Natalie Payne 4th Dan – Kata Instructor

Natalie has been training in Shito Ryu Karate since 2005 and has held the rank of 4th Dan since 7th November 2021.

I first started training at the age of 8 at a local school hall, at Prestwich Ken Yu Kai under the guidance of Sensei Chris Baker. Sensei Chris encouraged me and instilled a great work ethic as well as a high level of Kihon. In 2011 I took the arduous decision, that for me to progress to the next level, I would need to move clubs and train with some of the best coaches at one of the most prestigious dojos in the country. This was a decision, even though a tough one and one that I do not regret as I’m currently on the England National Senior Kata Squad and I’ve won numerous English and British titles, in both kumite and kata. My major achievement was in 2013 where I became a Silver European medallist and hope to achieve more international medals soon.

I am currently a personal trainer level 5 and I work with the company pro-fit in Whitefeild, Total Fitness after getting a 2.1 degree in sports management and development. I am current English, British and British international champion 2018-2019 and 5th in Europe senior team.