SHIRUDO Martial Arts Academy

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SHIRUDO MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY · CASTLE HILL

BECOME MORE THAN YOU THOUGHT POSSIBLE.

Martial arts with purpose for children, teenagers, adults and families.

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RESPECT • DISCIPLINE • CONFIDENCE • GROWTH

START WITH WHAT MATTERS

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO CHANGE?

Is your child struggling with confidence?

HELP THEM FIND THEIR FEET →

Is your teenager losing direction or motivation?

BUILD THEIR INNER STRENGTH →

Do you feel unfit, stressed or stuck in a rut?

RECLAIM YOUR CONFIDENCE →

Are you concerned about your family's personal safety?

FEEL MORE PREPARED →
Confidence is borrowed before it’s owned — children developing confidence through martial arts

THE SHIRUDO DIFFERENCE

Martial arts is what we teach.
The person you become is why we teach it.

At SHIRUDO, we see potential long before it's fully realised. We know that the right guidance, encouragement and challenges can change the way someone sees themselves and what they believe is possible. What begins on the training floor can influence a lifetime of choices, achievements and personal growth.

That's the SHIRUDO Way.

WHO WE HELP

FIND YOUR PLACE AT SHIRUDO

Children practising martial arts

CHILDREN

Confidence · Focus · Respect · Resilience

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Martial arts tournament

TEENAGERS

Direction · Confidence · Resilience · Capability

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Martial artists training together in a dojo

ADULTS

Fitness · Self-Defence · Confidence · Challenge

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Family martial arts training

FAMILIES

Connection · Shared Growth · Fitness · Skills

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OUR DISCIPLINES

TRAIN WITH PURPOSE

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MMA

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WHY TRUST SHIRUDO?

MORE THAN A DECADE OF PURPOSEFUL TRAINING

RECOGNISED FOR EXCELLENCE !
SHIRUDO Martial Arts Academy is proud to have been recognised as the No. 1 Martial Arts Studio in The Hills Shire 2026 Quality Business Awards.This recognition reflects our commitment to quality instruction, personal development and creating a welcoming environment where children, teenagers, adults and families can thrive.

ESTABLISHED 2014

Built on a vision to redefine what martial arts can achieve, SHIRUDO has grown from a single academy into a respected martial arts organisation, reaching hundreds of students across multiple locations. Our foundations remain unchanged: uncompromising standards, authentic martial arts and a belief that true achievement is measured not just by the belts earned, but by the character developed along the way.

SCHOOLS & COMMUNITY

For more than a decade, SHIRUDO has worked with schools, NSW Police and community organisations, delivering anti-bullying, resilience, leadership and personal safety programs. Our community commitment also includes women-only self-defence courses and inclusive training for people with diverse needs, including autism and ADHD.

EVERY PERSON. EVERY POTENTIAL

At SHIRUDO, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to discover what they’re capable of. Our experienced instructors create a respectful, supportive environment where every student is valued as an individual. Through purposeful, progressive training, we develop confidence, resilience and self-belief, helping people of all ages and abilities grow at their own pace and become more than they thought possible.

THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE TRAINING

MEET OUR INSTRUCTORS

Founder · Academy Director/Head Instructor

Shihan Paul is the founder of SHIRUDO Martial Arts Academy and the creator of Shirudō-Ryū

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Chief Instructor · Shirudō-Ryū

Sensei John is a 3rd Dan Black Belt and qualified Shirudō-Ryū instructor.

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Founder · WEAPON MUAY THAI Shirudo

Coach Liam Is founder of Weapon Muay Thai and Co founder of Shirudo Martial Arts

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Jay

Muay Thai Coach

With 20 years training in Muay Thai, Kickboxing and 10 years as an instructor.

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2nd Dan Black Belt Junior Shirudō-Ryū instructor. 

