GKR Stories – Helen Naughtin

Helen Naughtin, Australia

Helen Naughtin from Queensland shares through ‘GKR Stories’ how a poster in a Fish and Chip shop changed the direction of her life and gave her the courage and resilience to fight for her life.

Eleven years ago, I was working as a night shift Nurse stuck in the work-home rut, I felt the need to learn self-defence.

I started searching for a self-defence class nearby and there happened to be a poster on the window of the local fish and chip shop next to a poster for dance. I called them both and the guy from Karate called me back first so after a quick conversation with him I decided to join.

I did 2 classes then didn’t train again for the next 6 months.

When I returned, I started training 1 class a week, then 2 and then 3, it wasn’t long before I was training 6 days a week.

I started competing in tournaments, joined the QLD State team and went to the UK in 2015 for the World Cup and started working for the club 18 months later.

Karate training and the people I have met through it has taken me on the most incredible journey of my life. It’s been a journey of ups and downs, with the biggest benefits being the relationships and personal growth which have both been phenomenal.

Before I started karate, I was very insecure and timid. My training has made me bold, confident, driven, and self-aware. It’s given me the courage and resilience to handle the fight of my life, the fight against breast cancer. With the help of the wonderful staff at Gold Coast University and Robina Hospitals and ICON Radiology, I am proud to say that I kicked breast cancer to the curb!

For anyone who is in the same boat and not sure, just do it. The journey will make you, not break you and there is always the support there that you need, so go for it. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

The best part is: It will change your life!

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 – Helen Naughtin

Helen Naughtin, Australia

Helen Naughtin from Queensland shares through ‘GKR Stories’ how a poster in a Fish and Chip shop changed the direction of her life and gave her the courage and resilience to fight for her life.

We want to hear your story

Why GKR Karate?

Membership Enquiry