Bournemouth Karate Academy

Bournemouth Karate Academy invites all interested players to join them for an exciting Mixed Martial Arts event. Known as the UK home of Goju Ryu Karate, this traditional style of karate offers a unique blend of history and modernity.

Taking up Goju Ryu karate is not only a physically challenging endeavour but also an immensely enjoyable pastime. It improves physical fitness, stamina, and agility, making it a great choice for those looking to enhance their overall well-being. As a highly respected unarmed fighting system, Goju Ryu karate teaches a range of techniques including strikes, blocks, locks, throws, and grappling techniques.

Bournemouth Karate Academy is proud to have its students consistently performing well in open international competitions against other styles. This serves as a testament to the effectiveness and skill taught at the academy. In fact, the academy's instructors have also had the privilege of teaching special services personnel all over Europe, further highlighting their expertise in the field.

Aside from the focus on training, the Bournemouth Karate Academy prides itself on being a part of a large friendly community of like-minded karate students. Regularly coming together for regional and national training sessions and competitions, the academy offers a supportive environment for all.

Under the guidance of Sensei Ernie Molyneux, one of the best instructors globally, students at the Bournemouth Karate Academy are provided with high standards of instruction. Sensei Ernie's expertise and experience make him an invaluable resource for those looking to learn and grow in the art of Goju Ryu karate. Prospective students need not be intimidated by training under him as they can try one of the academy's free trial lessons. Learning a new skill becomes easier with a master like Sensei Ernie to guide and inspire.

Goju Ryu Karate finds its roots in Okinawa, Japan, where it originated as a martial art. The name 'karate' itself is credited as originating from the Japanese island of Okinawa in the early 20th century. Combining the Japanese Kanji characters 'Kara' meaning 'Empty' and 'Te' meaning 'Hands,' karate symbolises the art of unarmed combat.

Goju Ryu karate was founded in 1933 by Chojun Miyagi. This traditional form of karate can be traced back to the regional style of Naha-te, which was taught by Kanryo Higaonna in the Naha district of Okinawa during the latter half of the 19th century. The teaching methods of Naha-te can be further traced back to the ancient style of martial arts taught by the Shaolin Monks of China. The name 'Goju Ryu' itself refers to the incorporation of both hard and soft techniques, defining the style and distinguishing it from others.

Today, Goju Ryu karate has gained popularity worldwide and is taught in over 50 countries. In England, the EGKA is a non-profit-making association affiliated with the IOGKF of Japan. Sensei Ernie serves as the Chief Instructor of the EGKA and sits on the IOGKF Executive Technical Committee as an international Vice-Chief Instructor.

In a time where many martial arts have lost their authenticity, Goju Ryu karate remains true to its roots. It continues to be an effective self-defence system, imparting valuable skills and confidence in its practitioners. While instant gratification may be popular today, investing time and effort in Goju Ryu karate provides truly invaluable rewards.