Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Premier Karate Training Centre in Southampton
Sodokan Goju Karate Association is dedicated to the authentic practice and teaching of Nihon Goju Ryu Karate, rooted in the legacy of Master Kiyoshi Yonemoto. Established in 1975, our school celebrates 50 years of preserving the principles of Goju Ryu, blending the hard and soft techniques derived from Okinawan and Chinese martial arts. Our instructors, including Chief Instructor Mike Clark (6th Dan) and Senior Instructors Terry Foster, Kevin Williams, and Carl Regular, have trained directly at the Seibukan Dojo in Tokyo, ensuring the unbroken lineage of our teachings. We emphasize natural movement, the fluidity of water, and the strength of stone, fostering a disciplined yet adaptable approach to karate.Our curriculum caters to students aged 15 and above, with classes in Southampton focusing on physical fitness, self-defense (Kumite), and the philosophical foundations of Goju Ryu. The Sorinkan Dojo in West End offers weekly sessions, while advanced students train in a traditional garden dojo for personalized instruction. We welcome martial artists from other schools to join our community, promoting continuous growth and exploration of this ancient art form.
Services
Karate Classes
Martial Arts Training
Self-Defense Instruction
Senior Student Training
Community Karate Programs
Details
- Year established: 1975
Highlights and features
- We offer 50 years of authentic Goju Ryu Karate instruction rooted in Okinawan and Japanese traditions.
- Our instructors are direct students of Master Yonemoto, trained at the Seibukan Dojo in Tokyo.
- We emphasize both hard (Go) and soft (Ju) techniques for balanced martial arts development.
- Senior students train in a traditional garden dojo for personalized, intimate instruction.
- We welcome martial artists from all schools to explore and grow within our lineage.
Services
Karate Classes
Our karate classes teach authentic Nihon Goju Ryu techniques, blending hard and soft styles for all skill levels. Students learn traditional kata, Kumite (sparring), and self-defense applications. Classes emphasize physical fitness, mental discipline, and the philosophical principles of Goju Ryu.
Self-Defense Instruction
Self-defense programs focus on practical techniques derived from Goju Ryu principles. Training includes blocking, striking, and blending with an opponent's energy. Students develop situational awareness and confidence to handle real-world threats effectively.
Senior Student Training
Advanced students train in a traditional garden dojo for personalized instruction. Curriculum includes deeper exploration of kata, Kumite, and the philosophical teachings of Master Yonemoto. This program fosters mastery of both technical and spiritual aspects of Goju Ryu.
People
Terry Foster
Sensei
Terry Foster is a 3rd Dan instructor and founder of the Sorinkan Dojo in West End. With decades of experience, he combines karate with his background as a tree surgeon, drawing parallels between nature and martial arts. He emphasizes physical fitness and self-defense applications.
Mike Clark
Chief Instructor
Mike Clark (6th Dan) is the UK Chief Instructor and a direct student of Master Yonemoto. With over 50 years of martial arts experience, he has studied under Yonemoto Sensei for 30 years. He promotes a questioning mind and lifelong learning in Goju Ryu practice.
Questions
What karate style does Seibukan UK teach?
We teach Nihon Goju Ryu Karate, focusing on the authentic lineage of Master Kiyoshi Yonemoto.
Are beginners welcome to join?
Yes, our Southampton classes accept beginners aged 15 and above with no prior experience required.
What should I wear for the first lesson?
Wear loose clothing like a T-shirt and tracksuit bottoms for your first session.
Do you offer advanced training?
Advanced students train in our garden dojo for personalized instruction and deeper exploration of techniques.
