Traditional Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate - All levels

We offer training that integrates modern research and insights, and self defense workshops for communities that are particularly impacted by violence. Empty Cup Karate actively welcomes students from all genders, orientations, ages, financial statuses, backgrounds, and physical physical fitness levels.

Goju-ryu (“hard-soft style”) karate was founded in Okinawa by Chojun Miyagi (1888-1953). Sensei Miyagi studied with the legendary martial artist Kanryo Higaonna, who learned Chinese kempo in Fuzhou. After Higaonna’s death, Sensei Miyagi went to China himself to further study the traditional techniques. Miyagi developed novel methods for training strength and endurance, and also developed new kata (sets of techniques practiced by oneself) designed to gradually introduce new students to the style.

Goju-ryu is noted for balancing go (hard) and ju (soft) techniques. It is also well-known for its breathing techniques (based on chi gong methods) and methods for conditioning the body.

If you are a student, please call or email CourseHorse to avail of the Special Monthly price of $65.

Driving Instructions: Located just south of Astor Place, most easily accessible from the 6, NR, and BDFM trains.