About Shuhari Self Defence - Martial Arts Training in Slough & Maidenhead

ABOUT US

What has inspired the journey of our club?

Our senior instructor Olgun, has always been fascinated by the dynamics of confrontation-particularly how imbalances of power can lead to bullying, and what individuals can do to protect themselves in an unpredictable and often unfair world.

In a reality where people may face larger, stronger opponents, weapons, or even multiple attackers, Olgun set out to study in depth-and share with others-an equalizer. That equalizer is the technical self-defence skill gained through physical training.

What has always driven him is the belief that the classic narrative of most stories-where the good-natured but weak individual must struggle against a powerful aggressor-should not be the only way. So, he has rejected the two options presented, either being virtuous but helpless, or strong but oppressive. Instead, he decided to study and teach a third and better option: to be both good in character and decisively capable. To be someone who doesn't seek or start conflict, but is fully prepared to end it swiftly when necessary.

It is this goal -to empower more individuals with the strength, skill, and confidence necessary to protect themselves and their loved ones, so they can stand up for what is right in this world without hesitation or fear- on which the foundation of the club was built.

Shuhari founder and main inspiration
Club vision through belt advancement system

What is the vision of the club?

Our vision is to empower our students with confidence and peace of mind through physical training and skill development-so they can face life's challenges head-on, with strength and assurance.

We envision:

  • A child standing up to bullying with strength, skill and confidence.
  • A teenager navigating danger with situational awareness and composure, returning home safely.
  • A woman defending herself against domestic violence, equipped with skill and confidence.
  • A man defending his family with calm, practical skill & control.

What style of martial arts do we teach?

Shuhari is a system based on modern self-defence methods and mixed martial arts techniques.

Training includes:

  • Striking: Punches, elbows, knees, kicks
  • Impact training: Pad work, bag work, board breaking
  • Grappling: vertical and ground grappling, trapping, take downs & throws
  • Sparring: Fence, stances, footwork, distance management
  • Pressure testing: Real-life scenario drills, disengaging, de-escalation, pre-emption
  • Advanced training: Multiple attackers and weapons
Martial arts training techniques
Supportive club atmosphere

What is the atmosphere like in the club?

  • Supportive: Lifelong friendships, strong bonds & community spirit.
  • Camaraderie: Everyone works toward improvement together and help each other.
  • Mentorship: Student leaders, assistant instructors and instructors guide and help students, offering encouragement and feedback.
  • Respectful: Mutual respect, etiquette, and humility shape our environment.
  • Structured yet Welcoming: Disciplined training with an encouraging atmosphere.
  • Growth-Oriented: We celebrate progress and learn from mistakes together.

How do we contribute to the local community?

We are deeply committed to supporting our local areas. Our initiatives include:

  • Free anti-bullying seminars in local schools.
  • Free female self-defence seminars yearly on 8th of March International Women's Day.
  • Self defence program for visually impaired individuals & wheelchair users
  • Self-protection seminars for the elderly
  • Fundraising for the national children's bureau & anti-bullying alliance
  • Anti-bullying scholarship: 5 children every year train for free in our classes.
  • Anti domestic violence scholarship: 5 people every year train for free in our classes.
  • Free online lectures on anti-bullying.
  • Knife crime survival training
Shuhari Self Defence history

Club History

Shuhari Self Defence was founded in January 2010 by Olgun Tiltay. Our very first class took place on a snowy Wednesday night at Montem Leisure Centre, with just four students training in a squash court.

What began as a small group of martial arts enthusiasts meeting once a week has grown steadily into one of the most prominent martial arts communities across Slough, Maidenhead, Windsor, and Bracknell.

Shuhari Self Defence history

2012

We launched our public safety & self-defence seminar program, offering valuable training to the local community.

2015

We began our dedicated after-school program focused on teaching children how to prevent and respond to bullying. We are proud to say we have taught over 4500 children how to stay safe in our school seminars.

2016

We organised our first ever international training trip and went to Okinawa. This is one of the fondest memories we have as a martial arts club.

2018

We launched our corporate self-defence program, partnering with local companies to offer seminars & workshops tailored to workplace and commuter safety.

2025

We enjoyed our second Japan trip and went to Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya and Ise to practice Kyudo (archery) Kobudo (weapons) Judo and Karate.

Looking back at these years of growth and dedication, we are proud to now offer 18 classes each week across six locations, led by a dedicated team of 23 experienced instructors welcoming hundreds of students of all ages and abilities.

What are the non-physical concepts we teach?

We incorporate traditional martial arts philosophy into our teachings, including:

  • Zanshin: Stay relaxed, alert & aware, present in the moment on or off the mat
  • Mushin: Clear your mind of ego, fear, anger, distractions to respond without hesitation
  • Shoshin: Approach everything with the open mind of a beginner, humble and curious
  • Fudoshin: Cultivate unwavering internal strength & calm resilience under pressure
  • Kaizen: Adopt the mindset of never-ending improvement
Traditional martial arts philosophy
Club structure

How is the club structured?

We follow a meritocratic structure rooted in equality of opportunity.

Promotions and responsibilities like belt ranks, teaching roles and leadership positions are awarded based on skill, effort, attitude, contribution & commitment.

Students are evaluated fairly and transparently with clear standards, and everyone has the opportunity to advance when they earn it.

Ready to Join Our Community?

If you have enjoyed reading about our club and you would like to become a part of it, please get in touch and we will book you for a free trial class.

Contact Us

Contact Us

We will get back to you within 24 hours so please feel free to ask anything about our services. Please contact us in the form below.
We will get back to you within 24 hours so please feel free to ask anything about our services. Please contact us on the form on the right.