WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT WALSALL SCHOOL OF SHOTOKAN KARATE
"I decided to take up Karate, in the beginning, following the birth of my Son – My lifestyle, career and diet - not to mention enjoyment of beer - had taken their toll on my health; I was over-weight, lacked confidence and decided to take action to reduce my risk of cardiac arrest. My initial goal was weight loss, and thanks to regular training and a more sensible diet, achieved this easily, losing 2 stones in just over 9 months. I rarely feel exhausted, now, and have developed a level of strength and flexibility previously thought impossible. My ongoing goal is to become a good karate practitioner and I readily accept that this will require effort and time in equal measures. In working to achieve this goal I will continue to rely heavily upon the support, expertise and dedication of the School's teaching staff." Giles Crawford, 32, 5th Kyu
"I find I am a lot more focussed not only in Karate, but in day to day life, which has been very important in the past few years with University etc. I like the atmosphere; it's a very friendly and accepting place. Also the passion and dedication of the instructors is amazing. I've done alot of sport and been in many clubs. This one has got to be the best i've ever been in."
Tanya Handley, 20, 4th Kyu
"I was in such a poor condition I felt exhausted after the 10 minute warm up, but because the instructors allowed me to push myself at my own pace I gradually managed to do a hard full session which I felt proud of. In material terms I have lost 2 stones and don't get out of breath running for the bus any more. Karate training requires extended periods of high concentration. This is something I found difficult but the mind behaves like a muscle which gets better with training. I think I can cope quite well now controlling my concentration and my self-image and confidence has grown. It is friendly, has realistic targets for students and has a mass of technical knowledge. The school instructors are approachable and knowledgeable. Students are never compared to one another which allows for pressure-free personal progress in the art."
Andy Clark, 41, 1st Kyu
"Edward will concentrate when at Karate which has also helped with his concentration at school we believe. He has a stronger upper body, he is fitter, can run for a longer distance. His body is becoming more defined in the biceps, stomach muscles and chest. The Karate school is disciplined, punctual and the Sensei command respect in a fair and firm manner, whilst at the same time maintaining a fun and safe environment for Edward and his pals."
Roy and Jo Cotterill, Parents of Edward 8, 5th Kyu
"Kerry has more concentration since starting Karate and is more confident in groups than she was previously. It has improved the way her body works and she is definitely stronger. Everyone at the school is friendly and makes you feel really welcome."
Lindsay Rowlands, Mother of Kerry 8, 6th Kyu
"George has lost weight; he is more agile and is generally more confident physically. It has also given him more focus and has taught him self-discipline, especially good for George at this time due to some difficult life circumstances."
Melissa Fenlon, Mother of George 9, 7th Kyu
"I feel that I have better coordination, and a higher general level of fitness. I feel more confident, better able to cope with everyday stress. I also feel that I can manage my difficult home life too. It is friendly and full of enthusiastic like-minded individuals."
Ian Macdonald, 32, 1st Kyu