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Our Chief Instructor
Sensei Tracy Pillar, 6th Dan
I started training, in Gt. Yarmouth, in 1990 when my sister persuaded me to join the group. To begin with I preferred Kumite, as this is where I excelled. Over the years I came to realise the importance of Kata and how beneficial it is to our training as well as our state of mind. Knowing how much time, effort and dedication goes into getting them right, there's nothing I like better than seeing a Kata performed well. Over the years I have also participated in Tae Kwon Do and Mauy Thai lessons but my true passion is Karate.
I have won many trophies and medals in Kumite at local competitions as well as at a National level with the AMA (Amateur Martial Association). I am World Silver Medalist in Team Kata as part of the NMAC (National Martial Arts Committee) Great Britain team. I have also been part of the coaching team for the AMA and NMAC GB.
I am passionate about ensuring our Karate is inclusive regardless of age, gender, ability or disability.
The greatest benefit I have gained from my training is the mental development. It has helped me to be more positive, both inside and outside the Dojo, and enabled me to have better understanding of myself.. I now recognise what I can achieve with hard work and dedication and the confidence I have gained, through my training, has enabled me to pursue my goals in life.
My ultimate goal is to ensure that our students are happy, in the environment they train in, as well as helping each individual reach their full potential. I enjoy being there and helping them at every step of the journey they take to reach their own ultimate goal.
The Founder of Shukokai Karate
Shigeru Kimura 1941 - 1995
Shigeru Kimura was born on 2 March 1941, in Kobe, Japan. He began practising Judo at the age of 10. Later, he also practised Kendo.
In 1957, aged 16, Kimura began his Karate journey under Chojiro Tani. Initially, Kimura found the training very hard, but he dedicated himself to his training and was soon one of Tani’s best students. In 1961 aged 21, Kimura won the All Japan Championships. The following year he retained his title. However, he began to question the validity of the techniques used in his tournament successes. He felt that the techniques he used would be ineffective in real combat situations.
With the blessing of Tani, he began to explore how his techniques could be improved. Building on Tani’s use of body mechanics, Kimura took a scientific approach to improving his techniques. His research lead to new advancements in Shukokai Karate.
Kimura travelled to Southern Africa in 1965, to promote his improved version of Shukokai.
In 1968 Kimura arrived in the UK, where he conducted a number of courses and demonstrations, assisted by Yoshinao Nanbu, another of Tani’s students who had been promoting Shukokai Karate in Europe.
The Shukokai Karate Union (SKU) was established in the UK in 1969 and Tani was named President, with Kimura being named Vice President and Nanbu was named Chief Instructor. Students of the SKU included Stan Knighton, Bob Aikman, Roy Stanhope, Peter Consterdine, and Eddie Daniels. Some of these went on to train the founders of the Chinto Karate Group.
As ambassadors of Shukokai Karate, Kimura and Nanbu travelled around Europe, showcasing their version of Shukokai.
In 1970, with Shukokai Karate established in Europe and Southern Africa, Kimura moved to the United States. His aim was to promote Shukokai in the country. In 1972 Kimura opened his own dojo in Hackensack, New Jersey. The dojo also functioned as the Shukokai Headquarters.
By 1981 Shukokai had become established around the world.
On 7 July 1995, the Shukokai world was shocked by the sudden death of Shigeru Kimura from a heart attack. He was only 54 years at the time and was survived by his wife, who he had married in 1980. At the time of his death he was a 9th Dan and he was posthumously awarded his 10th Dan
As a mirror’s polished surface reflects whatever stands before it; and a quiet valley carries even small sounds, so must the student of Karate render their mind empty of selfishness and wickedness in an effort to react appropriately to anything they might encounter. This is the meaning of kara in karate.”
Specialised Classes
Home Educated Childrens Classes
Home Educated Childrens Classes
At the Chinto Karate Group, we offer two Mid-week training sessions for children that are Home Educated. Children are given the opportunity to train in a positive culture, where they feel safe and respected., experiencing a structured environment that fosters discipline and personal growth
This sessions can be used as part of their physical education, promoting fitness and agility and good health as well as building up confidence and self-esteem.
Ladies Only Class
Home Educated Childrens Classes
Our Ladies Only class is held every Monday at 7.45pm in Gorleston. This is the perfect way to de-stress after a hard day at work or looking after the children.
