Doryokuryu Karate is a prestigious Karate club located in Truro, New Zealand. With a rich history dating back to 2008, the club has been dedicated to teaching and training Karate in the South West of England. The club's main focus is to provide students with a high-quality martial art experience that encompasses the origins and intentions of Karate.
As a traditional club, Doryokuryu Karate places a strong emphasis on self-protection and fitness through training. The classes are taught within the etiquette and traditions of Karate, creating a positive learning environment for all students. The club believes that “within Karate is the potential of a new person with huge capabilities,” and with this belief, they welcome students of all ages, ranging from 5 to 70 years old.
Doryokuryu Karate offers a variety of classes to cater to different needs. Junior Classes are available for young students, Open Classes are open to all, and Adult Classes are designed specifically for adults. Regardless of current fitness level, previous experience, gender, or background, the club believes there is something within Karate for everyone.
Traditional Okinawan Karate is at the heart of Doryokuryu Karate's teachings. This ancient martial art, which translates to “Empty hand,” focuses primarily on self-protection techniques. Students are taught various techniques, including punches, kicks, blocks, locks, and grappling. However, the club also highlights that the best self-protection comes from avoiding trouble and physical confrontation altogether.
Apart from self-protection, Karate offers numerous benefits beyond physical techniques. The training enhances flexibility, mobility, and serves as an effective calorie-burning activity. Active participation in Karate classes contributes to improved confidence, as students set goals, meet new people, and train in a positive environment. Learning patterns and combinations of techniques in Karate enhances coordination, reactions, and reflexes.
Additionally, the disciplined learning environment fosters courtesy, self-control, and adherence to etiquette and traditions.
Doryokuryu Karate also provides training in modern Sports Karate, which is the competitive form seen at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. Students have the opportunity to train in Kumite (Sparring) and Kata (performance) to compete in in-house tournaments or at national and international events. Through its association with Xcalibur, an EKF member, the club participates in prestigious WKF Competitions, offering a pathway to excellence and the chance to represent the nation on the international stage.
Kobudo, the Okinawan/Japanese Martial Art of weapons training, is another aspect of training offered at Doryokuryu Karate. Students are trained in traditional Okinawan Ryukyu Kobudo and learn a variety of weapons such as Bo, Nunchaku, Sai, Tekko, Tonfa, Rochin Tinbe, and Gama. While not necessarily applicable in the modern world, Kobudo enhances coordination and serves as a fascinating and enjoyable activity that complements Karate training.
Doryokuryu Karate welcomes individuals of all ages and backgrounds to start training and experience the transformative power of Traditional Okinawan Karate. By joining the club, students unlock a world of self-improvement, personal growth, and the opportunity to engage in a unique and intriguing pursuit that carries a rich history and tradition. To find out more about Doryokuryu Karate, visit their website or contact them directly.