Naomi Karpati - Female Action Performer of the Year 2012

Naomi Karpati

Naomi  Karpati currently works at Sanctuary Cove Golf Club as a fitness expert and trains at Wise Force Chinese Boxing. She has recently established herself as a martial arts action star in Agent Provocateur/Elite; where she won Best Female Action Performer of the year at the Action on Film Festival  -2012 in Los Angeles.

What is the difference between Chinese boxing, boxing and kickboxing?

Chinese boxing is an umbrella term that refers to martial arts created in China. It teaches defensive skills like blocking, parries, grappling, footwork, joint locks and advanced training includes multiple attackers and weapons.

Can you tell us about your background in Chinese boxing?

I've started training at Wise Force Chinese Boxing when I came over to Australia in 2009 being the only girl at the start. Started with learning basic principles and landed thousands of punches and kicks before I could move to more advanced techniques and gained an understanding of other philosophies. 

Is there a different mentality in Europe towards martial arts than in Australia?

Definitely, just like there is a cultural difference. In Hungary, where I came from martial arts are not as popular as for example team sports are. In martial arts it is more karate, boxing and kickboxing that are popular rather than muay thai which is the most sought after discipline in Australia.

Was it always your desire to be an actor? What made you decide to act? 

I never had desires to become an actor. I sort of fell into it through martial arts and stunt training. My character motivated a script and it all started from there.

How did you get selected to play Alex in Agent Provocateur? 

My trainer James Richards at Wise Force Chinese boxing who is also a film maker had an inspiration for a character that he wanted me to portray so my skill set can be displayed on the big screen. 

Why do you feel Agent Provocateur stood out above all the other action films that year?

Because it had an interesting story line, a sense of reality attached to it and good action sequences in it. 

What is your normal training routine for a week?

Training 2 hours 4 times a week at Wise Force practicing combat skills and handling weapons. Cardio training including running, high intensity interval training 3 times a week. 

How much and what kind of training do you do with handguns?

In the preparation process of the film we started going into a bit deeper and I was taught how to move with the gun properly and how to aim at multiple targets. 

What projects are you working on that we can look forward to in the future?

Hopefully we will some more action and different skill sets brought on screen including some of my favorite knives. 

Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?

Learn and work hard in your art, whatever that may be, believe in yourself and keep moving forward. 

Find out more about Naomi at www.naomikarpati.com.