Adult Martial Arts Programme (18+ years)

Awarded Top Martial Arts School in the UK for the last 13 years, including 2025.

Transform your fitness, confidence, and self-defence skills with our scientifically-designed adult martial arts programme in Morden. Whether you're seeking practical self-defence training, improved physical fitness, or personal development, our Choi Kwang Do classes help busy adults build discipline, focus, and resilience in a supportive, non-competitive environment.

Looking For Karate In Morden?

Many adults search for “karate” when looking to join a martial arts class—it’s the most familiar term, even though karate is just one style under the martial arts umbrella. At Cassar Academy, we teach Choi Kwang Do, a modern martial art that shares many of the practical benefits of karate, but adds a unique focus on health, self defence, and progression for adults of all ages.

Adult Class Times

We offer adult martial arts classes every weekday evening (Monday to Friday) as well as convenient lunchtime sessions on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 12–1pm—ideal for busy professionals in Morden. Train when it suits your schedule!

Why Choose Choi Kwang Do at the Cassar Academy?

Recognised Leadership and Proven Success

With over 55 years of martial arts experience and more than 30 years of dedicated teaching, Deputy Grandmaster Vince Cassar leads the Cassar Academy with unparalleled expertise. Personally endorsed by Grandmaster Kwang Jo Choi as the flagship school of Choi Kwang Do worldwide, the Cassar Academy is recognised for its exceptional training standards and continued success. The academy has been awarded the Top Single Martial Arts School in the UK by the Educational Funding Company (EFC) for over a decade—a testament to its impact and excellence within the global martial arts community.

Expert Instruction from a Highly Trained Team

Deputy Grand Master Cassar ensures that all instructors undergo regular, advanced training to maintain the highest level of martial arts instruction. Through monthly instructor workshops, the teaching team stays updated with the latest training methodologies, providing students with expert guidance, structured learning, and a strong support system.

Tailored for All Abilities and Fitness Levels

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced martial artist, Choi Kwang Do at the Cassar Academy offers a structured and progressive training system that allows adults of all ages and fitness levels to participate. The focus is on personal development rather than competition, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to build strength, flexibility, and resilience.

Science-Based Training for Longevity and Efficiency

Unlike traditional martial arts, Choi Kwang Do is designed based on biomechanics, kinesiology, and neuroscience to ensure movements are fluid, efficient, and safe. The techniques reduce strain on joints while maximising power, making it a highly effective self-defence system that promotes long-term physical well-being.

Practical and Effective Self-Defence Skills

Our training focuses on real-world self-defence scenarios, equipping students with techniques that are quick to learn and highly effective. Choi Kwang Do’s practical approach ensures that you can defend yourself confidently, regardless of size or strength.

Cognitive and Mental Benefits

Training in Choi Kwang Do engages both sides of the brain, improving memory, focus, and problem-solving skills. Many of our adult students find that martial arts training helps them manage stress, enhance concentration, and sharpen their decision-making abilities in daily life.

A Supportive, Inclusive, and Motivating Community

At the Cassar Academy, you’ll be part of a welcoming martial arts family where encouragement, respect, and camaraderie are at the heart of training. Our community-driven atmosphere fosters motivation, helping you stay committed to your fitness and personal growth goals.

Comprehensive Health and Fitness Benefits

Choi Kwang Do training enhances cardiovascular health, builds muscle strength, improves flexibility, and supports weight management. Additionally, its stress-relieving aspects promote mental well-being, helping adults maintain balance and focus in their daily lives.

Character Development and Personal Growth

Martial arts training goes beyond physical skills—it instils discipline, perseverance, and confidence. At the Cassar Academy, we emphasise personal development, helping adults cultivate mental toughness, emotional control, and leadership qualities.

Flexible and Progressive Learning

Our structured belt system ensures steady progress, with opportunities for advancement every two months. Whether you train twice a week or more frequently, you’ll continually develop new skills, keeping your journey exciting and rewarding.

How Does It Work?

Your Martial Arts Journey

Get Started with a Free Trial or Enrol in a Programme

Fill in the form to request a free trial class. If you’re ready to commit to your training, you can enrol in one of our programmes and start your martial arts journey immediately!

Booking Your First Session

Once you’ve submitted the form, our team will reach out to schedule your 1-on-1 trial class. If you’ve already signed up, we’ll book your 1-on-1 induction session—your first step into the world of Choi Kwang Do!

