward to going to Karate class. The ethos of the club is excellent for my children. I never worry about them now as I know Sensei Dervish looks out for all the children in the club. If you want to see positive change in your children, or your children need a positive role model. Then send them to Kaizen Do Karate I did and my boys are progressing well.
Shagufta Aslam

For us these has been one of the best experiences we’ve ever had, and the fact that both of us can enjoy the pleasure of exercising in the same class brought more to it. I share these feelings with all my friends and acquaintances about how these experience has given so much enjoyment to me and Davi, especially because I can see how Davi has become more confident and as soon a lesson finishes the first think he asks me is ” Mum are we come back tomorrow?”. Thank you very much for providing these wonderful opportunity to enjoy healthy life style, confidence boosting, behaviour management, encouraging, fun, with my son.
Elisabete & Davi Garcia

Although an experienced Martial Artist in the past I have recently started again after a long absence, The Kaizen-Do Academy is an ideal club in which to do this. Sensei Dervish has proven to be adaptable as an instructor, allowing me to progress at my own pace, as well as keep to his overall structured program. This has allowed me to feel that I am progressing back to the standard I was and also keeping me interested. I would highly recommend Kaizen-Do to anyone like myself who has had experience in the past and is looking to return to Martial Arts. There is a very good relationship between all the adults in the club, with a great sense of camaraderie regardless of level or ability, which is a factor I have not always found at clubs I have attended in the past. Like a number of the adults at the club, my children also attend allowing us to share an interest as family and helping to keep us active.
Matthew Dowman

From Jessica’s point of view, Saturday mornings was a ‘holy’ time to be spent paying homage to whatever nuggets of wisdom shone forth from the TV. Now, from a parents perspective, lets face it, it’s the easy option. But, something had to be done as every other sentence was starting to sound like an excerpt from “insert name of your most annoying American kids TV show’ We had started hearing about a brand new Karate club that was about to start over at the lake called “Kaizen-Do” Hmmmm says we. So, a small amount of bribery later we took her over to see what she thought. To cut a long story short. She really did take to it & GENUINLY loves it! In all the time she’s been attending, not once has she come away unhappy. She always comes away smiling. She’s never really lacked ‘people’ skills, but I feel since starting Kaizen-Do, she has become a more confident person and exhibits a better sense of discipline and self-control. The fact that she thoroughly enjoys it speaks volumes about Sensei Dervish, his enthusiasm, dedication, teaching abilities and the way he runs what is a very professional club. He has the rare talent of being able to successfully communicate to all ages and abilities in a thorough and engaging manor. It is very apparent that he lives and breathes Karate. The enthusiasm and dedication he brings seems to rub off on his students as they all seem eager to better themselves & all seem to prosper under his guidance. Another thing I’ve noticed is the way he looks after all his students. Every single student is important to him & he is always willing to listen and act on any concerns students (or parents) may have. Bottom line is that we are immensely pleased with Kaizen-Do, and how Jess has progressed and what she’s achieved and would thoroughly recommend anyone of any age or ability to give it a try. Chris & Karen Brandon
Chris & Karen Brandon

Gwilym is really enjoying his karate lessons especially 1:1 tuition; I personally have seen a difference with Gwilyms concentration and confidence… I think I have finally found the class that is going to help him best, he has never enjoyed sport before except swimming and is an excellent all round swimmer, and if he puts the determination into Karate that he has with his swimming then I am sure we will be on our way to a black belt.
Nicola Evans

