The Krugersdorp Goju Ryu Karate Academy situated in Krugersdorp West is more than just a dojo as it fosters discipline, respect, self-defence and physical fitness among its members.
Under the expert guidance of Sensei Gi-Gi Albarran (a third Dan black belt) with over 20 years of experience, the academy has become a hub for martial arts enthusiasts of all ages.
According to Gi-Gi, karate has many benefits.
“Karate is an ancient method of training one’s body, mind and spirit to act as one. My husband Thomas Boshoff Shodan [a first Dan] is currently helping me as the assistant instructor and is excellent with the small children, they all love him. I prefer the older ones and adults as I can get down to business and the art of eliminating an attacker,” Gi-Gi shared.
“Goju Ryu Karate is one of the most dynamic styles of all martial arts. Body conditioning is part of our everyday training as this prepares the body to receive and effectively deal with punches and kicks to the body. It focuses on developing strength, muscular endurance, cardiovascular fitness and flexibility. In martial arts, etiquette and discipline are inseparable from the practice of the art. Members should not view it as an alien institution or ‘not cool’, but should view it in a personal uplifting context and understand it to be of intrinsic value to each individual. It distinguishes us from merely being a fighting club or a pugilistic institution,” she elaborated.
She added progress both in martial arts and on a personal level is dependent on the individual.
“Karate is also believed to benefit people suffering from attention-deficit or hyperactivity disorder, attention deficit disorder, asthma, Asperger’s, people with disabilities and other disorders,” she concluded.