GKR Stories – Ben Harper

Ben Harper, United Kingdom

This week in ‘GKR Stories’, Ben Harper from the UK shares why he started with GKR karate and the positive impact karate has had on all aspects of his life.

When my children first started training with GKR Karate in October 2020, spectators were not allowed to watch due to the pandemic restrictions. I wanted my children to do an activity where they could improve their fitness, burn off some energy and learn self-defence.

The instructor, Sensei Matt, suggested to me that I also should become a member and train with the kids as, at the time, it was the only way to watch them do a class. I joined and continued to train even after the children stopped.

Over the past four and a half years, I have gone from a semi-active couch potato to a bona fide karate fan who can now run 5kms. I no longer feel sluggish or like I can’t be bothered and get bursts of energy with a ‘can do’ attitude when I need to get things done around the house or at work.

I have Asperger’s Syndrome (essentially a mild case of autism) and karate has given me more confidence in and out of the dojo. Where I would once avoid social interactions with unfamiliar people in the workplace, and try to work things out by myself, I now have the confidence to seek assistance when needed.

Karate has also given me direction in life through uncertain times, new friends, and a great social life, not to mention that it’s got me fighting fit, quite literally! I am working on developing my leadership skills with the help of my Sensei’s and see so many benefits training with this amazing club.

I have recently experienced some stressful times in my personal life which has seen me struggle with my fitness, but through my training with GKR, I now have the knowledge, determination, resilience and perseverance to take positive action.

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 – Ben Harper

Ben Harper, United Kingdom

This week in ‘GKR Stories’, Ben Harper from the UK shares why he started with GKR karate and the positive impact karate has had on all aspects of his life.

We want to hear your story

Why GKR Karate?

Membership Enquiry