CHOP TO IT AND TAKE UP karate

Having operated in Torquay for the last five years, Shukokai Karate has cemented its popularity among local children and adults in the 3228 area.

Instructor and third-dan black belt Sensei Aurelia says the martial arts club is growing steadily in numbers, so she has introduced two new classes to accommodate the influx of interest.

“One of the classes is for pre-schoolers/ preps aged 4-6 years and an adult class,” the instructor said.

As well as running the local club, Sensei Aurelia has been coaching the Victorian state karate team for the last 10 years.

“I’m very passionate about karate because it offers so much. I believe you become a better version of yourself through the discipline of training,” she said.

“I am very excited to have started classes for adults as I really want to emphasise to people that you don’t need exceptional fitness or flexibility to start karate training.”

A lover of all things karate, Sensei Aurelia believes anyone can take up the sport at any age and benefit from improvements in strength, fitness and mental resilience.

She also says it can teach people practical knowledge about self-defence.

“All you need is a commitment to train regularly. I know myself that it can be difficult to make time in our busy lives with multiple priorities such as work and family, but it is really about prioritising yourself, and setting aside time to achieve something worthwhile,” she said.

With many of her current adult students juggling work commitments and young children, Sensei Aurelia says it’s possible to achieve black belt status by training once a week over five years.

Shukokai Karate Torquay will be hosting a free self-defence session for beginners on Monday January 28 from 6.30pm until 7.45pm.

The class is suitable for ages 13 plus.

“It will be a practical session to learn some basic self-defence skills and tactics, and it’s also an opportunity to try karate and see what it has to offer you,” she said.

Sensei Aurelia is encouraging all locals who have never dreamed of taking on karate to come down and give it a go.

You can book by phoning Sensei Aurelia on 0402 332 727, or via the Facebook page at facebook.com/Torquaykarate.