In the early 1980s, Keith Bell, a 4th Dan in Wado Ryu and a student of Sensei Kanazawa in Shotokan, sought to create a martial art system that combined the best aspects of both styles. This led to the formation of Anshin Ryu (which translates to “Peace of Mind” or “Heart and Mind,” depending on the kanji interpretation). While the foundation of Anshin Ryu is based on Sensei Bell’s training in Wado Ryu, key modifications were made, including stances that are lower in the style of Shotokan, though not as deep. This adjustment gave the art the powerful appearance of Shotokan while preserving the speed and agility of Wado Ryu.
In terms of kata, Anshin Ryu retains the basic Pinan kata from Wado Ryu up to black belt, while also incorporating more advanced forms such as Kushanku and Chinto. Upon reaching first Dan, the system evolves further, adopting Shotokan’s advanced kata like Unsu and Nijushiho, among others.
By the 1980s, Sensei Bell expanded the Anshin Ryu system by founding Sentenashi Karate Kosai, with clubs across the North East of England, including locations in Barnard Castle, Hurworth, Sedgefield, Newton Aycliffe, and Catterick Garrison. The main Honbu Dojo was in Darlington, where the Kodokan Sensei trained twice a week in addition to sessions at the Newton Aycliffe dojo.
In 1992, Sensei Bell retired from karate to pursue other interests. With this, Sentenashi Karate disbanded, and the Dan grades followed their own paths—some returning to Wado Ryu, others exploring new styles like Isshin-Ryu, while a few continued with Anshin Ryu.
That same year, on March 31st, Sensei Fred Bateman, alongside Senseis Chris and Stuart Bateman, founded Kazoku Karate. The first Honbu Dojo was set up in St Anne’s Church Hall, Darlington, before relocating to a new venue. The school affiliated with the United Kingdom All Styles Karate Organisation (UKASKO), a governing body for Karate in the UK. The Bateman trio trained under the renowned Shotokan instructor Sensei Terry Mathur (5th Dan) in Stockport. Sadly, Sensei Mathur is no longer with us, but his influence remains deeply felt. Under his guidance, the Batemans gained extensive knowledge of Shotokan kata and bunkai (applications), and competed as part of the English squad, earning numerous trophies and accolades.
Between 1992 and 1998, Anshin Ryu Karate expanded, introducing new techniques, partner drills, and self-defense strategies. A theoretical syllabus was also created to help students understand the history and philosophy behind the martial arts.
In 1998, Sensei Fred Bateman’s study of Karate and Kobudo (Okinawan weapons) in Okinawa, Japan, enriched the Anshin Ryu curriculum. This experience also led to his studies under Sensei Phil Snewin (5th Dan) in Kamishin Ryu, which deepened his understanding of Budo (traditional martial arts) as opposed to “sporting arts.”
This accumulation of knowledge, both in Japan and under distinguished Sensei, helped Sensei Bateman evolve Anshin Ryu Karate into the dynamic system it is today. The Seensei of Kodokan Martial Arts remain active learners, continually studying with world-class instructors like Franco Sanguinetti (8th Dan), the head of Matayoshi Kobudo Kodokan International.
As of September 2024, Anshin Ryu Karate, now part of Kodokan Martial Arts, embarks on a new chapter. Sensei Bateman, dedicated to upholding high coaching standards, has decided to leave UKASKO and affiliate with the British Martial Arts & Boxing Association (BMABA). This new association focuses on verifying instructor credentials and promoting ongoing professional development through seminars and courses, ensuring the continuous growth of the Anshin Ryu system.