Videos

Two of HDKI’s rising instructors join the UK Karate Podcast for a special episode. In this episode, we sit down with Amelia Senft Sensei and Natalie Böttcher Sensei from HDKI (Hombu Dojo Karate International) for an in-depth conversation about Shotokan karate, competition, coaching, grading, women in karate and the future of karate training. Both HDKI GB Southern Squad Coaches, Amelia and Natalie discuss their karate journeys, experiences competing and coaching, the lessons they’ve learned through training, and their passion for helping the next generation of karateka develop. Whether you train in Shotokan Karate, HDKI, JKA, WKF, WUKF, SKIF, or simply love martial arts, this episode offers valuable insights into karate coaching, kata, kumite, competition mindset, dojo culture and lifelong training. 🥋 In this episode we discuss: ✅ How Amelia Senft Sensei started karate ✅ Natalie Böttcher Sensei’s karate journey & competition success ✅ HDKI GB Squad Coaching & developing young karat…

Sensei Andy Sherry's legendary KUGB squad sessions: the lineup. It wasn't just about blocking; it was about building warrior spirit and facing the challenge head-on. #Karate #MartialArts #Sensei #Discipline #WarriorSpirit

Watching your child on the field is an emotional rollercoaster. Every parent's worst fear: broken ribs, lost teeth, concussions. But seeing him execute that perfect hook kick in the first 10 seconds? Pure triumph. #MartialArtsMom #ProudMom #SportsParenting #HookKick #YouthSports

A shocking on-air incident: A radio host recounts the moment he accidentally delivered a knockout blow, resulting in a severe injury and derailing an opponent's career. The unintended consequence of a split-second action. #AccidentalKnockout #CareerEndingInjury #RadioHostStories #UnintendedConsequences

It's not about being world's best, but about being your best self. Finding enjoyment, sharpening techniques, and sharing ideas in karate. No blood, sweat, or tears—just smiles after a good sweat. #KarateLife #MartialArts #TrainingMotivation #MindfulTraining #EnjoyTheJourney

Winning felt great, until a competitor's parent confronted me: 'When are you going to let someone else have a go?' Success can be isolating. #FSKChampion #Competition #SportsPsychology #Winning

Learn why being equally skilled with both hands is crucial in combat sports. Analyze legendary fighters and discover the advantage of true ambidexterity. #Ambidextrous #CombatSports #MartialArts #FightingTechnique #SportsScience

Ever wonder about the risks in martial arts? From infected hands from teeth to serious injuries, this short reveals the unexpected dangers lurking in the dojo. #MartialArts #DojoLife #TrainingAccidents #SelfDefense

The raw intensity of bare knuckle boxing—no mitts, pure impact. Some say it's more controlled, others argue it's inherently more dangerous. What do you think? #BareKnuckle #Boxing #CombatSports #MartialArts

In 1994, an ice storm hit, shutting down the town and cutting power and water. Yet, training continued inside a freezing YMCA gym all weekend. The most memorable camp ever. #MartialArts #TrainingCamp #WinterStorm #YMCA #MemorableMoments

Achieving a championship is one thing, but the legend status comes from doing it again and again. Where does that relentless drive originate after the first triumph? #Motivation #Championship #SportsPsychology #Drive #Perseverance

🥋 ROB BINGHAM SENSEI | From SKIF to World Gold | Competition, Coaching & Karate Journey | UK Karate Podcast Welcome to another episode of the UK Karate Podcast — where every karate journey has a story. In this episode, we sit down with Sensei Rob Bingham, a highly respected karate instructor, elite competitor, and national kata coach with decades of experience in traditional and sport karate. Rob shares his incredible karate journey, starting at just 6 years old in 1987, training under Sensei Dave Kershaw in Grimsby within SKIF under Hanshi Asano. From earning his Shodan in 1992 and achieving national success, to competing on the international stage and becoming a World & European Champion, Rob’s story is one of dedication, resilience, and continuous evolution. We discuss: 🥋 Starting karate in the SKIF era under Hanshi Asano 🏆 National success and progression through Shodan, Nidan & Sandan 🌍 Competing internationally at the SKIF World Championships in Bali 🇩🇰🇺🇦 European Champions…

Unlock peak performance by deeply understanding the 'buttons to push.' This isn't just business; it's a Miyamoto Musashi strategy applied to life. Anticipate needs, adapt to your environment, and achieve the right results. #Strategy #LifeLessons #MiyamotoMusashi #Mindset #Success

Can't handle sincere, constructive criticism? You might be in the wrong place. Passionate teaching means flipping out when advice isn't followed. This is for you. #ConstructiveCriticism #Feedback #PersonalGrowth #Coaching

Karate built confidence in our children, especially our shy eldest son. My wife and I train together too! We say, "The family that kicks together sticks together." It truly molded us. #FamilyMartialArts #ConfidenceBoost #KarateLife #FamilyBonding

Starting karate can be a humbling journey, but its impact on troubled youth is profound. It builds discipline, respect, and a new sense of self-worth. #Karate #YouthEmpowerment #Discipline #MartialArts #PositiveChange

A father beams with pride as his 10-year-old son, Jonty, achieves an incredible feat at the JKS Europeans in Denmark, clinching multiple gold medals. A testament to dedication and talent. #ProudDad #MartialArts #YouthSports #Talent #GoldMedalist

True karate mastery means well-rounded training. Learn to roll, fall, kick, and use weapons to protect yourself. Embrace all martial arts to become a complete warrior. #Karate #MartialArts #SelfDefense #WellRounded

Discover how karate offers a powerful outlet to combat life's blues and seasonal low moods. A unique path to mental resilience and a positive outlook. #KarateLife #MentalHealth #Wellbeing #MartialArts #PositiveVibes

Two-time All Japan champion, Sensei Mikami, embodies magnetic energy and unwavering confidence. Discover what truly makes a great instructor: inspiring belief and radiating undeniable power. #SenseiMikami #MartialArts #InstructorTips #WinningMindset

The secret sauce of amazing teachers: infectious energy, magnetic presence, unshakeable confidence, and humble spirit. Speaker and Sensei Mikami show the way. #InstructorTips #TeachingSkills #EffectiveCommunication #LeadershipQualities

In this episode of the UK Karate Podcast, we sit down with Sensei Rachel Kattawar — a 5th Dan black belt with the Japan Karate Association (JKA), 6-time JKA National Kata Champion, and former Junior Olympics champion representing Team USA Rachel shares her incredible karate journey, from her early success in competition to becoming one of the leading figures in American Shotokan karate. We dive deep into the world of JKA USA, exploring the differences between the US and UK karate scenes, the realities of high-level kata competition, and what it takes to stay at the top over many years. This is a powerful conversation about discipline, longevity, and evolving with karate — while staying true to traditional values. 🎯 In this episode we cover: Training and competing in JKA USA 🥇 What it takes to become a national kata champion 🧠 The mindset behind elite performance 🌍 Differences between UK and US karate 💻 Teaching karate in the modern world (online & in person) 🥋 Staying motivated t…

Becoming a top international athlete requires playing major tournaments globally, a significant financial commitment. This lack of financial backing is why England has fallen behind in international sports. #AthleteFunding #SportsFinance #InternationalSports #EnglandSports

Told I'd be in a wheelchair by 30 due to a hip injury, I defied expectations. Japanese philosophy on squats and building muscle saved my karate journey. #HipInjury #Karate #JapanesePhilosophy #OvercomingObstacles #MuscleBuilding