Glen started karate in Queensland before moving to remote South Australia and switching from in-person to online classes.

GKR Stories – Glen Thorpe

Glen Thorpe, Australia

Glen started karate in Queensland before moving to remote South Australia and switching from in-person to online classes. Read Glen’s story in our latest installment of GKR Stories here.

I was introduced to GKR when I was working in Queensland. I was wanting to get into martial arts because of a situation I was in and the need to feel safe and more confident. I didn’t want to go back to doing gym work so one of the security guards at work was with GKR and suggested I should give it a go.

I started in karate January 2025 in Region 29 Queensland with my wife joining me once I had achieved my yellow belt. She saw how since starting karate my confidence had improved.

We then moved to a remote part of South Australia but still wanted to continue on our karate journey so we joined the GKR Online Karate and Fitness Academy and haven’t looked back.

The online training is absolutely amazing, it is somewhat different and more intense than an in-person class, you can’t hide online like you can in a big class.

In March this year, I did my first online grading which was for my Green Belt. The online grading was great, the instructors can see everything and give you good feedback on areas to work on.

GKR Karate has given me back my confidence, it’s helped me to feel safe and has given me the confidence to be able to defend myself and my wife if ever we ever had to. As a green belt, I now train every day and karate has helped me lose weight, gain friends and it has also made me more aware of people and my surroundings.

I’m more motivated in life, especially with work and have a lot more respect for others and myself, my moods have improved and I’m a lot happier.

I would definitely recommend GKR, the instructors are great and have everyone’s best interests at heart and with the addition of the Online Academy, you can train whenever or wherever you want.

We want to hear your story

We’re inviting members to reach out to us and share how joining GKR Karate has been instrumental in crafting their personal tales of inspiration, transformation, or courage.

If you wish to share your story or that of a friend or family member, please click here.

Why GKR Karate?

GKR creates the right environment for our members to train in. Although we promote self defence and fitness, our style also fosters positive values, confidence, discipline, focus and well being. GKR teaches you not only how to punch and kick, it teaches you to be a better person.

We encourage students of all ages, from all walks of life to join our club and be part of the supportive ‘family’ that is GKR Karate.

Self Defence

Synonymous with martial arts, self defence and inner self confidence are one of the key takeaways from regular training. From the age of 5 GKR teaches basic self defence and extraction moves, continuing right through to our senior grades.
Weight Loss

Karate is a great way to lose or maintain a healthy weight, with most classes consisting of aerobic, stretching and toning activities. For those who may not have exercised in some time, GKR provides a supportive environment where students can train at their own pace and physical ability. Our classes are a mixture of men, women and children of all ages.
Focus

Many parents are keen to see their children develop greater focus and discipline through their martial arts training, and GKR’s classes provide the perfect environment. Instructors teach in a respectful and supportive atmosphere through karate inspired games, activities and drills.

Family

GKR promotes a family environment, encouraging kids, parents and relatives to all train in the same class. Staying a few karate grades behind your children, will encourage them to continue a regular training program.
Respect

As a traditional Japanese martial arts, karate promotes respect to our instructors, our club, each other and most importantly ourselves. This is a key part of your learnings as a student of GKR karate.
Friendships

Although karate is considered a solo sport, it is still the foundation for many life long friendships. Classes include games and partner work where children and adults alike take the opportunity to learn about and bond with their fellow class mates.