Build confidence, fitness, self-defence skills and discipline with Blackburn & Darwen's trusted martial arts academy. Welcoming beginners since 1990.
Whether you're a Darwen parent looking for the right activity for your child, or an adult wanting something more than the gym, martial arts delivers results that go far beyond fitness.
We're not a national franchise or a chain gym. We're a family-run academy built over 30 years in this community, and it shows in everything we do.
From our youngest Little Warriors aged 4 right through to adult kickboxing and MMA, there's a class in Darwen for every member of the family.
Our youngest class, designed to introduce children to martial arts through games, fun challenges and age-appropriate activities that build confidence from the very start.
Give your child the gift of confidence. Junior classes teach discipline, respect and real self-defence skills in a safe, structured, fun environment that keeps them coming back.
A challenging yet supportive environment covering practical self-defence, physical conditioning, and mental discipline. No experience required — all fitness levels welcome.
High-energy kickboxing classes for adults looking to improve fitness, learn striking techniques and build explosive power. Great fun and a serious workout.
View Class DetailsMixed martial arts training blending striking and grappling disciplines. Our MMA classes build well-rounded fighters and exceptional all-round athletes.
View Class DetailsOur main academy is located right in Darwen at Cotton Hall Mill — convenient, accessible and easy to find.
Students regularly travel to us from all parts of Darwen, including:
With convenient parking on site and evening classes throughout the week, fitting training around school, work and family life is straightforward.
"4 year old daughter went to Genjitsu Martial Arts and absolutely loved it. We will definitely be going regularly. It's a family run business and the family are lovely. Hopefully this will be a part of our lives for many years to come."
"My young son loves it, his confidence has increased and really looks forward to going."
"The family atmosphere at Genjitsu is unlike anything I've experienced at other clubs. Professional and skilled, but genuinely caring about every student's journey. My whole family trains here now."
"Ed and David are exceptional instructors. My daughter has been going for two years and the transformation in her confidence is remarkable. Genuinely could not recommend highly enough."
"Joined as an adult complete beginner and was welcomed brilliantly. The classes are well structured, progressive and genuinely fun. Best decision I've made for my fitness and wellbeing."
"Three of my kids all train at Genjitsu. It's fantastic value, incredible instruction and a safe, respectful environment. The discipline they've learned carries into every aspect of their lives."
Everything you need to know about joining martial arts classes in Darwen.
We welcome children from the age of 4 into our Little Warriors programme at our Darwen academy. This class is specially designed for young children aged 4–6, using games and fun activities to introduce martial arts in an age-appropriate way. Junior classes run for ages 7–15.
No experience needed at all. Every student at Genjitsu starts as a beginner. Our classes are structured so that complete novices can join at any point and progress at their own pace alongside more experienced students.
Absolutely. Whether you're an adult looking for something new or a parent enrolling a child for the first time, our classes are designed with beginners in mind. Instructors adjust their teaching to suit every ability level, from first-timers to advanced students.
Your first trial class at our Darwen academy is completely free with no obligation to join. After that, membership fees are competitive and structured to suit both individuals and families. Contact us for current pricing.
Comfortable sportswear is perfect for your first session — jogging bottoms and a t-shirt work well. You don't need to purchase a gi or any specialist kit before trying a class. We'll guide you on everything you need if you decide to join.
Yes. Our main academy is located at Cotton Hall Mill, Cotton Hall Street, Darwen BB3 0DW — just a short distance from Darwen town centre and easily accessible from all parts of Darwen including Whitehall, Hoddlesden, Earcroft and Tockholes.
Yes, there is parking available at Cotton Hall Mill. The venue is easy to reach by car from across Darwen and the surrounding areas, with evening classes available throughout the week to suit working families.
Yes, parents are very welcome to watch. Many parents tell us that watching their children's progress week by week is one of the highlights. Our friendly, family atmosphere means everyone feels at home — not just the students.
Many of our students travel from Darwen and the surrounding areas including Whitehall, Hoddlesden, Lower Darwen, Earcroft and Tockholes. Our academy at Cotton Hall Mill sits at the heart of the community, with ample parking and a full timetable of classes across the week.
Whether you're looking for children's martial arts classes in Darwen, adult kickboxing, MMA training or self-defence lessons, our academy provides a welcoming environment for beginners and experienced students alike. We've been a fixture in the Darwen and Blackburn martial arts community since 1990, and our reputation for high-quality, genuinely caring instruction speaks for itself.
Our multi-style approach — blending traditional martial arts, kickboxing and MMA elements — means students of every age and goal can find something that works for them. Children build confidence and discipline, adults improve fitness and learn practical self-defence, and families find a shared activity they can all enjoy together.
If you're in Darwen and wondering whether martial arts is right for you or your child, the best first step is to come and watch a session. There's no obligation, no pressure and no commitment required. Just get in touch and we'll take care of the rest.
Cotton Hall Mill, Cotton Hall Street, Darwen BB3 0DW
Book a free trial class and discover why families across Darwen have trusted Genjitsu since 1990. No experience needed, no commitment required.
Genjitsu serves students from Darwen and across the wider East Lancashire area. Students travel to us from all of the following towns and communities.