Your First Session: A Warm Welcome

In your first session, you’ll be introduced to the academy, and if you’ve enrolled, you’ll be fitted with your brand-new uniform! You’ll get a feel for a typical class, including our dynamic warm-up, basic strikes, defensive movements, and drills. You’ll even get to test out techniques on pads, shields, or focus mitts, giving you an exciting hands-on experience.

Exploring Your Training Options

After your trial, we’ll discuss the available training programmes to match your goals. If you’ve already enrolled, we’ll set you up with access to The Cassar Academy app—your go-to resource for booking classes, watching training videos, and tracking your progress.

Flexible Class Booking to Fit Your Schedule

We understand the demands of a busy life. That’s why we offer classes five days a week, giving you the flexibility to train when it suits you. Easily book your sessions up to 3 days in advance via the Cassar Academy app.

Your Martial Arts Training Begins

As you step into the world of martial arts, your journey to better health, sharper focus, and self-empowerment truly begins. Each class is designed to challenge and inspire, helping you develop strength, confidence, and practical self-defence skills.

Track Your Progress and Achieve Milestones

Every two months, you’ll have the opportunity to showcase your skills in front of Deputy Grand Master Cassar. After these evaluations, successful students will be awarded their next belt rank and certification, celebrating their commitment, growth, and hard work.

A Strong Support System: Your Martial Arts Community

At the Cassar Academy, you’re never alone on your journey. Our instructors and fellow students offer guidance, support, and encouragement every step of the way. You’ll become part of a motivating and inclusive community, forming friendships that extend beyond the dojo.

A Journey Through The World of Martial Arts

From Personal Challenges to Martial Arts Mastery

By Deputy Grandmaster Vince Cassar

Growing up in Malta, I was just like many others—full of energy, curiosity, and ambition. However, attending an all-boys school where things could get rough, I quickly learned the importance of self-defence. I wasn’t timid, but the fear of bullying and physical confrontations was always there. At the age of 8, I began Judo, my first step into what would become my lifelong journey in martial arts.

With each session, my confidence grew. I wasn’t just learning to throw and grapple—I was learning to stand tall. My dedication paid off when I became the under-12 and under-14 Malta National Judo Champion. Martial arts had become more than just a sport—it was a way of life.

At one championship, I witnessed something that changed everything: a Korean Tae Kwon Do National demonstration team. Their dynamic kicks and movements were unlike anything I had seen before. I knew then that my martial arts journey had only just begun.

At 17, I moved to England and joined an Ishin Ryu Karate school. The training was tough—brutal at times—and only the most dedicated students lasted. The rigid, hyper-extended movements took their toll on my body, and I started feeling the long-term effects of the harsh training methods.

Then, I discovered Choi Kwang Do. Initially, I was sceptical of its softer appearance. But when I witnessed a single sidekick send a man flying, I was convinced. This was something different—something powerful yet safe. The science of biomechanics, kinesiology, and neuroscience behind Choi Kwang Do made it not only more effective but also healthier and sustainable for long-term practice.

Over 25 years of close mentorship with Grandmaster Kwang Jo Choi have shaped my understanding of this martial art. He developed Choi Kwang Do to protect the body rather than break it down, focusing on fluid, natural movement that enhances strength, agility, and longevity. Unlike traditional martial arts, Choi Kwang Do is adaptable, efficient, and effective in real-world self-defence scenarios.

With over 55 years of martial arts experience and 30 years of teaching, I’ve come to understand the true impact of Choi Kwang Do in every aspect of life. It’s not just about fighting—it’s about empowerment, self-improvement, and lifelong health.

10 Components of Choi Kwang Do

Choi Kwang Do training is built around scientifically designed techniques that promote strength, flexibility, and self-defence skills while prioritising long-term health and injury prevention. Here are the 10 key components that shape every class at The Cassar Academy:

Warm-Up & Cool-Down

Every class begins with a two-phase warm-up, gradually increasing your heart rate and engaging your muscles for training. Afterward, a cool-down session brings your body back to a resting state, reducing stiffness and aiding muscle recovery. This structured approach maximises performance while minimising injury risk.

Stretching & Mobility Exercises

Flexibility is crucial for martial arts. Our carefully structured stretching routines enhance mobility, joint health, and overall movement efficiency, ensuring you develop strength without compromising flexibility.

Fundamental Techniques

The foundation of Choi Kwang Do includes powerful, biomechanically efficient punches, kicks, and defensive blocks. These techniques are designed to generate maximum power while reducing stress on the joints, making them effective for all ages and fitness levels.

