After leaving a violent relationship, Jane from the UK found her confidence grow since starting with GKR Karate.

GKR Stories – Jane

Jane, United Kingdom

After leaving a violent relationship, Jane from the UK found her confidence grow since starting with GKR Karate.

**Content Warning – this story describes details of Jane’s personal experience with domestic violence**

I was mentally and physically abused by my first husband for 5 years from 1993-1998. My son and I suffered in silence from his bullying, belittling and physical violence. He isolated me from my friends and family and the only people we could socialize with were his friends.

Thankfully, I had good neighbours who would call the police on the bad days, but I wasn’t strong enough to stand up and admit to the police what was happening. I was lonely and not in a good space.

I then found support in a new neighbour who helped me to see my worth and build my confidence. Within 6-12 months I was able to change the locks and kick him out but then the phone calls started at all hours of the night threatening me and my family.

I made it through that period in my life with support from my friends, but it wasn’t until I very reluctantly joined GKR Karate that I found my confidence grow exponentially.

With the support of my peers, I worked hard and progressed through the early grade levels and am now a Brown Belt! I never imagined I’d have the self-confidence to face sparring/kumite and potentially get hit again (although I do still struggle with this at times but I’m getting there). I have competed in tournaments and won a Gold medal in kumite which is something I am proud to have achieved after overcoming my fears.

There are so many things that I never thought would be possible without the support from my Sensei’s and friendships that I continue to enjoy today.

Thank you GKR and everyone I have met along the way. Your support has been greatly appreciated.

‘Smiling not Crying’

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence and needs to talk with someone call 1800-RESPECT (1800 737 732) in Australia, 0508 744 633 Shine Helpline in New Zealand or 0808 2000 247 for the 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline in the United Kingdom.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger call 000 in Australia, 111 in New Zealand or 999 in the United Kingdom.

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 – Jane

Jane, United Kingdom

After leaving a violent relationship, Jane from the UK found her confidence grow since starting with GKR Karate.

We want to hear your story

Why GKR Karate?

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