Instructor Focus: Dave Turton

Legend of Self -Defence

Hello! Who are you and what Martial Art do you teach?

David Turton. Goshinkwai Combat, Street Weapons and Self-Defence.

What's your backstory and how did you end up teaching Martial Arts?

I started in 1961, after a few years trying the more traditional arts such as Judo, Karate, Kempo, l started Goshinkwai in 1970, 1st Dan in 1975, through the grades until my 10th Dan in 2013. three times inducted into the Martial Arts Hall of Fame.

Tell us about your Martial Art, what it is and why it's great?

It has no sporting or tradition based applications, and it is only for personal defence combat, suitable for everyone, and includes the training in street weapons, not swords or spears etc.

Describe the process of launching your school

I started in 1975, 3 weeks after passing my 1st Dan Black belt, opened up in a cotton mill canteen, things were easier back then and we hope no real problems per se. Today I would make sure insurances, child protection, first-aid, etc are all in place before opening.

Since launch, what has worked to attract and retain students?

I had a lot of 'publicity' through the martial arts magazines particularly in the 1980's and 90's. Also, launching my own organisation in the year 2000 has helped progress and growth.

How are you doing today and what does the future look like?

I am semi-retired these days due to my poor health and age. I still 'run' the organisation as far as the admin is concerned, and l do quite a lot of article writing. The future? Well, l am at the end of my active life, but my organisation is going strong.

Through starting the business, have you learned anything particularly helpful or advantageous?

I don't consider us a business as such, no one makes any money from us, but don't take ANYONE at face value, most will help you if it helps them.

Through starting Martial Art, how has it helped your life?

I started as a young boy and it has given me confidence and a focus for my life beyond just work and family.

Tell us about a time you have had to use your Martial Arts skills for self-defence. What happened and what did you do?

Well, in over 50 years l have had quite a few occasions to use my 'skills', however although l usually prevailed, very little went either to plan or the ways I thought it would. 

What platform/tools do you use for your business?

We have a website, Facebook, regular flyers and newsletters, not much else.

What have been the most influential books, podcasts, or other resources?

All my 'learning' was via attending sessions under respected instructors. Books l read mainly for information rather than knowledge to enhance my skill base. I am somewhat old fashioned, l don't utilise any technological modern methods at all.

Where's your school?

Unable to answer correctly... l don't have a club, but dozens in my organisation, H/Q Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, S626BG, United Kingdom.

Where can we go to learn more about your school?

www.asmaa-sdf.co.uk

What Martial Arts instructors would you like to thank for their instruction or inspiration?

John & Gordon Warfield, Phil Milner and several guest instructors.

Thanks Dave, a true gent and a legend.

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