Superstar Madonna is following in her husband Guy Ritchie's footsteps, by taking up karate.

The British director is a black belt in the martial art and has encouraged his famous wife to join in during practice sessions.

A friend says, "Madonna has been taking her classes very seriously.

"Guy is into karate and Madonna's daughter LOURDES has taken classes.

"In the past, Madonna has worried about being bruised before videos or photoshoots but she hasn't got any planned at the moment."

08/02/2005 09:03