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Located in Abergavenny, the Abergavenny Shotokan Karate Club is the longest established karate club in the area. As the main dojo for the Japan Karate Association (JKA) in Wales, the club has a rich history spanning over 40 years and has produced numerous black belts.
Training takes place at the Abergavenny Leisure Centre school gym every Monday and Thursday evening from 7pm to 8:30pm. The club welcomes beginners of all ages, offering a friendly and supportive environment for individuals to learn and develop their skills in the Shotokan style of karate.
Affiliated with the Japan Karate Association England, the club follows the same training methods practised in Japan. The emphasis is on long-term development and understanding of karate techniques, rather than focusing solely on flashy moves or winning medals. In order to create a safe and enjoyable training experience, the club practises a non-contact style of karate.
Karate is not just a sport, but also a self-defence method and a fascinating martial art. It offers participants a chance to improve their fitness, develop discipline, and gain confidence. While karate provides a great workout, trainees are not expected to push themselves beyond their own limits. Individuals who may not be flexible or physically fit are given time to adapt to the training methods, gradually building their strength and abilities.
In an article from the Abergavenny Chronicle in 2013, the club celebrated its 35th anniversary and had the honour of being joined by Sensei Yoshinobu Ohta, the Chief Instructor for the Japanese Karate Association England. Ken Whittington, a former Welsh team captain and current instructor at the club, has been studying karate for over 40 years and has been with the club since its inception. He highlights the benefits of karate, such as discipline, respect, confidence, fitness, and fun.
The Abergavenny Shotokan Karate Club invites anyone interested in karate to come and join them. Beginners are always welcome and can either observe for a while or participate in the training sessions. The club prides itself on being inclusive and supportive, ensuring that individuals of all ages and abilities can benefit from the discipline and enjoyment that karate provides.
To find the club, head to the Abergavenny Leisure Centre and make your way to the school gym opposite the main entrance. The address is King Henry VIII Comprehensive School, Old Hereford Road, Abergavenny, Gwent NP7 6EP.
Join the Abergavenny Shotokan Karate Club and be a part of their storied history.
