Kiryoku Karate Dojo

This was a huge push for me in eventually pursuing my path in training martial arts and always encouraging women especially to tap into the power they don't always realise or believe they have! Even a little knowledge of self defence can go a Long Way in staying safe..it all starts with AWARENESS!

Day 3, today features my mom. Sometimes it escalates and sometimes it doesn’t but rather be left wondering what the intentions were than finding out they were the worst. Join us for a self defence workshop tomorrow morning and we will cover some practical techniques for staying safe and staying aware. see you there.

If you’ve ever found yourself leaning into your car, fighting with car seat straps while also wrestling your baby who is arching their back defiantly and refusing to get into their car seat… then this one is for you!

I believe that every woman has a story or knows someone with a story that has set off their “spidey” senses. Maybe it escalated maybe it didn’t but the fact is that it exists in the first place. 

On Sat 8 Aug 2026, I am collabing with @f45_training_morningside and @Kiryoku_Dojo to Bring you a ladies self defence workshop. 

I’m pretty passionate about this topic and believe in empowering all with practical every day skills. 

This is my “spidey sense” story. 
#selfdefence #f45trainingmorningside

If Your Stance Is Weak, Your Karate Is Weak

Every technique in karate begins with the stance. Before speed, before power, and before advanced combinations, there is a simple truth: if your stance is unstable, everything built upon it will eventually fail. A strong punch delivered from a weak foundation loses its force. A fast kick launched without balance becomes slow to recover. This is why experienced karate masters spend countless hours refining their stance long before chasing spectacular techniques.

A proper stance is more than where you place your feet. It is the connection between your body and the ground. It creates stability, balance, and the ability to generate power efficiently. Whether performing Zenkutsu-dachi, Kokutsu-dachi, or Kiba-dachi, every movement depends on maintaining a solid base. Without it, even the best techniques become ineffective.

Strong stances also develop discipline. Holding a deep stance for extended periods challenges the legs, strengthens the core, and builds mental endurance. It teaches patience because true strength cannot be rushed. Every minute spent perfecting your stance is an investment that improves every strike, block, and movement you will ever perform.

Balance is equally important. Karate is not simply about attacking—it is about controlling your body in every situation. A stable stance allows you to defend effectively, counter with precision, and remain composed under pressure. The strongest karateka are rarely the ones who move the fastest; they are the ones who never lose their balance.

The lesson extends beyond the dojo. Your stance in life is your character, discipline, and values. When your principles are strong, outside pressure cannot easily shake you. Challenges become opportunities to grow rather than reasons to quit. Just as your feet anchor your body, your mindset anchors your future.

Many beginners focus on flashy kicks and powerful punches because they look impressive. Experienced practitioners know that excellence is built from fundamentals. They understand that mastering the basics is not a shortcut—it is the destination. Every black belt continues to practice stances because fundamentals never stop being important.

The quote, "If your stance is weak, your karate is weak," is not merely technical advice. It is a reminder that greatness is built from a strong foundation. Strength begins at the ground, rises through the body, and is expressed through disciplined movement. Build your foundation patiently, train with purpose, and never underestimate the power of the basics. When your stance becomes unshakable, your karate will naturally become stronger, more efficient, and more confident.

Women’s Month is all about celebrating strength, confidence, and empowering one another. 💙 Join us on Saturday, 8 August, for a special Women’s Self-Defence Class led by Kiryoku Dojo - Sensei France Harington (6th Dan Karate). Whether you’ve never done self-defence before or want to build on your skills, this session will teach you practical techniques to help you feel more confident, aware, and prepared in everyday situations. No previous experience is needed, just come ready to learn something new in a supportive and welcoming environment. Spots are limited, so don’t miss out! Secure your place by booking through the link in our bio. Let’s celebrate Women’s Month by investing in our strength, both physically and mentally. We can’t wait to see you in studio! 💪🥋

YES. THIS!

Energy is contagious — so choose your circle wisely. Surround yourself with people who remind you of your potential, who encourage your growth, and who celebrate your wins like they’re their own. 💕 The right people don’t compete with you; they inspire you to dream bigger, think deeper, and rise higher.

When you find souls who bring peace to your chaos, laughter to your heavy days, and light to your path, hold onto them. Because your environment shapes your mindset — and your mindset shapes your future. 🌿

This week, take a moment to appreciate those who lift you up, cheer for you even in your small wins, and remind you that you’re capable of extraordinary things. Tag them below and let them know how much they mean to you. 🫶