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Eastleigh Goju Ryu Karate Do is a small and friendly dojo located in Eastleigh, New Zealand. Led by Sensei Jason Roe, a 5th Dan black belt, the club is dedicated to teaching traditional Okinawan Goju Ryu karate to the next generation. Sensei Jason incorporates various training techniques such as warm-ups, kata (forms), sparring, and pad work to improve physical strength, stamina, and self-defence skills.
The club follows the philosophy of “Ichariba-chode,” an Okinawan proverb that translates to “once we meet we are family. ” This ethos permeates throughout the dojo, fostering a close-knit community where members create lasting friendships. Although training sessions may only take place a few times a week, the bonds created extend beyond the dojo doors.
Eastleigh Goju Ryu Karate Do proudly maintains affiliations with two esteemed organisations: the English Goju Ryu Karate-Do Association (EGKA) and the International Goju Ryu Karate Federation (IOGKF). These affiliations offer members opportunities to train with world-renowned instructors through national and international events. The club's website features a photo gallery showcasing the places they have visited during their training journey.
Centrally located in Eastleigh, the club offers convenient accessibility from Southampton and Winchester via road or rail. With a focus on traditional Okinawan Goju Ryu karate, Eastleigh Goju Ryu Karate Do provides a welcoming and nurturing environment for individuals seeking to learn and grow in the martial arts.
Goju Ryu, meaning “hard-soft style” in Japanese, is one of the main traditional Okinawan styles of karate taught at the club. Derived from the famous martial arts book Bubishi, Goju Ryu combines both hard and soft techniques. “Go,” representing the hard aspect, emphasises closed hand techniques and straight linear attacks. “Ju,” representing the soft aspect, involves open hand techniques and circular movements.
Goju Ryu incorporates a range of techniques, combining powerful striking attacks such as kicks and punches with circular movements used for attacking, blocking, and controlling opponents. This includes techniques like locks, grappling, take-downs, and throws. The two core katas of Goju Ryu, Sanchin and Tensho, embody the dichotomy of hard and soft techniques.
Goju Ryu stands out for its retention of traditional training methods such as Hojo Undo, which utilises weights and traditional implements to enhance strength and agility. Kakie, a pushing hands technique, is also practised to develop the ability to anticipate and react to an opponent's intentions through continuous contact.
The International Okinawan Goju Ryu Karate-do Federation (IOGKF) is the world's largest traditional Okinawan Karate organisation. Eastleigh Goju Ryu Karate Do proudly maintains affiliation with IOGKF, led by World Chief Instructor Sensei Tetsuji Nakamura. IOGKF International is dedicated to preserving the intangible cultural treasure of Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate-do, passing it down from one generation to the next.
The English Goju Ryu Karate-Do Association (EGKA) was established in 1973 under the guidance of Sensei James Rousseau. EGKA has since expanded across England and currently boasts over 1,500 active members training in more than 30 dojos. The association's lineup includes highly experienced senior instructors up to 8th, 7th, and 6th Dan ranks, rivalling even those in Japan. Sensei Ernie, a prominent figure in the world of Goju Ryu karate, serves as the current EGKA Chief Instructor.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced martial artist, Eastleigh Goju Ryu Karate Do welcomes individuals of all skill levels. Join the club to embark on a journey of self-improvement, where you can learn authentic Okinawan Goju Ryu karate and become part of a supportive and inclusive karate family.
