GKR Karate Classes in Stoke on Trent

GKR stands for ‘Go-Kan-Ryu’. Each syllable in this name has a separate meaning in Japanese. When Kancho Robert Sullivan founded this name for our club in the mid 80’s, his intention was for it to mean the following: Go = hard; Kan = total or complete; Ryu = school or system. The terms ‘Go’ and ‘Kan’ form part of the name for many karate styles. Kancho Sullivan’s initial karate background was in Goju and a Shotokan based style, and GKR Karate’s course content and name reflects influences from both of these styles.

Whilst we have great respect for many other Martial Arts clubs out there, we naturally feel that GKR Karate offers students a range of benefits that many other clubs cannot match. First of all, because we are an international organisation with over 2500 classes running each week between 3 countries, the community of active GKR Karate students is enormous and this creates a great opportunity for plenty of positive social interaction amongst both children and adults. It also means that we are able to hold inter-club tournaments which gives students of all ages the chance to test their skills in large divisions in a positive and like-minded environment.

The initial registration fee will vary depending on the number of family members joining together. We also run special membership promotions from time to time where discounts are offered for people trying out karate for the first time.

These promotions are only offered in limited areas at any one time so please contact us and we will arrange for the latest membership information to be sent to you.

We encourage all new members to arrive at their first class 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. This gives the Instructor an opportunity to meet the new students and explain the basic format of the first class. Generally speaking, the first few classes will involve an introduction to the basic striking, blocking and kicking techniques and these will be practised at moderate speeds until the student’s coordination develops. Essentially, students can progress at their own speed based on their own personal level of fitness and flexibility.

Students are welcome to train in track pants/shorts and t-shirt to start with (singlets are not permitted). We do encourage students to purchase a uniform however (known as a ‘gi’) as soon as they have settled into their first few classes. These uniforms are available through the Instructor

The average time taken for a student to achieve their Shodan-ho (provisional Black belt) in GKR Karate is approximately five to six years. Students with exceptional talent or those with previous traditional karate experience have been known to achieve this in as little as four years. Generally speaking, the minimum age for Junior Black belt is 12 years old although there have a small number of extremely gifted youngsters to have achieved this qualification as early as 10.

­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.

­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.

­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.

­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.

­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.

­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.