SKDA Karate Association
Founded in 2001, the Shotokan Karate-Do Association (SKDA) was established by Sensei Valman after many years of dedicated training under respected organisations including the JKA, KUGB, and others. With the blessing of his own Sensei, he launched SKDA to bring his own vision of Karate to life.
From its humble beginnings teaching in schools, community centres, and in partnership with charitable organisations across the UK, SKDA has grown into a respected and inclusive Karate association. Sensei Valman has also taught internationally, working alongside various organisations to share his deep knowledge of Karate.
Sensei has spent decades researching the teachings of Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of modern Shotokan Karate, and tracing its traditional roots, from China to Okinawa, and into modern-day Japan. As Shotokan became the most widely practiced style of Karate since the 1960s, many organisations are now looking to reconnect with its origins. At SKDA, we aim to do just that.
We teach a blend of traditional Karate and modern self-defence applications, focusing on practical interpretations of Kata and breaking down common myths. For mature students, we also offer instruction in traditional weapons.
"Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced martial artist, SKDA is open to everyone"
Why Train with SKDA?
Come train with us, we’re here to help you grow in skill, confidence and character through the practice of Karate.(read more)
Sensei Valman began his martial arts journey in 1977 at the Chingford BJA Judo Club. At the age of 14, he witnessed a powerful demonstration by the legendary Enoeda Sensei, which inspired him to join the Karate Union of Great Britain (KUGB). He began training at Marshall Street, the Oasis Sports Centre, and Seymour Leisure Centre in London under the guidance of both Enoeda Sensei and Ohta Sensei, alongside other esteemed KUGB and Japan Karate Association (JKA) instructors of the era.
Driven by a deep passion for martial arts, Sensei Valman travelled extensively across the UK to train with top instructors. He was regularly invited to prestigious clubs such as the Red Triangle in Liverpool and trained under Kawasoe Sensei in Shepherd's Bush. His dedication to continuous improvement took him around the world, where he sought instruction from some of the most respected names in martial arts, including:
Yamazaki Sensei
Kanazawa Sensei
T.Okuyama Sensei
Kagawa Sensei
many more instructors, although too many to mention.
Throughout his career, Sensei Valman has taught in numerous clubs worldwide. In addition to Shotokan Karate, he has studied and taught a wide range of martial arts disciplines, including Shotokai Karate, Judo, Jujitsu, and Kempo. His cross-training has enriched his understanding and teaching methodology, allowing him to adapt and inspire students across various systems.
In 2017, he was awarded his 6th Dan by a senior panel of instructors, including Hanshi Jo Biggs. In 2024, he received his 7th Dan from the World Kobudo Association, recognizing his lifelong commitment to training, international teaching, and his selfless dedication to working in specialist schools with both children and adults.
Since 2001, Sensei Valman has taught martial arts full-time. With decades of experience and a deep commitment to traditional values and modern application, he continues to inspire students of all ages and levels around the globe....(more)