What is Breakthrough Karate?
– watch our short video
The Breakthrough Karate program offers free in-person and online classes to people with Parkinson’s Disease who learn and practice traditional Shotokan karate methods to fight Parkinson’s and improve their health. Students witness not only delay of disease, but some reversal of symptoms and greater confidence in their daily lives.
What are the benefits of karate?
Karate is the polar opposite of Parkinsonism. Where Parkinson’s makes a person shaky, slow, quiet, and unsteady, karate is dynamic, smooth, loud, and balanced. Using these principles of martial arts, karate can help slow the neurologic problems that tend to progress in Parkinson’s. The benefits of practicing karate include strength, stamina, focused energy and inner peace.
Can I even do karate?
Yes, you can! Karate is about developing physical and mental fitness regardless of age, ability, or previous experience. Practicing karate brings students a new sense of accomplishment and stronger self-confidence. The goal needn’t be to become a world-class martial arts competitor. Instead, the student, regardless of their physical level, practices karate to “cultivate a spirit of perseverance” and “exert oneself in the perfection of character.” These are two of the five principles that guide all students at the Breakthrough Karate dojo (training school.)
Is Karate difficult to learn?
For all students, karate is both easy to start learning and difficult to master. But remember: you cannot do karate wrong; you can only do it better! With a focus on karate fundamentals like proper balance, correct form for punches and kicks, and distinctive movement techniques, studying this martial art can be done at any age and all physical levels.
How much does Breakthrough Karate cost? How do I join?
All classes are free, both in person and online.
Want to try a class? Just submit this waiver. We’ll send you a welcome notification and, if you plan to attend online, the Zoom coordinates to join our Friday 1pm CT virtual class!
What happens in class?
Watch this video from a Breakthrough Karate training class.
Can I just attend classes online?
Yes! Weekly classes are taught simultaneously in person and online via Zoom every Friday, 1pm CT.
Just fill out and submit the online waiver form here and we’ll email you the Zoom coordinates.
Then join us for free every Friday, 1:00-2:00 pm CST.
Does karate replace my current PD treatment?
No! Breakthrough Karate is a supplement to, not a replacement for your prescribed treatment and medication.
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The program also serves as a network of support as people encourage and care for one another.
To learn more about how to participate in Breakthrough Karate in person and online, Contact Us.