“Traditional Karate is not only a sport. It helps character formation, which is a very important aspect for the development of children and teenagers,” said Peter Pace, Traditional Karate coach for KMS Skolasport. “It instils motivation, self confidence, self discipline, an attitude of respect for learning and the mentality to always strive to be better.”

A mixed group of youngsters between the ages of 11 and 16 meet at the Cottonera Sports Complex to practice Traditional Karate as part of KMS Skolasport’s programme, which is orgnaised by Kunsill Malti ghall-iSport (KMS) and sponsored by Kellogg’s. Sessions are held every Saturday morning between 9.00am and 10.30CET.

“In Traditional Karate everything focuses around the use of the core muscles which are located under the abdominals. This is the source of power of an athlete and it is literally like the engine of the body. Thus, an individual who practices Traditional Karate has a good body balance and posture,” said Mr Pace.

Apart from the psychological benefits of practising Traditional Karate, there are also a number of physical benefits. Reflexes, strength and endurance are bolstered if the discipline is practiced regularly. Traditional Karate helps students coordinate their moves in a dynamic movement, and enables them to gain control of muscles which they do not normally use in everyday activities. Muscle development of the legs and arms is also emphasised through this activity.

Mr Iden Azzopardi, Traditional Karate coach for KMS Skolasport said that students’ progress is consistent and they are showing interest by training at home and by active contribution during the sessions. Through this sport the students have learnt to respect each other and work as a team. Various former students who originally started training with Skolasport have progressed and started competing and attending seminars with the Traditional Karate Federation of Malta.
Kellogg’s promotes good nutrition, physical fitness and a healthy diet which complements KMS Skolasport’s philosophy.

For further information about KMS Skolasport kindly contact Head of Programmes Ms Tanya Zahra at the Kunsill Malti ghall-iSport, Cottonera Sports Complex, Cottonera on telephone 21660658/9, fax 21660652, email programmes@sportmalta.org.mt or visit www.sportmalta.org.mt.