Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate Namibia
Member of the Traditional Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate Federation
About Us
The History of Goju-Ryu
Historical Roots in Foo Chow Province, China
Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate traces its origins back to the Foo Chow province in China. This region was known for its rich martial arts heritage, where Master Ryu Ryuku, a prominent figure, taught advanced fighting skills. These techniques and principles formed the foundation for what would eventually become Goju-Ryu Karate. Master Ryu Ryuku’s teachings emphasized the importance of balance, both in physical movements and in the philosophical approach to martial arts.
Introduction to Okinawa by Kanryu Higaonna Sensei
The journey of Goju-Ryu Karate to Okinawa began with Kanryu Higaonna Sensei, an influential Okinawan martial artist. Higaonna Sensei traveled to China to study under Master Ryu Ryuku and other martial arts masters. After years of rigorous training, he returned to Okinawa, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge and new techniques. His dedication to mastering and teaching these skills laid the groundwork for the development of Goju-Ryu Karate in Okinawa. Higaonna Sensei’s methods were characterized by their practicality, efficiency, and a deep understanding of the body’s mechanics.
Development and Refinement by Chojun Miyagi
One of Kanryu Higaonna’s foremost students, the legendary Chojun Miyagi, played a pivotal role in the evolution of Goju-Ryu Karate. Chojun Miyagi was deeply influenced by Master Higaonna’s teachings but sought to further refine and adapt them. Through diligent practice and innovation, Miyagi developed a unique style that he named Goju-Ryu, which translates to “hard-soft style.” This name reflects the dual nature of the techniques, combining hard, linear strikes with soft, circular movements. Miyagi’s vision was to create a martial art that was not only effective in combat but also promoted physical health and mental well-being.
The Traditional Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate Federation (TOGKF) Logo
Chojun Miyagi Sensei, founder of Goju-Ryu Karate.
Key Characteristics of Goju-Ryu Karate
Combination of Hard and Soft Techniques
Goju-Ryu Karate is renowned for its blend of hard and soft techniques. Practitioners learn to execute powerful, direct strikes and blocks (representing the “Go” or hard aspect) alongside flowing, circular movements and evasions (representing the “Ju” or soft aspect). This balance allows for versatility in combat, adapting to various situations and opponents.
Focus on Breathing and Inner Strength
A distinctive feature of Goju-Ryu Karate is its emphasis on breathing techniques. These exercises are designed to enhance inner strength, focus, and control. Proper breathing is integral to the execution of techniques, providing stability and power. This focus on breath control also promotes relaxation and stress reduction, contributing to overall well-being.
Practical Self-Defense
Goju-Ryu Karate is rooted in practicality, with techniques designed for real-world self-defense scenarios. Practitioners train to respond effectively to attacks, using both offensive and defensive maneuvers. The style incorporates strikes, kicks, joint locks, and throws, making it a comprehensive system for self-protection.
Okinawa Goju-Ryu Karate Namibia (OGKN)
A Legacy of Tradition and Excellence
Okinawa Goju-Ryu Karate Namibia (OGKN) began in 1979. Shihan Hennie De Vries founded the organization, bringing his passion and dedication to martial arts to Namibia. His leadership established OGKN as a respected martial arts institution.
In January 1999, Sensei Carl van der Merwe took over as Chief Instructor of OGKN. His commitment to excellence led the organization through significant transitions. In 2003, OGKN reaffiliated with the International Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate-do Federation (IOGKF). This move was pivotal for the organization’s growth and alignment with global standards.
Upon reaffiliating with IOGKF, Sensei Carl van der Merwe started training directly under Sensei Bakkies Laubscher, who holds a 9th Dan. Sensei Laubscher’s mentorship has been invaluable, providing guidance and expertise. This direct training relationship has strengthened OGKN’s technical proficiency and adherence to traditional practices.
As of 2023, OGKN reaffiliated with the Traditional Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate Federation (TOGKF). Led by Goju-Ryu Grand Master Morio Higaonna Sensei, the TOGKF is dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional Okinawa Goju-Ryu. This reaffiliation aligns OGKN with the guardian of traditional practices as passed down to Higaonna Sensei.
The TOGKF acts as a vehicle for Goju-Ryu practitioners to spread Higaonna Morio Sensei’s vision of Okinawa Goju-Ryu Karate-do around the world. OGKN, as part of this federation, is committed to upholding these values and techniques. The organization continues to thrive under this guidance, contributing to the global Goju-Ryu community.
Our Lineage
Sensei Morio Higaonna
10th Dan
World Chief Instructor – TOGKF
Sensei Bakkies Laubscher
9th Dan
Vice Chief Instructor – TOGKF
Sensei Carl van der Merwe
7th Dan
Chief Instructor – OGKN
Dojos and Training Schedule
Honbu Dojo
Unit 43 Hyper Motor City, Maxwell St, Southern Industrial, Windhoek
Tel/Whatsapp: +264 81 124 2879
admin@goju-ryu-karate-namibia.com
Mondays & Wednesdays
Intermediate (Adults and Teens) Class:
18:00–19:00
Senior Class:
19:00–20:30
Tuesdays & Thursdays
Beginner Children:
18:00–18:45
Advanced Children:
18:45 – 19:45
Shinto Dojo
Dr Marcus Garvey Street, Ludwigsdorf, Windhoek.
Tel: +264 85 555 3616
shintodojowindhoek@gmail.com
Mondays & Wednesdays
Beginner Children:
17:30–18:15
Tuesdays & Thursdays
Children Intermediate:
15:00-16:00
Children Advanced (Orange Belt+):
17:00-18:00
Adults:
18:00 – 19:00
Adult Advanced (Green+):
18:00-19:30