Isaac has been training in SHIRUDO for more than 10 years 

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2nd Dan Black belt Instructor Shirudō-Ryū

Sensei James is an experienced Martial Artist and Athlete

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2nd Dan Black belt Instructor Shirudō-Ryū

Andrew is an experienced Martial artist with more than 20 years of dedication to the art 

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2nd Dan Black belt Instructor Shirudō-Ryū

Niv has been instructing for 2 years and training in shirudo for over ten years

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WHAT PEOPLE SAY

READ OUR GOOGLE REVIEWS

Eight selected Google reviews. Refreshed manually.

4.7
Based on 58 reviews
4.7See All Reviews

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YOUR FIRST CLASS

NEVER TRAINED BEFORE? PERFECT.

Your first class is a relaxed introduction. Wear comfortable training clothes, bring water and arrive a little early so we can welcome you. No previous experience is needed, beginners are welcome and there is no pressure.

SEE WHAT HAPPENS NEXT →
SHIRUDO martial arts training collage

FIND A CLASS THAT SUITS YOU

Explore the timetable, then choose the class that feels right for you.

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READY TO BEGIN?

Your first class is complimentary.

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NATIVE ELEMENTOR HOME PROOF · DEVELOPMENT ONLY

Children receiving martial arts coaching

Confidence Starts with Believing You Can

Every child deserves to feel capable, included and proud of who they are. But confidence doesn't always come naturally.

At SHIRUDO, we create opportunities for children to discover their strengths through encouragement, achievable challenges and genuine progress. They learn that mistakes are part of growing, setbacks can be overcome and every achievement begins with having the courage to try.

Four key benefits
Greater self-belief and independence
Courage to face unfamiliar challenges
Resilience when things don't go to plan
A positive sense of belonging

EXPLORE OUR CHILDREN'S PROGRAM
Martial arts tournament

Give Them Something Worth Striving For

The teenage years can be challenging. Confidence changes, motivation comes and goes, and young people are discovering where they fit.

SHIRUDO gives teenagers a place to test themselves, work towards meaningful goals and experience the satisfaction of earning their progress. With positive role models and clear expectations, they develop greater independence, accountability and belief in what they can achieve.

Four key benefits
Purpose and personal motivation
Positive mentors and role models
Responsibility and self-discipline
Resilience and emotional control

EXPLORE OUR TEENAGERS' PROGRAM
Martial arts training in a dojo

It's Time to Do Something for Yourself

It's easy to put your own fitness and wellbeing last when life gets busy. Sometimes all it takes is a fresh challenge to rediscover what you're capable of.

At SHIRUDO, you'll find more than another workout. You'll learn new skills, build strength, challenge your limits and experience the satisfaction of making real progress. Whether you're starting again or trying something completely new, there's a place for you.

Four key benefits
Renewed energy and motivation
Improved fitness and physical capability
A positive outlet for everyday stress
Personal goals worth working towards

EXPLORE OUR ADULTS' PROGRAM
Martial artists training together in a dojo

Feel More Prepared.
Move Through Life with Confidence.

Feeling unsafe can leave you unsure of what to say or do. Learning self-defence gives you options,and the opportunity to practise them before you need them.At SHIRUDO, you’ll develop the awareness, judgement and practical skills to respond when something feels wrong. Supportive training helps you understand when to speak up, when to walk away and how to protect yourself if getting away becomes difficult.

Four key benefits
Recognise warning signs early
Set boundaries with an assertive voice
Practise responding under pressure
Build practical skills to help you get to safety

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Children receiving martial arts coaching

BUILD CONFIDENCE, FOCUS AND RESPECT FOR LIFE

Discover What They're Capable Of 
Every child has potential waiting to be discovered. At SHIRUDO, we help bring it to life. Through the excitement of learning martial arts, making friends and overcoming new challenges, children begin to see themselves differently. With experienced instructors guiding and encouraging them, they develop the courage to try, the determination to keep going and a belief in themselves that reaches well beyond the training floor.

