Squad training sessions hit different when you know what is coming. The JKS World Championships in Brazil are getting closer and closer and I can feel the intensity rising every single week. These photos are from a squad session last week and honestly it was tough.

When I put on my England gi and step into that training hall everything changes. The focus has to be sharper. The reactions have to be faster. Every single rep matters because this is the biggest competition I have ever been part of.

Pushing Through the Pressure

There are moments during squad sessions where my legs are screaming at me to stop. My lungs are burning. My brain is trying to keep up with everything the coaches are throwing at us. But that is exactly why we train like this. Because when I step onto that mat in Brazil I need my body to know what to do without thinking.

The second photo shows me between rounds. Just trying to breathe and reset. Those little moments are when you have to stay mentally strong. It would be easy to let your head drop and feel sorry for yourself but you cannot do that. Not if you want to be ready.

Why This Matters So Much

I have been doing karate since I was little. I have competed at national level and represented England internationally. But this feels like the next step. The World Championships in Brazil is the kind of opportunity you dream about and I am not going to waste it by turning up unprepared.

Every early morning drive my dad does. Every session that leaves me exhausted. Every sacrifice my family makes. It all comes down to moments like these. Building the fitness and the sharpness I need.

I am so grateful to Motion Mender for helping me recover properly after sessions like this. My body takes a proper beating and their support makes such a difference.

If you want to support my journey to Brazil and help a young karateka from Abingdon chase his dream then please check out my GoFundMe at gofundme.com/f/support-young-karateka-jakob-de-brum. Every single donation means the world to me and my family.

Follow my journey on TikTok at tiktok.com/@jakob.de.brum and subscribe to my YouTube at youtube.com/@victorfredericodebrum2365/shorts. I would love for you to be part of this.