There are plenty of ways to reach your New Year fitness resolutions, but karate, kickboxing and martial arts training offer a fun, alternative way to stay in shape in 2017.
Dubai-based professional MMA fighter and former international karate gold medallist Rafat Shawe has opened up classes this month for adults and kids.
Shawe has launched his new classes at James & Alex Dance Studios in Dubai Media City, offering students an opportunity to learn valuable self-defence techniques and overcome challenges.
The benefits shared between the three disciplines are perfect for both developing children, as well as adults wanting to get fit and take on a new hobby.
Kickboxing is an excellent form of stress release, while also sharpening reflexes and improving co-ordination and balance.
Martials arts, on the other hand, improve strength, flexibility and fitness. Those are just the physical benefits though, with the mental aspects including relaxation, self-confidence, increased awareness and more.
Shawe’s karate classes for kids aged five to 12 are split into different age groups and meet the needs of each child individually.
Get a kick out of it: Rafat Shawe is holding classes in Dubai Media City.
The hour-long sessions are held on Mondays and Thursdays, with the term beginning on Monday, January 16 and costing Dh1,680.
For adults, the kickboxing training, which is expected to burn at least 600 calories during a typical class, are open for all fitness levels and experience.
The programme starts on Saturday, January 21 and costs Dh65 per class or Dh720 for 12 sessions. For more information and to book a class, contact James & Alex Dance Studios at 04 447 0773 or email info@jamesandalex.com.
For those interested, Shawe also offers boot camps, one-on-one training, group training and classes at other locations in Dubai.
Check out his Facebook page at www.facebook.com/RafatShaweTrainer to stay up to date. Join Shaw in the New Year and experience kickboxing and karate for yourself to make your fitness goals a reality.
What: Karate and kickboxing classes with Rafat Shawe
Where: James & Alex Dance Studios, Dubai Media City
When: Kids karate held Mondays and Thursdays at 17:00, with adult kickboxing on Saturdays at 16:00
Contact: Call 04 447 0773 to book a class and visit www.facebook. com/RafatShaweTrainer for more information.