Karate for children is a fun activity that can teach discipline, control and respect while providing an opportunity for children to become more self-confident.  Karate is also something that can be combined with school work as students can now take Karate as a module in PE at GCSE and A Level.

Chelmsford Shotokan Karate Club has been teaching karate successfully in Essex for over forty years and introduced a programme especially for youngsters – called The Shotokan Tigers.

The Shotokan Tigers  classes are aimed at children aged 5 years and above and allow children to learn the basic principles of this exciting martial art.  When they are ready, they can also join in the main classes.

The Shotokan Tigers classes are JUST FOR KIDS!

What are the benefits?

1. Improved concentration
2. Improved self esteem/self confidence
3. Improved fitness
4. Improved self discipline

Safety is paramount and all classes are supervised by at least one qualified KUGB Instructor who holds a special Karate first-aid qualification.

Parents and teachers frequently report on the improvement in the behaviour of children who train regularly at KUGB clubs.  This is because the emphasis is placed on good manners, courtesy and discipline.  Children learn about self-discipline, self control and respect for others in all aspects of their karate training. 

The achievement of coloured belts through gradings provides a short-term goal and structure that keeps children both interested and motivated.  A high quality certificate is presented to each student who successfully passes a grading.  There are specific minimum training requirements between gradings and no child is under pressure to take a grading if he/she does not feel particularly confident at that time.

The competitive aspect of Karate is thoroughly enjoyed by our younger members who can compete in Regional and National tournaments and their very own Shotokan Tigers competition.  There is no pressure to take part in competitions if a child really does not want to, however, we find that their enthusiasm for competition comes naturally.

Instructor Jane Naylor-Jones (4th Dan) said “It is our responsibility, as parents, to look after our children – but we can’t be there all of the time, that is why it is important for our children to learn to defend themselves, especially in today’s world."