Welcome to the Japan Karate Association, the original heart of the largest Karate style in the world.
Shotokan Karate, and the JKA organisation in particular, reach nearly every nation on Earth.
As such, we have access to international-level instruction, grading examinations, and competition training, with training in Japan also an option.
Karate has rich cultural meaning, lifelong health and physical benefits, and wide-ranging sporting, self-defence, and holistic applications.
There are few other endeavours, in martial arts or otherwise, that endow people of all walks of life with the same level of maturity, self-discipline, and practice of striving to achieve and overcome the obstacles of life.
The Japan Karate Association is here to show you a path to character and physical development so that you can become the best you can be.
It is not quick. It is not easy. It is Karate-Do.
The Japan Karate Association (JKA) are the World’s foremost authority on traditional Japanese Shotokan style Karate-Do. With a vast membership in over 100 countries, the JKA is the world’s largest and most recognised Shotokan Karate organisation and the only one recognised by the Japanese government.
We belong to JKA Karate-Do Australia (JKA-KDA) which is an Australian branch of this international organisation, led by Shihan Jim Wood MBE 7th Dan JKA.
Shihan has a long and extensive career with the JKA spanning the last 55 years.
Based on his relationship with JKA HQ, we also have the opportunity to train with other high level Japanese instructors, when they are invited to visit Australia.
Attending international Gasshuku's (seminars and competitions) whether in Australia, Japan or elsewhere is also an option we can enjoy.
I began my Karate life in primary school in 1984, the year The Karate Kid hit the cinemas. Like most people growing up, school, work and social pressures saw me stop/restart my Karate training several times along my journey, with life's various distractions. I know many can relate.
After a workplace injury saw me suffering a collapsed disc, I spent the majority of 3 years on my back, despite spinal surgery and a slew of pharmaceutical intervention. But after I was finally healed, I needed rehab and I wanted to return and complete the journey that I loved.
For me, that meant finally achieving that Black Belt I had always dreamed of, but always seemed so far out of reach.
So, I got back into the Dojo, this time with my son by my side. But unlike other journey's, Karate is a way of life, so it has no final destination, only milestones along the way, so the journey continues.
Now I teach others the Way of the Empty Hand, and all that it means. Karate is a rich source of character development, that teaches you how to deal with life's ups and downs. I've had my share of life's obstacles, even more recent ones, so I can both relate to most people, and also show you a lifestyle that builds resilience and engages true grounding.
Let me introduce you to my encouraging friend; Karate-Do.
“The person who masters themselves has a far greater chance of mastering anything else in life, than someone who still lacks character, self discipline, a healthy relationship with authority and humility in the face of both victory AND defeat.” — Matthew Smith Sensei
No prior experience is required. Our classes are suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Our instructors provide personalised guidance to help you progress at your own pace.
For your first class, wear comfortable athletic clothing and bring a water bottle. Once you are a JKA member, only a JKA embroidered gi, with the exception of a clean white T-shirt underneath for females only.
You can sign up for a membership or schedule a class through our website's registration page. Alternatively, you can visit our centre in person or call us for assistance. Our staff will be happy to help you find the best option to start your journey.
0401 118 962
BodySmith Fitness,
43 Gulfview Road, Christies Beach South Australia 5165