Difference from other Styles:

One of the outstanding characteristics of Goju-Ryu is its use of circular movement, which does not occur in other styles. For example, in Goju-Ryu when an opponent starts an attack, a circular movement can be used to forestall the attack by depriving the opponent of his power.

Karate for Self-Defence:

Karate is one of the most dynamic of all the martial arts. The trained karate-ka is able to co-ordinate his mind and body perfectly, thereby enabling him to unleash tremendous physical power at will. It is not the possession of great strength that makes a good karate-ka, rather the ability to co-ordinate body and mind. With this ability, even a small person finds that he/she has the power to deliver a devastating blow to any attacker.

The Value of Karate:

Modern city life deprives you of the exercise necessary for fitness and mental health. Karate tones the body, develops co-ordination, quickens reflexes and builds stamina without the danger of harmful injuries.
The practice of karate develops composure, a clearer thought process, deeper insight into your mental capabilities and more self-confidence.

The training is divided into three categories:

Kihon (basic blocks, punches, kicks and stances)

Kata (pre-arranged forms simulating combat situations)

Kumite (sparring)

In each category the individual is given instruction at the most basic level until the techniques become spontaneous.As the student advances technically, he progresses physically and develops greater stamina. At the same time he learns increasingly intricate Kata and more dynamic forms of kumite.

As the student approaches black belt level, technique, stamina, speed and co-ordination become natural as a result of intensive practice. It is at this stage that the serious student discovers the wonderful world that karate has opened to him. The object of true karate practice is the perfection of oneself through the perfection of the art.