Little Ninjas Classes
Little Ninjas Classes
We offer Little Ninjas Classes twice weekly in Gorleston. These training sessions are for children from 3 to 7 years old. Little Ninjas learn karate in a fun way by incorporating games in their training. We hold Ninja gradings that eventually lead to a place in our normal classes
Our Club Coaches
James Campbell, 3rd Dan
I started training in September 1985 at the original location of ESKA at the International High School, on Great Yarmouth seafront. Sadly I had to stop training in 1997 due to injury. Much later, after meeting Tracy at a fundraiser, I was persuaded back and after a 17 year break, I re- joined The Chinto Karate Group, this was in November 2014. My preferred aspect of karate is Kumite as it gives you the opportunity to test your skills and knowledge in a controlled manner. However since returning I have a far greater respect and appreciation of kata.
To me the greatest benefits I have gained from karate are physical exercise, mental wellbeing and camaraderie.
The Chinto Karate Group stands out for me because of its' friendly approach and family feeling
Keith Nixon, 4th Dan
I started my time in martial arts 14/15 years ago having promised my Daughter that when she became Black belt I would start.
I am currently a 4th Dan in Shukokai Karate with the CKG, but I also achieved 1st Dan in Taekwondo at a previous club. Of the main elements of karate I have a preference for Kata as I believe it shows all aspects of your given style.
I have competed at World and European level with Team GB, National Champion at club level with CKG, Whilst with Team GB gained 2 silver and 3 Bronze medals.
I would say the greatest benefit of Martial Arts is the friendships you develop through your journey as well as meeting fellow Martial artists from around the world. My main goal is to pass on things I have learnt from other Martial artists to new students.
Personally I would say Chinto Karate Group is the best school you can attend as a family group. We have had many Families train together.
Janet Shreeve, 5th Dan
I started Karate in 2000 with my 2 children who both went on and achieved their black belts !at Lynn Grove High School (in the dining room which made life interesting ) in order to give me confidence whilst out walking alone especially within towns and cities.
Of all the aspects of karate I prefer to practice Kihon (traditional techniques) and Kata.
I haven't entered many competitions but I did come 1st in a local Kata competition.
I believe that the greatest benefits of karate are increased self awareness and confidence as well as maintaining fitness and flexibility You can also build strong and lasting friendships.
It would be nice to proclaim that I have an ultimate karate goal but, to be honest, all I want is to continue training and give back the support and knowledge to others.
I think the things that makes The Chinto Karate Group different is the acceptance of people from all walks of life and the fact that no one is egotistical and everyone is welcoming. Everyone is treated individually.
If I were to include any regrets it's would be that I wish I had started sooner.
Cassie Hill, 3rd Dan
I started karate training at my school, Greenacre primary, in 2001, when I was 4 years old. When the club started I wanted to try something new and find something I enjoyed. At the time I was going through a rough time at home and at school, so it helped me physically and mentally and emotionally.
I don't have any specific preference when it comes to kata, kumite or kihon because I enjoy it all and I'm always happy to learn more.
I have competed several times and have many national titles I also achieved the following:
Team GB, Austria: 3 silvers and 3 bronze in world games, Canada: 4 x world champion for world games, South Africa: 1x world champion at world games.
AMA England squad; Malta: 1 x Silver medal at European championships, Dundee Scotland: 1 xWorld Champion.
Karate has helped me improve physically, emotionally and socially. It has also allowed me to understand how to live a good life from the inspiration of my instructor and have created a second family who I know are always willing to help and there when you need them. Karate helped me to be resilient and strong and helped me to understand who I am.
I think for me personally what makes the Chinto Karate Group so different is that everybody helps each other and everyone is fully invested in karate especially the instructor, Tracy.
The club always has a positive vibe and atmosphere. Tracy and the club have helped me massively through my life both with karate and outside of karate and has always been there for me when I needed support.
Jeff Loveland, 2nd Dan
Why Choose Chinto Karate Group?
At the Chinto Karate Group, we pride ourselves on our experienced and dedicated coaches, who are committed to helping every student reach their full potential, We offer classes for all ages and skill levels, and provide a supportive and encouraging environment where students can learn and grow.
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Get Started Today
Don't wait to start your Karate journey. We offer classes for students of all ages and abilities, from beginners to advanced.practitioners with the opportunity to pay as you train. All you need is a willingness to try. Contact us today to schedule your first class!