Amber shares how coming back to karate after a life changing diagnosis gave her a newfound confidence in herself and her abilities.

GKR Stories – Amber

Amber, United Kingdom

Amber shares how coming back to karate after a life changing diagnosis gave her a newfound confidence in herself and her abilities. Read Amber’s story here.

I did karate with GKR when I was child in 2005 but stopped when the dojo changed location and I was unable to make it to class on time after school and dinner.

Twelve years passed and in 2017 I was diagnosed with a curved spine and was classed as being disabled. I was also told that I would never be able to do any of the activities that I enjoyed anymore.

One day, I saw a promotional stall in my local shopping centre for GKR. Karate was always something I enjoyed and after speaking with the instructor on the stall, something deep inside of me wanted to prove that even though I may have a curved spine, I can still do anything an able-bodied person can do. With my mobility being severely affected, I was scared to start back at karate. My confidence was at an all time low not only from my diagnosis but also because when I was growing up, I was told that I would never amount to anything.

So, I joined and everything came flooding back from 12 years ago, it was like I never left. I progressed through the belts and then one day my instructor saw potential in me and asked me to come along to senior class. With some extra support and guidance as well as a gentle ‘push’ I attended senior class to learn how to assist in my local class.

This was something I never thought possible. I can confidently say that karate has helped me in more ways than one. It has shaped me into the person I am today while growing my confidence to new heights. I take great pride in the fact that I now teach my own class and I am a 3-time Regional Champion.

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.