From medieval enforcer to modern Karateka

The Sheriff of Canterbury, Cllr Steph Jupe, took time out from a hectic schedule to blow off a little steam this week and to help shout about a campaign to encourage women to take up karate.

Cllr Jupe visited Sochin Karate Club, Canterbury to meet club members and learn a few karate moves – including the kiai, which is a shout used in martial arts to release energy and focus the mind before an attack or defence.

The club is running a This Girl Can campaign to shout about the physical and mental health benefits of karate as well as the empowerment and improved confidence it can bring to women, and Cllr Jupe came to give her backing to the initiative. 

The team of black belt instructors at the club include Karen Eastlake, of Wincheap, and Emma Rosen, of Deal.

Simon Dolby, Club Treasurer, said: “Historically the Sheriff of Canterbury would have been in charge of policing the city so combat skills would have been a necessity. Today the civic role is purely ceremonial, but it was great fun for the club to show a modern Sheriff self-defence skills.”

Steph said: “It was great fun training with Sochin Karate Club, learning more about this sport and seeing first hand how it can improve both physical and mental health. I am delighted to support the club’s This Girl Can campaign to encourage more women to take up the sport as it is a great way to encourage confidence and fitness – and with two women black belt instructors on the teaching team this really feels like a safe, welcoming environment for women to train.” 

The club trains on Monday and Thursday evenings from 7pm. Until Monday, 22 December the club will train at Kendall Hall and then after the festive break the club will relocate to the main building at Canterbury College, New Dover Road, Canterbury. Pop along at 6.45pm on a club night to meet members and find out more or visit 79.170.40.38/sochinkarateclub.co.uk/wp/ 

To book your free Discover Karate session click here: https://rb.gy/ohax8s