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Welcome to NoVa Goju Kai, Okinawan Goju Karate in Chantilly VA. We formally started giving classes in May of 2005. However, we've been training in the area since 2002. For those of you who know something about Goju Ryu, you probably know there are variations among the different schools. We strive to keep our kata consistent with the Jundokan in Naha Okinawa. |
Karate means "Empty Hand" in Japanese. That is to say, karate is an endeavor that doesn't use weapons. The traditional weapons of Japan and Okinawa are often taught in karate schools and are sometimes integrated into karate training, but the heart of karate is empty hand. |
Karate curriculums can vary greatly from school to school based on the instructor’s likes and dislikes. Our school favors more traditional movements that are well suited for self defense but may lack tournament appeal. |
Classes focus on technique rather than physical exertion. Most students only attend one class per week. This schedule is fine if you practice at home. Students who practice as little as ten minutes a day progress surprisingly fast. Students that take the class and don't practice may reach a moderate level of proficiency, but often, do not. Students are welcome to sign up for both classes, that is, twice a week, but it does cost more. |
We maintain consistency with the Jundokan through seminars and associated schools under the direction of Chuck Merriman Sensei. I try to attend two seminars a year and invite students to participate with me. Seminars are a great way to share information and become integrated into the larger Goju Ryu scene. |