About

Origins

Karate is a global phenomenon. Drawing on ancient fighting traditions in China and Okinawa, it is practised all around the world. Our style of Karate-do is based on the Goju Ryu (hard and soft) style developed by Chojun Miyagi in Okinawa. It was introduced to Japan and the rest of the world by our first Grand Master, Gogen Yamaguchi.

The key features of Goju Kai practice are:

Focus on Breathing: Deep and controlled breathing techniques, especially in the Sanchin and Tensho kata.
Circular Movements: Using circular movements to redirect the opponent’s force and perform effective counterattacks.
Comprehensive Training: Combination of hard and soft techniques, development of strength and flexibility, and emphasis on stability and balance.

Our Karate-do is practiced by men, women and children. It is suitable for all ages and abilities. We foster a welcoming environment where cooperation, self-discovery and effort are highly prized. Within this atmosphere students are encouraged to explore their full potential.

IKGA

The International Karate-do Goju Kai Association was established by Kaiso Gōgen Yamaguchi, a Japanese martial artist appointed to spread the art of Karate-do by Gōjū-ryū founder Chōjun Miyagi. He was one of the most well-known karate-dō masters from Japan. Gōgen Yamaguchi’s contributions to Gōjū-ryū karate-dō and to karate-dō in general have been enormous. Under his leadership and guidance the I.K.G.A has developed and thrived. The organization has increased in popularity both in Japan and other Asian and Western countries throughout the world.

Now headed by his son Goshi Yamaguchi Saiko Shihan, IKGA is established in over 70 countries making it one of the largest and foremost karate organizations in the world. There are multiple IKGA branches throughout Australia run by instructors who have trained with Japan’s top masters both in Japan and here in Australia.

Brian Mackie 8th Dan Hanshi is the Director of I.K.G.A. for Australia and Oceania. Brian is privileged to have been instructed by world renowned Japanese masters and along with Paul Starling Hanshi, is one of the few Western Karate-ka to have been personally graded to Hanshi ranking in the International Karate-Do Goju-Kai Association.

What makes us different

Goju Kai Karate is a style of karate that has its roots in traditional Okinawan martial arts, particularly Goju-ryu. What sets Goju Kai apart from other styles of karate is its emphasis on both hard and soft techniques.

Goju Kai Karate retains the core principles of Goju-ryu, which include combining hard striking techniques (go) with soft circular movements (ju). This balance of hardness and softness allows practitioners to adapt to various combat situations.

Goju Kai Karate is known for its comprehensive approach to martial arts training, incorporating physical techniques, mental discipline, and philosophical principles into its practice.

“Great traditional karate and knowledgeable instructors.”

— Ben, Roseville