Sensei Ashley Martin

Just Karate Founder, Award-Winning Coach and Author

Training History & Lineage

Ashley’s journey in Karate began in 1992 at Cambridge University. Training with the Cambridge University Karate Club (CUKC), he progressed from student to instructor and participated in extensive international tours across Ireland, Europe (the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany), and the USA (Seattle and Hawaii).

During his competitive career, he represented the university at the highest levels, including the prestigious Varsity matches against Oxford and the BUSA (British Universities Sports Association) nationals, grounding his technical expertise in high-pressure competition.

Professional Credentials & Recognition

Ashley completed his formal Instructor Training with the KUGB and achieved his Second Dan (Nidan) under the legendary Sensei Keinosuke Enoeda. His excellence in instruction was formally recognized when he was named Sport Coach of the Year in Cambridge, a testament to his ability to develop athletes across all levels.

Beyond the dojo, Ashley holds a Diploma in Sport Nutrition. This academic background informs his "Complete Martial Arts" philosophy, ensuring training is underpinned by modern principles of health, anatomy, and peak physical performance.

Technical Heritage

Keinosuke Enoeda9th Dan (JKA) - The "Tiger of Shotokan"
Akio Minakami9th Dan (Hayashi-ha Shitoryu-Kai, USA)
Bob Poynton8th Dan (KUGB Senior Instructor)
Eric Pich8th Dan (SKC England)

The Founding of Just Karate

In 2003, Ashley co-founded Just Karate alongside Nita Martin. Their joint vision was to build a family-friendly training environment where parents and children could train side-by-side in a supportive, friendly atmosphere, focusing on personal growth and community.

Expertise in Print: Ashley’s interest in Bunkai (the practical application of karate techniques) and his desire for a structured, transparent syllabus led to the publication of several instructional titles, ensuring every student has a clear roadmap for their progression.

Published Bibliography

Master the Art of Shotokan

Book Taster Session