Yvonne started karate with her son to give him the confidence she missed as a child. 21 years later and in the midst of cancer treatment, the thought of returning to karate keeps her on track.

GKR Stories – Yvonne Cooke

Yvonne Cooke, United Kingdom

Yvonne started karate with her son to give him the confidence she missed as a child. 21 years later and in the midst of cancer treatment, the thought of returning to karate keeps her on track.

I always had an interest in karate, inspired at first by the original Karate Kid films. I saw Daniel beat his bullies, and being heavily bullied through school I saw that karate could help me too. Being an exceptionally shy child, I had the self limiting belief that I wasn’t smart enough, strong enough or confident enough.

Years passed and I had a son, Alex, who I wanted to have confidence and be able to defend himself, not go through the bullying like I did. When I joined Alex with GKR, I also took the courageous first step and joined myself. I almost quit multiple times in my first 6 weeks because those self-limiting beliefs were deeply rooted.

Luckily my Sensei, who is now my fiancé, said cheekily “I’ll see you next week” so I thought I best turn up then. That week I was awarded my 9th kyu and have not looked back since.

Fast forward 21 years and I look back at how far I have come. I am so proud of overcoming my shyness and having the ability to help students of all walks of life achieve their own goals either through tournaments, keeping fit and enjoying being part of a thriving community.

In August 2025 I was delivered the devastating news that I have stage 3 ovarian cancer and sadly had to take time off karate to recover. Friends, nurses, doctors and consultants all commented on how positive I am and how I have a great mindset. I very proudly say that it’s all down to karate.

The personal development, the training and support network in GKR is phenomenal.

Starting karate with GKR all those years ago was and always will be the best decision I have made.

During rehab and treatment, I continue to look forward to being back on my feet in the dojo, while feeling proud of my journey so far and looking forward to what the future holds.

Next stop, back to tournaments, and looking forward to attempting my 3rd Dan.

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.