You probably have an idea in your head of what karate training looks like. At Good Fight, we do things a little differently. We teach modern karate in Valencia, blending striking with throws from judo and groundwork from jiu-jitsu. Teenagers train in a T-shirt and comfortable clothes, work up a sweat and get to grips with all three in one class.

I earned my black belt in Shotokan karate under Sensei Rick Hotton. One of the things I respect most about Rick is that he expected me to develop a karate of my own. Training with Chinzo Machida taught me to ask a practical question. Does your karate still work when your partner changes the distance and you have to improvise?

That’s why we spend so much time working with partners. Memorising a form is one skill. Keeping your balance against someone who knows judo is another. I want my students to experience that resistance, learn what holds up under pressure and have the freedom to do something I didn’t show them. Some of the most satisfying moments in training come when someone catches you with a move you both know and you have to give them credit. They earned it.

I believe learning to fight is one of the best ways to learn to avoid a fight. Physical contact gives you a healthy respect for how easily you can get hurt and how easily you can hurt someone else. As a father, I think about the moment somebody tries to get a rise out of you in front of your friends. All those hours on the mat count for something there, too. When you know how to handle yourself, walking away becomes easier.

Good Teens starts Saturday 28 November at Core, Carrer dels Sapadors 47, Valencia. Classes run on Saturdays from 10:15h to 11:45h for ages 13–18 and cost €40 a month. I teach in English, and you’re welcome even if you’re still learning the language. Parents can stay and watch.

Article copyright ’24/7 Valencia’

Class details and reservations: https://valenciamartialarts.com/teens/