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COMBAT JUJITSU RYU
MONDAY, TUESDAY THURSDAY SUNDAY
THE DOJO, UNIT 2 first floor Westward Point, Barnstaple, EX32 8PA
email us: combatjujitsuryu@gmail.com
Combat Jujitsu Ryu:
A Different Approach to Martial Arts
Discovering a warm and welcoming martial arts family in Barnstaple that's changing the game
When most people think of martial arts clubs, they might picture intimidating dojos filled with aggressive training and machismo. Combat Jujitsu Ryu in Barnstaple is on a mission to prove that assumption completely wrong. Their tagline says it all: "It's not what you're expecting..."
Beyond the Stereotypes
Tucked away at The Dojo, Unit 2 first floor Westward Point in Barnstaple, Combat Jujitsu Ryu offers something wonderfully different in the martial arts world. Rather than focusing on one narrow discipline, they practice Goshin Kempo Jujitsu—a comprehensive approach that combines locks, blocks, strikes, throws, and various defensive techniques with training in related arts including Karate (which influenced Jujitsu) and Aikido and Judo (which both evolved from Jujitsu).
This holistic approach isn't just about technique variety; it reflects the club's warm philosophy that understanding comes from breadth of knowledge rather than rigid specialisation. It's an ethos that runs through everything they do, from their training methods to their genuinely caring approach to student development.
The Heart of Martial Arts
What truly makes Combat Jujitsu Ryu special is the human element. The club's instructors aren't just technically skilled, they're genuinely invested in creating a supportive, ego-free environment where students can flourish both physically and personally.
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Take Sensei Steve, the 3rd Dan Chief Instructor with over 25 years of experience. Standing at 6'2", he perfectly embodies the club's philosophy that "technique and mindset in Jujitsu far outweigh size or strength." But it's not just his technical expertise that makes him brilliant—students and peers absolutely love his approachable, empathetic style and his genuine gift for helping people overcome personal challenges, whether that's mental health struggles or simply never having done martial arts before.
The club's instructors bring equally impressive credentials alongside their heartfelt commitment to student welfare.
Renshi Richard Small offers an incredible 50 years of martial arts experience, including mastery in Aikido and Tai Chi, whilst Renshi Stewart Cook brings half a century of expertise spanning from Kung Fu to Karate. Sensei Simon Holt rounds out the fantastic team with over 30 years in Aikido, having trained under internationally renowned instructors.
A Family, Not Just a Club
What really shines through when you hear from students is that Combat Jujitsu Ryu has created something more than a martial arts school—they've built a genuine family. The instructors take real time to know their students personally, understanding their individual goals, challenges, and aspirations.
This personal approach extends beautifully to the club's inclusive philosophy. The instructors understand that we're all built differently, and their techniques are thoughtfully designed to be approachable for everyone regardless of common concerns like fitness level, weight, or flexibility. Whether you're a complete beginner wondering if martial arts might be for you, someone returning to training after years away, or an experienced practitioner looking to expand your knowledge, the emphasis is on creating an environment where everyone feels genuinely valued and motivated.
He is particularly praised for his focus on helping students overcome personal challenges, such as mental health struggles or a lack of prior training, empowering them to discover their potential. The club actively welcomes and supports those facing mental health challenges, with both students and instructors sharing experiences and knowledge to create a genuinely understanding environment where everyone supports one another.​
Why You Should Absolutely Give It a Go
In an age where fitness and wellbeing are increasingly recognised as essential for mental as well as physical health, Combat Jujitsu Ryu offers some truly compelling reasons to consider martial arts training:
Practical Skills: The self-defence aspects of their training provide real-world applicable skills whilst building confidence and awareness—brilliant for feeling more secure in everyday life.
Physical Fitness: The combination of techniques works your entire body, improving strength, flexibility, balance, and cardiovascular fitness in ways that traditional gym workouts often miss. Plus, it's so much more engaging than running on a treadmill!
Mental Health Support: The club particularly welcomes those facing mental health challenges, with both students and instructors sharing experiences and offering mutual support. This creates a community where mental health struggles are understood rather than stigmatised, and where the structure and achievement of martial arts training can provide real benefits for wellbeing. Our partner, Toad Counselling, is also on hand for further support with special rates and access for our members.
Accessible to All Body Types: Understanding that we're all built differently, the techniques are designed to work for everyone regardless of fitness level, weight, flexibility, or physical limitations. The focus on technique over strength means that martial arts becomes genuinely accessible.
Personal Growth: Many students report that martial arts training helps them overcome personal challenges, build confidence, and develop discipline that extends into other areas of life—it's genuinely transformative.
Community Connection: In our increasingly digital world, the club offers genuine human connection and mutual support that's becoming rarer but no less precious.
