Arkel

Arkel as a martial arts destination

Martial arts in Arkel are centered at Barbells & Punches on Vlietskade. The school combines striking and kicking techniques with grappling and strength training, an approach suited to the modern, versatile martial artist.

For a village of this size, the range of options is notably broad: both stand-up disciplines and ground fighting are represented.

Martial arts in the Alblasserwaard

Arkel is located approximately three kilometres north of Gorinchem, in the rural Alblasserwaard. Athletes from Arkel and surrounding villages can practise martial arts close to home, without having to travel to the city.

The municipality of Molenlanden also mentions martial arts in Arkel in its sports overview, underscoring the sport's place in village life.

Martial Arts History

Organized martial arts in Arkel are relatively new. Barbells & Punches has been active since 2018 and brought several disciplines to the village that were previously found only in the surrounding cities.

Combat-sports landscape

The range includes boxing, kickboxing, karate and Brazilian jiu-jitsu and grappling, complemented by fitness and conditioning training.

For competition-focused clubs and a broader range, Gorinchem and the other towns in the region are a short distance away.