HAITO KARATE REVIEWS

Why did I choose HAITO Karate?I chose HAITO Karate because I was looking for Kyokushin, as a former kickboxing and judo fighter I have been around the block a bit and was looking to start up martial arts again, when I decided on something new - Karate - I also decided on Kyokushin, I knew exactly what I was signing up for - and you should too! Kyokushin is not something you choose to do for a laugh.What is my experience and opinion of Sensei Gabi?Sensei Gabi is a former European silver medalist and former member of the Lithuanian national Karate squad. She is both tough and intelligent, do not mistake her kindness or generosity for weakness. Sensei Gabi runs a tight ship in the dojo, you are there to train, to learn, to be respectful and to push yourself. Sensei Gabi pushed me to my limit and then beyond, helping me win a gold medal in a kata tournament representing HAITO.Sensei Gabi has a unique style of teaching and presentation of her classes, this isn't for everyone. If you are not paying attention or being rude, or late to class, or you have wrong dojo etiquette, believe me you are quickly going to find out. If you are wrong, then Sensei Gabi will tell you without hesitation that you are wrong and why, you should listen to what she is saying because Sensei Gabi has been to the top and knows exactly what it takes to get there. Personally, I like this approach, I believe it instills respect, humbleness, accountability and teaches you to be mindful of where you are and who you are with. If you are looking for someone to be a bit 'mumsy' then HAITO is not for you and probably neither is Kyokushin.What do I think of the dojo?The dojo at HAITO is among the best I have had the honour to train at in my years. It is always immaculate. The dojo prides itself on health and cleanliness. Each and everytime you walk in, the dojo is fresh, and considering the dojo is open 5x a week I can't even imagine how much cleaning Sensei Gabi must do.When tournaments are held at the dojo, Sensei transforms it into something that I have never experienced, she really goes the extra mile to make it feel like something you will never forget. I would honestly challenge anyone to attend another dojo during tournaments and see if they do it better.Would I recommend HAITO?Yes, 100%. But, be warned - this is Kyokushin, this is no joke and not something you take on as just 'something to do' it's a commitment and dedication, it is in fact a lifestyle choice. When you join you will quickly realise why Kyokushin is considered the hardest form of karate. To walk among Kyokushin is an honour not everyone is ready for.What do I think of Kyokushin?As I said earlier in my review Kyokushin is what I came looking for, Kyokushin doesn't come looking for you. Being a former Judoka I have faught battles and am comfortable in heavy violence. I've had ribs broken, toes dislocated, nose broken and arm muscles popped. Kyokushin is very much like that world, when they hit you - they really mean it.

I started lessons in Kyokushin karate at Haito just over a month ago post mat leave and having a lot of work to do to improve my fitness. I was warmly welcomed by Sensei Gabi on my first lesson and pretty much hooked by the end of the first week. Sensei's style of teaching brings out the best in her students encouraging us to challenge ourselves and to achieve. Haito is not like going to other classes, I was immediately struck by the level of dedication Sensei Gabi has for her students. This class and style combines everything I have loved in the past about karate and fitness. If you are willing to work hard and challenge yourself you won't find a better karate class in Peterborough 👌 ✨️

A great space, and a home away from home for the students that attend. My son loves it here, and is very excited to see what it becomes. The owner is very welcoming and extremely dedicated. The work she has put in to this dojo is amazing and I wish her and the students all the best. Would recommend to anyone.