Living with chronic health conditions and mobility issues, Mike decided to give karate a go and hasn’t looked back.

GKR Stories – Mike Minshall

Mike Minshall, United Kingdom

Living with chronic health conditions and mobility issues, Mike decided to give karate a go and hasn’t looked back. Read Mike’s GKR Story here.

After watching my son Tyler for 2 or 3 karate classes I was encouraged to give it a try by Sensei Carol and even though I had some mobility issues I thought “Why not?”

I saw karate as possibly another form of physiotherapy to help me to stretch and move more but was concerned about the impact it would have on my long term conditions. I live with hypothyroidism, fibromyalgia, ME/CFS, anxiety and depression and used a walking stick to provide support and stability around the house and outside.

Since starting my karate journey almost 3 years ago, I have reduced my reliance on walking aids and improved my mobility, strength and endurance while gaining the confidence to join the Senior Class.

The friends that I have made and the discipline required in my karate has really enabled me to tackle issues with a more positive state of mind and of course, with better physical health to help fight the ongoing chronic conditions that I live with.

Thank you to my Sensei’s for their words of encouragement and support and the whole of Region 22 who have contributed to my improvement both physically and mentally.

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 – Mike Minshall

Mike Minshall, United Kingdom

Living with chronic health conditions and mobility issues, Mike decided to give karate a go and hasn’t looked back. Read Mike’s GKR Story here.

We want to hear your story

Why GKR Karate?

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