Hi everyone, i'm from Newcastle, NSW myself, and i'm starting GKR on monday I was just wondering, is it worth it? And i've head its non-contact and I want a martial art for self defense. Is it or isn't it? Or does non-contact just mean that you dont do contact in classes but it trains you for real situations???

Hi Necro. Nice to see some one hoping to enjoy the sport. I think it is worth it i have been doing it now for a couple of months and just graded to yellow belt. I have found that i feel better, fitter and a bonus i have lost weight as well so it can't be bad. You learn self control and dissipline I wonder what are you looking for to gain in doing karate is it just for the fighting or all the other things that go with training

KIM

Self Defense is a priority.

Well this is a good place to have a chat about it.Welcome

Well this is a good place to have a chat about it.Welcome

So guys, is this a good martial art for self defense?

It is worth it. i've been doing it 4 just over 2 years now and i am a lot fitter and feel better ect. I haven't needed it in a real self defense situation (thank god) but i have become more confident, after starting karate, that i could handle having to defend myself in a real situation.
Also depending on which dojo you go to and which sensei (instructor) u have they sometimes do some self defense stuff. like how to get out of things like a front choke, a bear hug ect.

From my limited experience it doesnt seem a priority.

I have been able to train with instructors who do self defence techniques, but generally its not considered appropriate to teach.

Maybe if everyone requested it we could get this changed?

Hello and welcome, Necro!

Agree with the comments - its not something thats encouraged but also not against the rules either. Instructor knowledge would dictate how much is done in class. I'd suggest ask other students and shop around and I'm sure you will find a class that suits you .

Hi Necro

welcome to the board

I don't think GKR is better than any other martial art for self-defence, unless your intructor takes that direction, and there are some martial arts that focus on self defence techniques much more BUT I believe the basic moves and blocks, and the training and conditioning are a good step towards feeling more confident should you find yourself in such a bad situation, even the more traditional kata steps are better to know than not! you are being taught to react quickly and flexibly without conscious thought, its got to be a good thing

right les

BUT provided that reaction is still somewhat controlled...
you don't want that "self-defence" technique to land you in a assault charge case.....

but that's another thread