Four key benefits
Confidence to face new challenges
Focus, discipline & perseverance
Practical self-defence & personal safety
Friendships, belonging & achievement

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Martial arts kicking practice

TEENAGERS
Strength for the Years That Matter

The teenage years are a time of discovery, change and finding your place in the world. At SHIRUDO, we give young people something positive to be part of, something worth working towards and achievements they can genuinely call their own.Surrounded by experienced instructors and a supportive training community, teenagers discover that real strength isn't just physical. It's about who they are becoming and the choices they make along the way.

What They'll Learn
Practical self-defence : striking, defensive techniques and personal safety
Physical fitness : strength, coordination, flexibility and endurance
Martial arts skills : progressive techniques, combinations, controlled partner work
Goal-based progression: structured learning, recognised grading achievements

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Adults practising martial arts

ADULTS
Challenge Yourself. Discover More.

When was the last time you did something that genuinely challenged you? Something that pushed you beyond your usual routine and left you feeling a real sense of achievement? At SHIRUDO, martial arts isn't just about getting fit. It's an opportunity to learn something new, test your limits and discover abilities you may never have realised you had. Whether you're starting from scratch or returning to training, there's always another challenge waiting.

What You'll Learn

Practical self-defence : effective striking, defensive techniques and personal safety
Physical conditioning: improve strength, mobility, coordination and endurance
Martial arts techniques: develop skills through structured coaching and partner training
Progressive development: build technical ability, work towards goals and measure your achievements

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Family martial arts training at SHIRUDO Castle Hill

FAMILIES WHO TRAIN TOGETHER, GROW TOGETHER.

Share a worthwhile activity that builds fitness, confidence, practical skills and stronger family connection. Progressive, practical coaching meets beginners where they are, builds strong foundations and helps confidence and capability grow over time.

• Quality time with a shared purpose
• Skills and values reinforced together
• Fitness for parents and children
• Encouragement, achievement and lasting memories

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Martial artists training together in a dojo

SHIRUDŌ-RYŪ MODERN HYBRID KARATE 
BECOME MORE THAN YOU THOUGHT POSSIBLE.

Shirudō-Ryū Hybrid Karate brings traditional martial arts values into practical, modern training, developing effective striking, movement and self-defence alongside confidence and strength of character. With clear guidance and encouragement, you’ll build strong foundations at your own pace. As techniques that once felt difficult start to come together, you’ll move with greater control, trust your abilities and discover you’re capable of more than you thought possible. That progress carries beyond training, helping you approach everyday challenges with patience, determination and a clear head.

What you’ll learn
Effective striking and defensive movement
Practical self-defence and personal safety
Balance, coordination and control
Focus, discipline and perseverance

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Muay Thai padwork with a coach

WEAPON MUAY THAI / KICKBOXING

Find Your Power. Sharpen Your Focus.
Step away from the day’s distractions and into training that demands your attention. Muay Thai and kickboxing offer a challenging mix of skill, fitness and the satisfaction of putting it all together. At SHIRUDO, you’ll work on technique, build your stamina and learn to move with greater purpose and control. Whether you’re new to training or ready for a fresh challenge, there’s always something to work towards—and progress you can feel.

What you’ll learn
Punching, kicking and knee techniques
Footwork, balance and distance
Defensive movement and combinations
Conditioning, stamina and coordination

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Two men practising boxing

BOXING AT SHIRUDO

Find Your Rhythm. Rise to the Challenge.
There’s something satisfying about finding your rhythm, the footwork, the timing, the moment a combination comes together. Boxing at SHIRUDO gives you a challenging way to get fitter while learning a skill. With guidance and practice, you’ll develop your technique, sharpen your reactions and discover how much progress you can make, one round at a time.

What you’ll learn
Punching technique and combinations
Footwork, balance and movement
Defensive skills, timing and distance
Boxing conditioning and endurance

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Two martial artists practising grappling

MIXED MARTIAL ARTS AT SHIRUDO

Integrated training across striking, movement and grappling for students ready for a broader martial arts challenge. Progressive, practical coaching meets beginners where they are, builds strong foundations and helps confidence and capability grow over time.

