Ambler GKK Goju-Ryu Karate-do Kyokai

​About the Ambler GKK Karate Club
The Ambler Goju-Ryu karate club came into being as an independent dojo in 1982 through the efforts of former Sensei James Hagan. Classes were, and still are, held at the facilities of the Ambler, PA branch of the YMCA.



In 1994 the Ambler dojo became affiliated with the Goju-Ryu Karate-do Kyokai (the GKK) through the efforts of current Sensei Bill Kane.

Current members of the Ambler YMCA are welcome to enroll for classes at the Ambler dojo. We realize that Karate is not for everyone and that you may decide, after trying it out, that you do not wish to continue. For this reason, enrollment is offered in 8-week sessions. No long-term financial commitment is required. More details about YMCA can be found here https://www.philaymca.org/locations/ambler-ymca.



Classes are currently held three times a week at the following times:

(Adults and kids welcome):

Wednesday 6:45 – 8:30 PM

Saturday 9:15 – 10:30 AM 

Advanced class : Saturday 10:30 – 11:30 AM (Black, Brown and Green Belts only)



We see ourselves as a traditional dojo. By that, we mean that we emphasize effort, respect, courtesy, and discipline. We do not teach students karate; we enable those with a desire to learn karate to do so. We also require students to learn the Japanese names for the various karate techniques. Advancement is at each student’s own pace, and instruction is available at all learner levels from novice through advanced.

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About the GKK

The GKK is an international organization dedicated to the preservation and propagation of traditional Goju-Ryu Karate. The GKK is headed by Mr. M. Yamakura, ninth Dan. Master Yamakura was a student of Master Seigo Tada who was one of the two senior students of Master Chojun Miyagi, who codified Goju-Ryu. The GKK maintains its own web site at www.goju.com. This excellent site contains information about the GKK organization as well as a history of the martial arts in general, and of Goju-Ryu Karate in particular. Check it out.

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About Goju-Ryu

The term Goju-Ryu literally means “Hard Soft Style”. As the name implies, some of the techniques are strong (hard) and some are flowing (soft). The ‘hard’ techniques are usually linear, or straight-line, punches, kicks, and blocks. These are similar to techniques found in other Japanese and Korean martial arts such as Shotokan Karate and Tae Kwon Do. The ‘soft’ techniques are generally circular in motion and resemble those found in Chinese Kung Fu and other styles. This marriage of hard and soft techniques makes for an extremely effective, well-balanced, close-in fighting style.