Learning the art of self-defence at Shunkenkan JuJitsu

A calm mind and contemplative demeanour should never be seen as weakness. Having the knowledge and discipline to know when and how to act is a necessary and potentially life-saving skill.

Based at the NG Kerk on Georginia Street, Sensei Adrian van de Werken and his coaches are developing mental as well as physical discipline. “It is important to teach temperament so that students learn to channel their aggression. Anger does not help because you cannot think when you are angry, and you will only get hurt,” said the veteran Sensei.

Shunkenkan JuJitsu focuses on imparting the skills necessary to combat bullying and give one a fighting chance when encountering an attacker. Expectedly, 2020 has seen several students unable to continue but there is new blood joining the class. Among them is Ivana Pfister who wanted to continue her athletic lifestyle after she left school. “I’ve always done sport, always been active and this is a great way to get rid of negative energy,” explained the multi-subject tutor.

Joining her at the red-belt level is Demichee Kruger, and sisters Kirsten and Leah Isaacs. “A friend encouraged me to join. It is teaching me to protect myself as well as strengthen my muscles,” said Demichee, a Grade 8 learner at Lantern School. The Isaacs sisters are receiving high praise from their coaches for the ease with which they have taken to the Japanese martial art, with both confirming they feel safer and more confident after their introduction to the sport.

The girls will be hoping to move to white belt when they take their grading on 21 November. With the fight against gender-based violence a constant uphill battle, it is important to prepare the vulnerable members of society to one day fill their attackers with regret. Sensei Adrian and his three decades of experience can be called upon on 071 548 8014 or shunkenkan@gmail.com.