Membership and fees

The academy currently has three senior instructors and an average membership of some fifty students. We traint at the Littledown Centre, Bournemouth, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings (excluding bank holidays).

As one might expect when the academy's principal also happens to be the EGKA's chief instructor, the standard of teaching is always of the highest standard, which is why so many students travel great distances to train at our dojo each week.

Few clubs in the UK can boast the high ratio of black belts to kyu grades that regularly train each week, and we all benefit from the mix and wealth of experience.

NEW MEMBERS

The dojo is always open to any individual interested in learning more about Goju Ryu karate. As well as improving your general level of fitness, taking up karate will introduce you into a circle of friends that can last a life time. Don't hesitate to telephone us now, or perhaps email us to arrange a visit where you can either join in or just watch so that you can experience a typical training session without any obligations.

How fit do you need to be before joining?

Karate is an exacting physical discipline that requires stamina, co-ordinated body movement and great strength. No one expects a beginner to have any of these attributes when they first walk into the dojo. Lessons are designed to gradually build physical fitness and allow the student to enjoy the whole experience of learning each new karate technique. You will be surprised at how even just a few month of training can make all the difference to your sense of well being.

Am I too old?

We find that most new students tend to be in their late teens or twenties. The fact that you are in your middle years should not act as a deterrent to joining, providing you are reasonable fit and of sound body. We currently have students in their fifties. So it is the spirit, not the age, that really matters.

Juniors below the age of 14 will be referred to one of our associated dojos that are better placed to teach children. 

How do I join?

Just come along to the Monday or Wednesday session that starts at 6:30pm and ask for Sensei Ernie. You will find us in the rear studio just to the left of the reception area of the main entrance to the Littledown Centre. You will be invited to sit at the rear of the dojo and just watch the seniors' class to get an idea of what Goju Ryu karate is all about. At 8:00pm you will be welcome to join the beginners' session that will last about an hour.  If you wish to join in the actual lesson, you will need to wear loose clothing such as a pair of tracksuit bottoms and a t-shirt. Please note you should never wear shoes in the dojo. There is no charge for the lessons in the first two weeks.