My sons Daniel 6, Josh 4, and I have now attended Kaizen Do Karate since July of 2013. This has had a really positive impact on our lives and provided me with an activity that I have been able to share with my 2 boys. We initially wanted to find something for Daniel, who being one of the youngest people in his class had sometimes suffered from a lack of confidence. He had never been interested in the typical team sports such as football, and we wanted to find him something outside of school, that he would enjoy and would engage him. Just by chance I had attended one of the many Birthday parties and was talking to Sensei Havenhand who recommended that myself and Daniel should come to the Academy to have a free trial. I booked the session for Daniel, and when we arrived the Sensei asked if I would like to join in the session, as they very much encourages family’s participation. After the session Daniel and I really enjoyed and joined. We initially started with 2 classes a week but very quickly found this to be extremely rewarding and enjoyable and have since both increased our classes, Daniel to 3 times a week and I have joined the Black belt Fastrack programme, which has enabled me to attend unlimited classes and progress relatively quickly, even joining the squad team were I competed last year in Sheffield.I can see a real different in Daniel with his confidence and concentration, and as for myself, my fitness level has improved significantly and has helped provide further motivation to quit smoking. (Which I have now done for over 12 months)Our youngest son Josh attends the Little Ninja’s Class once a week and loves it, they are not only taught about Karate but also about respect, manners, friendship and concentration.Kaizen Do Karate is a warm and friendly environment and the Sensei’s are approachable, helpful and knowledgeable. The classes are fun and provide variety, which provides the motivation to want to attend again and again. I have always said since joining Kaizen Do I regret not having done this many years sooner, I have previously had and cancelled a number Gym memberships wanting to get fit, Kaizen Do provide something much more, a goal to aim for with regular belt gradings, a friendly social environment, plus an activity that keeps you extremely fit, not to mention to mention self-defence skills.In a very positive way this really has taken over our family, and most importantly has had a really positive influence on our boys with their confidence, listening and concentration, they genuinely look forward to going to the club and progressing through the belts and my wish absolutely is that this may continue and they progress to achieving their black belts and beyond in time.
Sean Clowes

Thanks to all of the team at Kaizen-Do Karate for everything you do for Natasha it is a fantastic club. Natasha is doing so well she does unlimited classes most nights of the week and hopes to achieve her Black Belt in December. Natasha also loves being on the squad team and winning gold for her club. I would recommend this Academy to everyone, you are never too old .They are open 7 days a week with lots of classes for all the family.
Vanessa Watkins

Although an experienced Martial Artist in the past I have recently started again after a long absence, The Kaizen-Do Academy is an ideal club in which to do this. Sensei Dervish has proven to be adaptable as an instructor, allowing me to progress at my own pace, as well as keep to his overall structured program. This has allowed me to feel that I am progressing back to the standard I was and also keeping me interested. I would highly recommend Kaizen-Do to anyone like myself who has had experience in the past and is looking to return to Martial Arts. There is a very good relationship between all the adults in the club, with a great sense of camaraderie regardless of level or ability, which is a factor I have not always found at clubs I have attended in the past. Like a number of the adults at the club, my children also attend allowing us to share an interest as family and helping to keep us active.
Matthew Dowman

Both my son’s and I joined the Academy about six months ago; we all really look forward to going to lessons. My boys do two lessons a week and are progressing well, I try to do three lessons to try and get/keep fit. All our fitness has improved and we have all moved on to our yellow belts now and hope to have our orange before Christmas. Sensei Dervish make’s all lessons fun so it makes you want to go to all the lessons you can. Both my boys are benefiting from the respect and confidence from doing karate that we are noticing in all aspects of their lives at school and home. The Academy really has improved our lives.
Danny Stewart and the boys

Finnley has attended the little ninja’s class since June 2013. His confidence has really improved and he has learned a lot about respect for others and social interaction. As a parent I am very proud of his achievements at Karate so far. The highly professional instructors show a high level of skill and patience while teaching such a young group of children. I would recommend this Academy to any parent who wants their child to learn a new skill, while having great fun and doing something a bit different.
John Gregg

My three children Niamh, Patrick & Sean have attended sessions for a few months and they all really enjoy training and learning new skills. Each session builds their basic skills and allows them to develop at their own pace. I would recommend this Academy as it is very family friendly. All the staff have a fantastic manner and the children feel very much that they can ask for help should they need it. Niamh, Patrick & Sean are motivated and encouraged by the staff and making progress towards their next belt. There is excellent communication from the club with emails, the website, letters and access to their you tube channel to support the children’s learning.
Mrs Allen

I’m Emma Gillatt, an adult currently on the Black Belt Fastrack programme. I have been attending the Academy for approx 12 months. I show focus & determination by attending at least 3 times a week including seminars. I also make sure I practice regularly at home and take advantage of the private sessions. The Academy has really helped me to work towards my goal of reaching my Black Belt level, as well as helping me get fit as I get older. I began Karate 20 years ago but I never got the chance to go for my Black Belt. Now the Academy has inspired me to try again, 2nd time lucky. The best thing at the Academy for me is the new wonderful friends I have made, everyone is so welcoming and supportive.
Emma Gillatt