Patterns (Hyung)

Patterns are a structured sequence of offensive and defensive movements that improve muscle memory, coordination, and cognitive function. They enhance focus and discipline while reinforcing proper technique.

Speed Drills

Designed to sharpen your reflexes, speed drills develop quick reaction times and agility, ensuring that you can defend yourself effectively in real-world situations.

Defensive Drills

Our self-defence training prepares you for practical, real-life scenarios. Through partnered exercises, you’ll learn to apply defensive movements under controlled pressure, helping you build confidence and the ability to react instinctively.

Target Training

Using pads, shields, and focus mitts, target training enhances accuracy, timing, and striking power while reinforcing proper technique. These drills build explosive strength and precision, key for effective self-defence.

Close-Range Tactics

Learn to defend against holds, grabs, and close-contact threats using efficient and adaptable techniques. These tactics are designed to be effective regardless of size or strength, giving you practical skills for real-world self-protection.

Strength & Conditioning

Every class incorporates strength-building and endurance exercises to develop muscle tone, improve cardiovascular health, and enhance physical resilience. Our methods focus on functional strength, making movements applicable to martial arts and daily life.

Mindset & Personal Development

Choi Kwang Do is more than just physical training—it’s about mental resilience, discipline, and confidence. Every class reinforces values like perseverance, self-control, and humility, helping you develop a strong, focused mindset that extends beyond martial arts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Am I too old to start martial arts?

A: Absolutely not! Choi Kwang Do is designed for all ages and fitness levels. Whether you're in your 20s, 40s, 50s or beyond, our training system ensures that you progress at your own pace, building strength, flexibility, and self-defence skills without unnecessary strain on your body.

Q: Do I need previous martial arts experience?

A: No experience? No problem! Our classes are structured for beginners, and our instructors will guide you every step of the way. Whether you're new to martial arts or returning after a break, you’ll fit right in.

Q: How fit do I need to be to start?

A: You don’t need to be fit to start—training will improve your fitness! Our classes help you build strength, mobility, and endurance over time. No matter your starting point, you’ll see gradual improvements in cardio, flexibility, and overall health.

Q: How often should I train?

A: We recommend training at least twice a week to make steady progress. However, we offer flexible training options, allowing you to attend as many sessions as fit your schedule.

Q: What should I wear to my first class?

A: Comfortable workout clothing is perfect for your first session. Once you join, we provide you with a Choi Kwang Do uniform and your first belt.

Q: Is there sparring or contact fighting?

A: No full-contact sparring! Unlike traditional martial arts, Choi Kwang Do is a non-contact, self-defence-focused discipline. Training is done in a controlled and cooperative environment, focusing on practical self-defence skills without the risk of unnecessary injury.

Q: How long does it take to get a Black Belt?

A: On average, students can achieve their 1st Degree Black Belt in approximately 3 years, training twice a week. However, progression depends on individual dedication, consistency, and effort.

Q: What are the membership costs?

A: Our memberships are charged monthly and work out at under £15 per class if you attend the recommended 3 sessions per week. (Twice a week £21 per class)

Q: What’s your cancellation policy?

A: We keep things simple—just give us one month’s notice if you wish to cancel your membership.

Q: Do I need any equipment?

A: Your uniform and first belt are provided when you join. Over time, you’ll need hand and foot protection gear for certain drills, which can be purchased at our academy.

Q: What if I miss a class?

A: No problem! You can easily book a make-up class via The Cassar Academy app, ensuring you stay on track with your training.

Q: How do I track my progress?

A: Your training journey is structured through our belt progression system, with opportunities to test for your next rank every two months. The Cassar Academy app allows you to track progress, access training videos, and stay updated on upcoming events.

Q: Are your instructors qualified?

A: Yes! All instructors are certified by Choi Kwang Do International, DBS checked, insured, first aid trained, and attend monthly instructor training sessions led by Deputy Grandmaster Vince Cassar, who has over 55 years of experience.

Q: What benefits will I gain from training?

A: In addition to learning highly effective self-defence, you will:

 Improve fitness, flexibility, and strength

 Gain confidence, focus, and discipline

Reduce stress and anxiety

 Be part of a supportive and motivating community

Q: What is the Cassar Academy app?

A: The Cassar Academy app is your all-in-one martial arts companion. It allows you to book classes, access training videos, track your progress, and stay updated with academy news and events.