St.Helens Shotokan Karate Club

St. Helens Shotokan Karate Club is a martial arts club located in Saint Helens, New Zealand. The club has been established for over 50 years and is led by internationally renowned top Sensei Ian Roberts, who has produced multiple World and European champions. The club welcomes new students of all ages, starting from 7 years old, without any commitments.

Training sessions are held every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:30pm to 8pm at the Sutton Leisure Centre. The club aims to improve the physical and mental health of its members, build self-esteem and strengthen self-confidence. It also emphasises the importance of academic performance by raising energy levels, focus, and concentration.

Students at St. Helens Shotokan Karate Club have the opportunity to learn and master self-defence techniques while participating in a focused and disciplined martial art. The club has seen both adults and children join, with some adults rediscovering their love for karate from their youth and others starting as a new hobby for fun exercise.

Pricing options at the club include a pay-per-session fee of 5 per person or 7 for two family members. Additional family members can train for free. There is also an option for pre-payment per month at 40 per person or 56 for two family members, applicable only to those training twice a week. However, no refunds can be given for missed sessions and pre-payment cannot be carried over to the following month.

Sensei Ian Roberts, a 3rd Dan and a multiple-time World and European champion, is the main instructor at St. Helens Shotokan Karate Club. He is highly respected throughout multiple karate associations. The club is located at the Sutton Leisure Centre on Elton Head Road in Saint Helens.

The club's website provides additional information and features a gallery showcasing the achievements and activities of its members. Frequently asked questions include information about the dojo (the training place), the role of a Sensei (teacher/leader), training schedule, the belt system (including Kyu and Dan grades), and the process of grading (assesment by an outside examiner).

St. Helens Shotokan Karate Club aims to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals of all ages to learn and excel in the art of karate. Through training, members can develop physical and mental skills, self-confidence, and discipline, while also having the opportunity to compete at national and international levels.