I am the grandfather to Ben Hutchins & Millie Hutchins, Ben has been a member of Kaizen-Do Karate for 2.5 years and Millie just over 12 months. In that time Ben has made brown belt at the age of 7 and Millie white/yellow stripe age 5. This club is a very family friendly group with brilliant staff both on the matts and behind the counter. Nothing is too much trouble and you know that your family are safe. If asked I would highly recommend Kaizen-Do to anybody.
Roy Trent

I’ve had a very positive introduction with Kaizen-Do so far. My boy, Calvin (4), went for a brief intro session with Sensei Dervish and loved it. We took him back on Wednesday and there was a big group (bigger than usual) and Calvin was a little shy. There was an older boy helping out who came to help Calvin get involved (awesome!) and not only that – Sensei Dervish remembered Calvin by name… along with all the other kids there too. Now, given I can hardly remember what day it is most of the time, I thought that was incredible. Very positive start. Got a call from Sensei today to check how it went and we are going to enrol Calvin this week. I sincerely recommend it Kaizen-Do from my first impressions. Imagine if everyone took their kids to Karate to learn discipline, manners, sharing and to get fit… our society would be totally ace!
Colin Clarke

Having a son who has tried numerous activities including football, swimming etc, We decided on trying karate and after speaking with Sensei Dervish we enrolled Alex on to 2 lessons per week. He still has a few teething problems but his attitude at home and school is getting a lot better. Hopefully with the encouragement of all at Kaizen-Do and at home we have finally found an activity that suits Alex’s personality.
Dave Chisnall (Alex Chisnall)

Richard our son has been a member of Kaizen-Do Karate for 17months. We value this club, its practises and ethics. Sensei Dervish is focused, driven and committed to his team. There is always a good atmosphere, coupled with Sensei?s resourceful sense of humour and enthusiasm, the students find him resolute, yet fun. Such a positive influence in today?s society is a huge help to any parent. Thank you, for all his achievements. Kind regards
Lynn and Glen Mckenny

I am just going to say a few words about this fantastic karate club ‘Kaizen-Do’. I have seen so much improvement in what Nikki and Shezi have achieved since joining in November, their knowledge of so many skills is amazing, they are constantly practising at home and watching you tube to learn their new kata which is inspired by Sensei Dervish’s teaching and encouragement. Nikki has asthma which has been difficult to control but since coming to Kaizen-Do her own confidence has improved and now she is able to cope with it much better. Shezi is quite a shy little boy whom we have all seen grow in confidence especially since moving from Little Ninjas to Junior Dragons he tries so hard at everything he is taught and he is on a mission to be star of the class, he has been unable to do a sit up until today when he mastered it and he was so proud of himself. Also I recommend the birthday parties, Shezi celebrated his 5th birthday and it was amazing he was smiling from beginning to end. So from myself, Nikki and Shezi I say a big thank you to Sensei Dervish and all his staff xxx
Beena Siddiqi

My son has been coming to the academy for the last few months and it has made a massive difference to him. My son is mildly autistic so mixing with others can be a problem from time to time. It has made a big improvement in his general behaviour especially in school. Outstanding value for money, I would pay double.
Christine South

The Academy offers excellent tuition, good times for young children to train and a great atmosphere. The Academy also gives people confidence and instils respect in young children. The instructor or instructors teach the class but monitors individuals. There is also good coffee for spectators. Overall a brilliant club. David & Rachel Jones
David & Rachel Jones

Myself and my eldest daughter Jodie (7) joined Kaizen-Do Karate in September 2009 on recommendation from Jodie’s school friend .Although not totally new to karate as we had previously trained at another club we were pleasantly surprised with the family orientation of Kaizen-Do and in addition the variety of the stimulating training methods. Sensei Dervish delivers training sessions which are diverse and suitable for all the students. Another of my girls Carly (4) has progressed from the excellent ‘Little Ninjas’ programme and now trains on a regular basis with the mixed classes. Both girls are becoming more confident, disciplined and learning how to defend themselves should the need arise. My wife Rebecca is also a member of the Academy. We feel, as parents, Kaizen-Do Karate has given our family increased fitness as well as mental alertness and discipline. I would recommend any parent or adult who brings their children to the Academy to give it a go and reap the rewards.
Chris & Rebecca Mills

My son, Samuel has been attending classes for six weeks now & he can’t wait for Monday to come around so he can attend his favourite lesson. It is the most well organised, fun, yet disciplined class for young people that I have been to with him. I am the head of a primary school and appreciate the classes and the benefits that all the students receive. Sensei Dervish has an excellent manner with the children and appears totally committed to his organisation.
Mrs Kelly