• Well-rounded technical development
• Striking and grappling integration
• Fitness, timing and decision-making
• Disciplined training with safety and control

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Shihan Paul
A lifetime in martial arts

Shihan Paul

Founder · Academy Director
Head Instructor

Shihan Paul is the founder of SHIRUDO Martial Arts Academy and the creator of Shirudō-Ryū, a modern hybrid martial arts system developed through more than 35 years of training, teaching and practical experience.

A 6th Dan in Shirudō-Ryū, Paul also holds a 2nd Dan Black Belt in Karate and a 1st Dan in Hanmudo. His martial arts experience extends across Judo, Kung Fu, Hapkido, Kickboxing, Boxing and Okinawan weapons (Kobudō).

Throughout his martial arts career, Shihan Paul has competed at State, National and International tournament levels and is also a qualified tournament referee.

Shihan Paul’s expertise, experience and knowledge, however, extend well beyond competition and traditional martial arts training.

For more than a decade through SHIRUDO, Shihan Paul has worked with children, teenagers, adults and families, as well as schools and community organisations. His teaching places particular emphasis on confidence, resilience, self-discipline, leadership, personal safety, mindset and practical self-defence.

Shihan Paul strongly believes that martial arts can have an impact far beyond physical ability. His approach is centred on helping each person develop at their own pace, regardless of age, experience or ability. He has purposefully created an environment where people feel supported and challenged, and where they can become capable of achieving more than they thought possible.

That philosophy remains at the heart of SHIRUDO today:

“Martial arts is what we teach. The person you become is why we teach it.”

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John Sensei
PROFILE

Sensei John

Chief Instructor Shirudō-Ryū

Sensei John is a 3rd Dan Black Belt and qualified Shirudo Ryu instructor. He also holds an internationally recognised 2nd Dan Black Belt in Taekwondo.

With more than 25 years of martial arts experience, John brings considerable knowledge and practical experience to his teaching. Throughout his martial arts journey, he has also competed successfully in numerous tournaments and competitions.

John is committed to providing a safe, supportive and positive training environment where students can develop their martial arts skills, confidence and physical capability.

He holds current First Aid and CPR certification, together with the appropriate Working with Children Check and police clearance.

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Coach Liam

Head MMA and Muay Thai Coach

Founder of Weapon Muay Thai Co-founder of SHIRUDO. 1st Dan Black belt Shirudo Ryu, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu blue belt with mixed martial arts experience.

Training and coaching Muay Thai Kickboxing for more than 10 years – has trained extensively in Thailand over many years. 

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Confirmed experience and qualifications

Jay

Martial Arts Instructor

More than 20 years of martial arts experience and more than 10 years as an instructor.

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Isaac Sensei

SENSEI ISAAC

2ND DAN BLACK BELT INSTRUCTOR JUNIOR STUDENTS

 

Isaac Sensei  has been training in SHIRUDO for over 10 years and the last 4 years has been teaching our junior students with great success.

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James Sensei

JAMES Sensei

SHIRUDO MODERN HYBRID KARATE INSTRUCTOR

 

Sensei James is an experienced athlete who has been involved in several sports at a high level including competing on the international stage in baseball.

James is a registered 1st degree black belt and qualified senior  instructor in SHIRUDO. Sensei James has successfully competed in many tournaments over the years and was recently awarded state champion at an International Sport Karate Association event.

He has up to date first aid and resuscitation certificates and has current working with children and police check approved licences.

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Andrew Sensei

SHIRUDO MODERN HYBRID KARATE INSTRUCTOR

Andrew Sensei is a 2nd Dan qualified Instructor, He has been training in Shirudo for more than 10 years and also has a 2nd dan black belt in Kyokoshin Karate  

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Sensei Niv

SHIRUDO: MODERN HYBRID KARATE

Sensei Niv is a registered and qualified 2nd Dan Instructor. Niv has been training in SHIRUDO for more than 10 years. 

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