Kudo branches are officially recognised clubs under the Kudo International Federation (KIF). As registered branches, they have the authority to conduct gradings and are responsible for registering students under their branch with the Federation.
We are committed to maintaining high standards and continuously developing our network of clubs. As part of this commitment, we are working towards achieving Sport England recognition — a mark of quality and credibility in English sport.
To support this goal, all branches are expected to meet certain quality standards and operational requirements, including:
Safe and inclusive coaching environments
Proper student registration and grading protocols
Compliance with KIF guidelines and safeguarding policies
By upholding these standards, we ensure the integrity of Kudo practice across England and support the growth of a trusted and respected martial arts community.
Our Development Groups play a vital role in growing and strengthening the Kudo community across England. These groups are designed for clubs, instructors, and regions that are in the early stages of forming a recognised Kudo branch or are working toward meeting full federation standards.
Development Groups provide a structured pathway for:
New clubs to establish themselves within the Kudo framework
Instructors to access training, mentoring, and federation support
Regions to grow local interest and build toward formal branch recognition
They are supported and overseen by qualified Kudo branch instructors and the national governing team to ensure consistency, safety, and quality in training and student development.
Access to technical seminars and instructor training
Guidance on student registration and grading procedures
Mentorship from established Kudo branches
Help with governance, safeguarding, and facility development
A clear pathway to full Kudo branch status
Development Groups are essential to the future of Kudo in England. They provide opportunities for new areas to grow organically, while ensuring high standards and alignment with the Kudo International Federation (KIF). By investing in Development Groups, we’re investing in the next generation of Kudo students, instructors, and leaders.
Study Groups are the foundation for introducing Kudo to new communities and areas. They provide a flexible and supportive starting point for individuals or small groups who are interested in learning and practicing Kudo before forming an official club or branch.
A Study Group is an informal training group that operates under the guidance of a recognised Kudo instructor or branch. It is ideal for:
Martial arts practitioners exploring Kudo for the first time
Instructors from other styles looking to cross-train or expand
Areas where there is no established Kudo branch yet
Study Groups allow participants to begin training in the core principles, techniques, and values of Kudo in a safe and structured environment.
Regular training support from experienced instructors
Opportunities to attend seminars, events, and gradings
A flexible pathway toward becoming a Development Group or full Kudo Branch
Connection to the wider Kudo International Federation (KIF) network
Study Groups are an important part of our growth strategy. They help lay the groundwork for the expansion of Kudo while maintaining high standards and consistent guidance.
If you're interested in starting a Study Group in your area, we’d love to hear from you and help you begin your journey.
We are now accepting applications for coaching positions within the Kudo England National Team.
As Kudo continues to grow across the country, we are committed to building a strong, skilled, and inclusive national squad that can proudly represent the England on the international stage. To achieve this, we are looking for experienced, passionate, and forward-thinking coaches to join our National Team coaching structure.
We’re seeking coaches who:
Hold recognised qualifications and have experience in Kudo or related martial arts
Are committed to athlete development, wellbeing, and long-term progression
Have a strong understanding of high-performance training and competition preparation
Can work collaboratively within a coaching team
Are willing to travel for national training camps and international events
Help shape the future of Kudo in England
Work with motivated athletes from across the country
Access ongoing development opportunities through KIF and Sport England pathways
Represent the England at international Kudo competitions and training camps
To express your interest, please send the following to englandkudo@gmail.com :
Be part of something bigger — help lead the next generation of English Kudo athletes to success.