About Yushukan Karate, Martial Arts in the Gold Coast & Perth
About Yushukan Karate
Traditional Goju Karate in in the Gold Coast & Perth
At Yushukan Karate, we teach traditional Goju Ryu Karate across the Gold Coast and Perth, including suburbs like Tweed Heads, Byron Bay, Kingscliff, and Joondalup. Our mission is to provide a disciplined, supportive environment where students of all ages build strength, confidence, and self-defence skills through authentic karate training.
We believe martial arts is a lifelong journey, one that develops the mind, body, and spirit through the structured practice of karate katas, physical fitness, and mental clarity.
About
Yushukan Karate
Traditional Goju Karate in in the Gold Coast & Perth
At Yushukan Karate, we teach traditional Goju Ryu Karate across the Gold Coast and Perth, including suburbs like Tweed Heads, Byron Bay, Kingscliff, and Joondalup. Our mission is to provide a disciplined, supportive environment where students of all ages build strength, confidence, and self-defence skills through authentic karate training.
We believe martial arts is a lifelong journey, one that develops the mind, body, and spirit through the structured practice of karate katas, physical fitness, and mental clarity.
From Self-Defence to Dojo Leadership
Sam Seigers Sensei
Sensei Sam Seigers founded Yushukan Karate in 2020, following over two decades of dedication to the martial arts. His journey began after a serious, unprovoked assault as a teenager, a pivotal moment that inspired a lifelong pursuit of self-defence and personal growth.
Sam has trained across Australia, Japan, and the USA, continuously developing under senior instructors from the Seiwakai branch of Goju Ryu Karate. Today, he continues that lineage with deep respect, alongside fellow instructors Sensei Doug Silversten and Senpai Luke Karmen.
Together, they are committed to helping students,from young children to adults, reach their full potential through the disciplined, enriching practice of karate.
From Self-Defence to Dojo Leadership
Sam Seigers Sensei
Sensei Sam Seigers founded Yushukan Karate in 2020, following over two decades of dedication to the martial arts. His journey began after a serious, unprovoked assault as a teenager, a pivotal moment that inspired a lifelong pursuit of self-defence and personal growth.
Sam has trained across Australia, Japan, and the USA, continuously developing under senior instructors from the Seiwakai branch of Goju Ryu Karate. Today, he continues that lineage with deep respect, alongside fellow instructors Sensei Doug Silversten and Senpai Luke Karmen.
Together, they are committed to helping students,from young children to adults, reach their full potential through the disciplined, enriching practice of karate.
A School of Excellence in Martial Arts
The Yushukan Karate Story
Yushukan is a Japanese word meaning “School of Excellence”, and that’s exactly what we strive to be at Yushukan Karate. Our name and logo embody the pursuit of martial arts mastery, representing a lifelong journey of development in Goju Ryu Karate.
At the centre of our logo is the kanji character for "excellence", symbolising our core value. Behind it are five interconnected circles, each representing one of the five key elements of Yushukan training. These elements are the foundation of our philosophy, guiding students in their journey through karate across our dojos in Tweed Heads, Byron Bay, and Perth.
The path to mastery, moving from following to breaking and transcending form.
The pursuit of continuous improvement
Mind
Strengthening mental focus, resilience, and character
Body
Developing a strong, capable body for self-protection
Spirit
Cultivating discipline, perseverance, and a never‑give‑up attitude
The final three elements (Mind, Body, and Spirit) are known in Japanese as Kokoro, representing the deep connection between mental, physical, and spiritual strength.
The Yushukan Karate logo was created in Japan by Mr. Yoshida, a family friend of founder Sam Seigers Sensei. Designed with cultural pride, the logo symbolises the fusion of tradition, purpose, and identity. We are honoured to carry that symbolism across our dojos in Australia, from the Gold Coast to Perth.
Founded by Sensei Sam Seigers, Yushukan Applied Karate is grounded in the powerful, practical techniques of Goju Ryu Karate, an Okinawan/Japanese martial art known for its strong stances, close-range strikes, and emphasis on karate katas applied to real-world self-defence. With over 20 years of training and teaching experience across Australia, Japan, and the USA, Sensei Sam continues a direct lineage from Goju Ryu founder Chojun Miyagi Sensei. Yushukan Karate is proudly affiliated with Gojuryu Seiwakai Karate Do Australia and the All Japan Karate Federation Gojukai.
Yushukan Karate focuses on applied karate katas, understanding the meaning behind each movement and translating that into practical self-defence. Our students don’t just memorise forms, they develop the skills to protect themselves with confidence and purpose.
Whether you’re new to karate or experienced in martial arts, our philosophy and structure support long-term progress and personal growth.
The Key Difference: Control vs Contact
Why Karate Is a Safer Martial Art Compared to Jiu-Jitsu
When choosing martial arts for yourself or your loved ones, safety is often a top concern. While both Karate and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) are excellent disciplines that teach self-defence, discipline and physical fitness, Karate stands out as a safer choice, particularly for beginners or those concerned about injury risk.
