Why Karate?
Karate isn't about encouraging fighting. It is about self-defence and this is instrumental in the discipline of this most popular of martial arts. Regardless of your age or level of fitness, Karate is great exercise, keeping you fit and improving your flexibility, speed and coordination.
Karate promotes respect for self and others, pride, improves well-being, greater self-confidence and self-esteem, boosts concentration, reduces anxiety and increases positive attitude. No wonder that parents of younger students see improved performance in school work and reports.
For the adult who may be hesitant about starting a new sport you will find that you'll stretch and challenge yourself mentally and physically in ways you never expected. As you master and embed new techniques your reflexes will improve and you'll want to get to the next level. Yes, karate is competitive, but the person who you compete against the most is ... yourself.
No matter how you progress, the beauty of karate is there is alway something to try and to master. If you or your child find themselves threatened your training should kick in. While avoidance is encouraged in the worst scenario the defensive positions, attack moves and real life training will come to your aid if you need them.
The etiquette and discipline of karate, from entering your training dojo, to respecting and helping your fellow students and honouring your Sensei binds everyone together and creates a strong team spirit.
Karate isn't about encouraging fighting. It is about self-defence and this is instrumental in the discipline of this most popular of martial arts. Regardless of your age or level of fitness, Karate is great exercise, keeping you fit and improving your flexibility, speed and coordination.
Karate promotes respect for self and others, pride, improves well-being, greater self-confidence and self-esteem, boosts concentration, reduces anxiety and increases positive attitude. No wonder that parents of younger students see improved performance in school work and reports.
For the adult who may be hesitant about starting a new sport you will find that you'll stretch and challenge yourself mentally and physically in ways you never expected. As you master and embed new techniques your reflexes will improve and you'll want to get to the next level. Yes, karate is competitive, but the person who you compete against the most is ... yourself.
No matter how you progress, the beauty of karate is there is alway something to try and to master. If you or your child find themselves threatened your training should kick in. While avoidance is encouraged in the worst scenario the defensive positions, attack moves and real life training will come to your aid if you need them.
The etiquette and discipline of karate, from entering your training dojo, to respecting and helping your fellow students and honouring your Sensei binds everyone together and creates a strong team spirit.
Chief Instructor Sensei Andy Purrington has trained in Shotokan Karate for nearly 35 years and has taught for more than 20 of those. A qualified instructor with the Karate Union of Great Britain and a nationally qualified judge and referee Sensei Andy leads clubs in Taunton, Wellington, Tiverton and Willand.