Reviews of SYTL Karate

SYTL karate no longer exists after its founder and chief instructor, Paul Batters, did a runner with everyone's money, never turned up, abandoned students to teach themselves, and was a crook. Club folded during Covid.

A great sport to start it helps a lot with flexibility, concentration, stress relief and a lot of other things.

SYTL has been running in East Devon for 2 years now and has a very varied mix of graded students so that all ages and abilities should feel relaxed and welcome.

The lessons themselves differ weekly and keep students motivated and interested. The classes are run in a friendly atmosphere with good facilities and Paul and the team are always happy to explain techniques multiple times and in different ways to ensure the students understand and enjoy their time in the dojo.

Sensei Paul regularly runs events and seminars and the students are often then given opportunities to learn from other black belts and students from other dojos, giving them new opportunities to refresh their skills and pick up new tips from someone else.

My son has been going for nearly 2 years and I was so impressed that I joined myself at 36 and having never taken part in anything remotely similar. I just wish I had joined something like this when I was younger and could learn quicker (but Paul is adamant that I am progressing well!).

SYTL offer taster sessions, so there really is no excuse not to at least give it a try.

SYTL stands for Say Yes To Life - a great name for a Karate Club which has classes for all ages. Outstanding teaching ensures steady progress through each grade, so that students get recognition for improvements in technique, discipline, focus, co-ordination and fitness, while making friends and gaining in confidence. There is great support between students of all ages, parents and instructors - it feels like a Karate family. Lessons are fun, friendly and varied, and, as well as traditional instruction, there are regular Karate themed parties and activities, such as flying kick competitions, Karate in the swimming pool, and Bully-Proof courses. There is a variety of classes to choose from, eg: family classes where parents can train in the same class as their kids; games-themed classes for 5-7 year olds; focused training for graded belts; and self-defence for adults. Regular seminars with other renowned Black Belt instructors ensures standards are extremely high, and close relations with national and international clubs mean that, for those SYTL students wishing to compete, there is a ready network for progression through the national tournaments framework towards the Olympics. Altogether an outstanding Club - highly recommended.

Do it do it do it!!

The SYTL team are amazing. So down to earth and welcoming, we are so glad to have found them