WATCH: Women enjoys martial arts seminar

This unique multi-discipline martial arts seminar showcased all types of martial arts under expert tuition by some of the countries top female instructors.

It was open to all women, with participants ranging from 13 years to 68 years.

Some of the participants had some form of previous experience but nearly half had no experience whatsoever. Ladies even travelled from as far as Nelspruit, Bethal and Secunda to be part of the amazing event.

“The numbers had to be limited due to Covid-19 restrictions, but all 85 places were booked and the strict Covid protocols in place did not dampen the enthusiasm of the ladies, who still learnt a lot and had fun in the process. Generous donors ensured the ladies had a goodie bag to take home with them,” said senior instructor Karyn Smith (5th Dan).

“The day started at 08:00 with a high energy Zumba session by the indomitable Luize Tattle, who got the ladies warmed up and raring to go.

“The martial arts instructors then imparted their knowledge and experience with supreme professionalism, demonstrating that each discipline offers something unique.

“They often complemented one another with their many similarities. The goal of this unique event was to enrich and empower women by sharing knowledge between styles and disciplines and to encourage newbies to join some form of martial arts for fitness, fun and self defence – by all accounts it was mission accomplished,” said Smith.

A number of disciplines were covered in dual sessions that were held simultaneously in two separate halls, with participants able to choose which session they would like to attend.

Due to the Covid situation, judo and ju-jitsu were omitted from the programme as the level of inter-personal contact required is too high under Covid protocols.

That still left a host of disciplines to explore, including boxing, Chinese kickboxing, shotokan karate, Krav Maga, kung fu, Muay Thai and taekwondo.

The day wound down with the final of the seven sessions starting at around 16:00. Participants could choose either tai chi or yoga for their final session.

“The Bosco Youth Centre once again provided an amazing setting, with an out-in-the-country feel, without having to drive for hours. They served fabulous food for lunch and tea times to keep the ladies going.

“Hopefully the 2022 event will see a return to normalcy, so all disciplines can again be included and numbers opened up. However, a maximum of 110 participants will be able to be accommodated. Therefore, ladies are encouraged to secure their space early as booking are already being received,” Smith concluded.