ABOUT
Our Story
Legacy in Motion: The Curtin Karate Journey
1971 - The Beginning
Curtin Karate Club was established in 1971 by Eric Ho Sensei, a dedicated practitioner and student at the Western Australian Institute of Technology (WAIT), which later became Curtin University of Technology.
From WAIT to Curtin University
Since its inception, the club has upheld the timeless values of discipline, respect and perseverance that are central to traditional karate. Over the years, our members have achieved significant success in both state and national competitions, earning titles in kata, kumite and kobudo through the Australian Karate Federation.
Many have also attained black belt (dan) grades, a testament to their commitment and dedication, often while balancing the demands of study, work and personal growth.
Curtin Karate Today
Curtin Karate Club is a non-profit oriented club committed to the personal growth and development of its members. We offer a supportive, respectful atmosphere where individuals can engage in recreational karate, cultivating both martial arts skills and strong character in the true spirit of karate.
OUR APPROACH
Karate Is More Than Exercise
At Curtin Karate, we see karate as a way to develop both the body and the mind. Through regular practice, you learn new skills, challenge yourself and discover the value of focus, discipline and perseverance.
Karate Is About More Than the Physical
At first, karate may seem to be about learning movements and techniques. But as you practise, you begin to notice there is much more to it.
Training develops movement, coordination, balance and control, while also giving you an opportunity to improve your concentration and awareness.
Our classes are structured and instructor-led, with students learning the fundamentals step by step. As you progress, you begin to understand how technique, timing and control come together.
Learning Through Practice
Karate is not something you master overnight. Progress comes from regular practice, paying attention to the details and building on what you have learned.
Sometimes progress is obvious. Other times it might simply be getting a little more comfortable with a movement, improving your balance or understanding something that didn't make sense the week before.
That's part of the appeal of karate. There is always something to learn, and every class gives you another opportunity to improve.
Our Karate
Curtin Karate practises Shito-Ryu Karate, one of the major styles of Japanese karate.
Training includes kihon (basics), kata and kumite, with an emphasis on sound technique, control, timing and understanding.
We are a recreational adult club rather than a competition-focused dojo. We take our training seriously, while creating a welcoming environment where adults can learn and develop regardless of their previous experience.
Tai Shin Kan
Tai Shin Kan reflects the philosophy behind our practice — developing the body and mind together through karate.
It reminds us that karate is not only about physical technique, but also about self-discipline, awareness, perseverance and personal growth.
The Deeper Side of Karate
Karate-do is also about the person you develop into through practice.
Respect, patience, perseverance and self-discipline aren't developed simply by talking about them. They develop over time - by turning up, learning, making mistakes, listening, practising and trying again.
For some people, karate becomes a way to stay active. For others, it becomes a way to clear the mind, challenge themselves or simply have some time away from the demands of everyday life.
There is no single reason to practise karate. What you take from it can develop and change as you do.
CURIOUS ABOUT KARATE?
You don't need to know anything about karate before you start. Our instructors will guide you through the fundamentals and help you become familiar with the training.
Your first week is complimentary.
OUR AFFILIATIONS
Curtin Karate Club is affiliated with the Australian Karate Federation (AKF) and the Western Australia Karate Federation (WAKF).
Jacob Delfos
“Curtin Karate Club provides an enjoyable and safe environment to learn the art of karate. There is a focus on the true underlying intent of the art, helping you to achieve deeper benefits than merely exercise and self-defence. The club atmosphere is friendly and supportive, with a collective purpose of helping one another grow as opposed to competing against each other. "
TESTIMONIALS
Rodrigo Garcia
"Learning karate from Eric Sensei was one of the most rewarding experiences in martial arts I've had! His deep knowledge and dedication to technique over strength, combined with a proactive teaching style, make the training sessions truly immersive and engaging. It's been an excellent circuit-breaker for me on stressful days."
Flo Anderson
“The training sessions are structured and challenging but the instructors create a supportive environment. The Club is more than just a karate club; it's about becoming a better version of yourself both on and off the mat. Highly recommend!”