The best defence is attack, says Ballito resident and karate teacher George Kemp

Patience, integrity, focus and the ability to defend yourself in a bad situation, karate might just be the exercise to add to your routine.

Ballito resident George Kemp has been practicing karate for as long as he can remember and is now teaching others the lessons that he has learned.

He is a 3rd Dan black belt instructor primarily focusing on the Shukokai Kimura form of karate.

“Shukokai Kimura is the most popular version of the sport in South Africa. It is high intensity and hard-hitting which makes it ideal for both self-defence and learning how to control your body,” said George.

Although teaching Afrikaans at Crawford International North Coast is a job he loves, karate is his passion and he dreams of representing South Africa in a world championship.

For now, however, he is content getting people moving and comfortable in stressful situations.

“Sure, karate can be used to fight, but it is not limited to that. It teaches you how to be self-disciplined and focused which you can take into any part of your life.”

The Courier sat in on one of his senior training sessions where he walked the students through some self-defence scenarios.

At the moment, George teaches in his garage but is hoping to move to a more formal premises once the coronavirus pandemic is over.

He offers junior classes (ages 6 to 15) and senior classes (ages 15+) on Monday and Thursday evenings. Junior classes are R420 per month, while seniors are R450.

To sign up or find out more, call George on 083 557 3904.

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