One key difference lies in the nature of the techniques. BJJ focuses heavily on ground grappling and submissions, such as joint locks and chokes, where the goal is to incapacitate an opponent. These techniques inherently carry a higher risk of injury, especially for beginners or when practiced with an unskilled partner. Accidental overextension during joint locks or poorly applied chokes can result in serious injuries, making safety highly dependent on your training partner's experience and control.
In contrast, Karate emphasises controlled strikes, blocks and katas (pre-arranged forms) that allow practitioners to develop their skills without putting their bodies at significant risk. Karate's emphasis on precision, timing and technique rather than brute force creates a safer learning environment. Practitioners can train solo to perfect their movements, minimising the risk of injury from an unskilled partner.
Moreover, Karate's dynamic, upright movements teach situational awareness and self-defence in real-world scenarios without the need to engage in prolonged ground combat. This makes Karate not only safer but also highly practical for defending oneself in everyday situations.
At Yushukan Karate, we prioritise safety while fostering confidence, discipline and resilience. Join us to experience the benefits of Karate in a controlled and welcoming environment!
About Yushukan Karate
Why Karate Is a Safer Martial Art Compared to Jiu-Jitsu
When choosing martial arts for yourself or your loved ones, safety is often a top concern. While both Karate and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) are excellent disciplines that teach self-defence, discipline and physical fitness, Karate stands out as a safer choice, particularly for beginners or those concerned about injury risk.
One key difference lies in the nature of the techniques. BJJ focuses heavily on ground grappling and submissions, such as joint locks and chokes, where the goal is to incapacitate an opponent. These techniques inherently carry a higher risk of injury, especially for beginners or when practiced with an unskilled partner. Accidental overextension during joint locks or poorly applied chokes can result in serious injuries, making safety highly dependent on your training partner's experience and control.
In contrast, Karate emphasises controlled strikes, blocks and katas (pre-arranged forms) that allow practitioners to develop their skills without putting their bodies at significant risk. Karate's emphasis on precision, timing and technique rather than brute force creates a safer learning environment. Practitioners can train solo to perfect their movements, minimising the risk of injury from an unskilled partner.
Moreover, Karate's dynamic, upright movements teach situational awareness and self-defence in real-world scenarios without the need to engage in prolonged ground combat. This makes Karate not only safer but also highly practical for defending oneself in everyday situations.
At Yushukan Karate, we prioritise safety while fostering confidence, discipline and resilience. Join us to experience the benefits of Karate in a controlled and welcoming environment!
Start Your Journey With Yushukan Karate!
Choosing the right martial arts school is about more than location—it’s about finding a dojo that values your personal growth. At Yushukan Karate, we help students across the Gold Coast and Perth reach their full potential through the time-honoured discipline of Goju Ryu Karate.
Here’s why students from Tweed Heads, Byron Bay, Kingscliff, Joondalup, and beyond choose to train with us:
Experienced and passionate instructors: Our instructors bring years of experience and a deep commitment to teaching students of all ages.
Inclusive environment: We welcome everyone, whether you’re a complete beginner or have experience in martial arts training. Our karate dojo is a place where everyone can learn, grow and feel supported.
Convenient locations: With karate dojos in both Tweed Heads and Perth, we’re easy to reach if you’re looking for karate classes near you.
Flexible schedules: We offer classes at various times throughout the week, ensuring that you can find a session that fits into your busy schedule.
Begin your martial arts journey today. Develop strength, focus, and confidence with authentic Goju Ryu Karate, right here in your community.
Watch Our Videos
Whether you're searching for “martial arts classes near me” or are eager to enroll your child in kids karate, we invite you to experience Yushukan Karate firsthand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect from my first class?
Your first class will introduce you to basic karate movements and techniques. Wear comfortable workout clothes, and we’ll guide you through everything from there.
How often should I attend classes?
Consistency is key. We recommend attending classes at least twice a week to see steady improvement in your skills and fitness.
What should I wear to my first class?
For your first class, wear comfortable athletic clothing and bring a water bottle. If you're joining a martial arts class, we recommend wearing a clean, comfortable gi or workout attire. Protective gear will be provided for your safety.
Is karate safe for young children?
Yes, karate is very safe when taught in a controlled and supportive environment. Our instructors are experienced in working with young children and focus on teaching proper techniques to prevent injuries.
Do I need to be in shape to start karate?
Not at all! Our beginner's martial arts for adults are suitable for everyone, regardless of fitness level. Karate will help you improve your physical condition at a pace that’s comfortable for you.
How long does it take to get a black belt?
Progression depends on your dedication and frequency of practice. On average, it takes several years to reach a black belt, but the journey is what truly matters.
Articles
Why Self-Defence and Anti-Bullying Strategies Matter More Than Ever
Bullying in Australia is rising. Yushukan Karate teaches self-defence, confidence, and resilience to help children face bullying with strength and respect. ...more
Karate
September 28, 2025•1 min read
The Value of Continued Training with Experienced Masters
At Yushukan Karate, our Sensei continues training with masters in Japan and Okinawa to share authentic lineage, updated techniques, and a culture of growth with every student. ...more
Karate
August 24, 2025•2 min read
Copyright Yushukan Karate 2025. All rights reserved