The English Goju-Ryu Karate-Do Association (EGKA)
The EGKA is a non-profit making karate association dedicated to teaching the traditional Okinawan martial art of Goju-Ryu Karate in England.
Led by Chief Instructor Sensei Ernie Molyneux (IOGKF 7th Dan), our association promotes a very high standard of teaching of Goju Ryu Karate through our network of qualified and very experienced instructors. We also continue our long standing association with the International Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate-Do Federation (IOGKF) led by Shihan Morio Higaonna (10th Dan).
We have just opened our new and permanent Honbu Dojo (HQ) training facilty at the Sir David English Sports Centre, Bournemouth where we can run sessions from 7:00am to 10:00pm, seven days a week. Sensei Ernie is running a series of weekend master courses for specific grades over 2012. So keep clicking here for updates.
For our existing members, 2012 offers a full programme of intensive local and regional training events and competitions. We are already preparing for July´s World Budosai in Naha, Okinawa where we hope you will join the large contingent attending this year. The Events page will keep you up to date with what else is going on this year.
Choosing the right martial art is an important decision for the newcomer, and there are many to choose from. Some styles focus on competition fighting. Others have more in common with dance aerobics. Goju Ryu is a unarmed (karate literally means empty hand) fighting system that teaches strikes, throws, locks and ground grappling techniques. Although a Goju Ryu black belt certainly means the wearer can fight, the ability to be able to defend one´s self is too shallow a reason to explain why so many students devote years of training to win the right to wear that black strip of cloth. Many feel the true motivation is Goju Ryu teaches both mental and physical self-improvement through the pursuit of ‘perfect technique’. We all know perfection is unattainable, but the reward comes in the attempt.
If you, or your children, are considering taking up karate for the first time then we hope the following information will prove helpful. Goju Ryu karate teaches respect for others, and just as importantly self-respect. It is also an enjoyable way to promote physical fitness. Contact your nearest dojo for further information. Many of our dojos offer a free initial trial period so parents won´t face a costly outlay for a passing fad arising from the recent box-office success of the ‘Karate Kid’ film. We look forward to welcoming you in 2012.




