We hear from Annabelle and her Mum about why she started karate and the benefits of training with GKR.

GKR Stories – Annabelle Bridger

Annabelle Bridger, United Kingdom

This week in GKR Stories, we hear from Annabelle and her Mum about why she started karate and the benefits of training with GKR. Read Annabelle’s story here…

My daughter Annabelle started Karate in October 2022,

We wanted to find an activity for her where she would learn a life skill, and something that would help her confidence and strength. Annabelle found it very hard to meet new people and stick to activities as our family moved around a lot due to work.

The difference that GKR karate has made for Annabelle and the whole family has been fantastic. We chose GKR Karate as it is supportive of people of all abilities, and families training together.

Annabelle has learnt so much in her time and now she has achieved her 3rd Kyu. It’s been great for her focus, strength and concentration, with her biggest achievement so far attending the World Cup 2024 in Australia. She has a passion for karate and doesn’t miss any events or seminars.

My son has also started karate now. Before he began, he had difficulty with learning, but we’ve seen a remarkable improvement since then. It’s wonderful to see both kids learning together and sharing a common goal.

Annabelle’s Story:

GKR Karate has changed my life and made me more confident.

I started with GKR when I was 11 years old and had just moved to a new area. My dad tried many different clubs to help me, but once I started with GKR I knew that this was the right place for me.

I didn’t have a lot of confidence, but with help from my instructors and making new friends at class, I have come out of my shell over the last few years, and achieved many things.

Once I started, I wanted to try everything that GKR had to offer such as seminars, tournaments and special events. I never thought I was good enough but my instructors, who I look at as role models, encouraged me to go along and give everything a go.

I have now achieved my brown belt, competed in my 3rd UK Nationals where I received a Gold Medal, and the highlight of my GKR Karate journey so far – attending the World Cup in Australia which was a fantastic opportunity not to mention a life changing event.

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.

Have a question or require further information? Contact us today.

About GKR

GKR Stories – Annabelle Bridger

Annabelle Bridger, United Kingdom

This week in GKR Stories, we hear from Annabelle and her Mum about why she started karate and the benefits of training with GKR. Read Annabelle’s story here…

We want to hear your story

Why GKR Karate?

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