Karate
Karate is a Japanese martial art based on techniques that were developed in Okinawa and China that focuses on self-defence using punches, kicks and blocks. Despite this emphasis, other techniques such as joint locks, throws and leg sweeps are also included in the system. In this respect, karate is one of the few martial arts that contains such a wide range of techniques.
Training in martial arts has many benefits, including:
- Fun and active courses - Improving confidence and social awareness - Development of co-ordination and balance - World-wide recognised syllabus based structured trainingKarate enables students to develop and progress at their own pace, giving appropriate recognition of achievement through its structured syllabus and gradings. There is a grading examination at the end of each term leading up to black belt. These gradings are all held at The Leys School. Karate has been a popular activity at The Leys School and has been running for a number of years.
VENUE AND EQUIPMENT
The school provides crash mats for break falling exercises, punch bags and protective equipment. Students will be required to purchase a karate uniform.
COMPETITION
Leys Schools students take part in the annual Just Karate kata competition held in December. Here they compete against students from across Cambridgeshire.
COACHING
Coaching is organised by Just Karate which is an established organisation that runs martial arts classes and programmes throughout Cambridgeshire. Ashley Martin is the Chief Instructor and Grading Examiner of Just Karate and is also the author of The Shotokan Karate Bible.