This course is designed to provide students the knowledge and understanding of the basic fundamentals from the outset and progressively work through a number of katas and drills to apply their learnt skills in a safe manner at all times. This is a progressive course and encourages those interested in learning a traditional martial art form. Instruction is undertaken by Sensei Gary Finch 7th Dan Black Belt (Kyoshi) who has been instructing Okinawan Uechi Ryu Karate for over 35 years. Sensei Gary has trained and instructed at various Dojos locations across the world visiting Okinawa Japan on various occasions.

Karate Introduction – Okinawan Uechi Ryu

Course Description

Discover the strength, discipline, and heritage of traditional martial arts in this beginner-friendly introduction to Okinawan Uechi Ryu Karate. 

Taught by Sensei Gary Finch, 7th Dan Black Belt (Kyoshi) with more than 35 years of international teaching experience, this course provides a solid foundation in self-defence, mental discipline, physical coordination, and personal growth. 

Whether you're seeking fitness, focus, confidence, or community, this course welcomes anyone interested in learning an authentic martial art in a respectful, encouraging environment.

Students will progressively build skills through structured drills, katas (forms), and partner work designed to apply techniques safely and effectively. 

Alongside physical practice, you’ll develop mental resilience, cultural appreciation, and a sense of camaraderie with your fellow students. 

All instruction is paced to support complete beginners and foster growth at every stage. 

No prior martial arts experience is required.

Course Structure

Over eight weekly sessions, students are introduced to the core fundamentals of Uechi Ryu Karate. 

Each class includes a warm-up, foundational drills, stance work, and simple katas (set movements). 

These build over time to include self-defence applications and paired training exercises. 

Instruction places strong emphasis on respect, discipline, safety, and personal improvement. 

Guided by Sensei Gary Finch, each session offers progression and practical learning that meets students at their level, with opportunities to ask questions and reflect on progress.

Course Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students will:

• Understand the foundational principles and techniques of Okinawan Uechi Ryu Karate.
• Demonstrate basic stances, strikes, blocks, and kata movements.
• Apply beginner-level self-defence techniques in a safe and controlled manner.
• Develop greater balance, coordination, and spatial awareness.
• Improve focus, discipline, and mental resilience through structured practice.
• Build physical fitness, strength, and reflexes appropriate to their own ability.
• Practise respect, etiquette, and positive interactions within the Dojo.
• Experience the cultural heritage of Okinawan martial arts.
• Gain confidence in their ability to progress and learn martial arts.
• Connect with a supportive community of fellow students and practitioners.

Your Tutor is Gary Finch

Gary has been teaching at the WEA since 2024.

Gary is an appointed South Australian White Ribbon Ambassador and provides support and information presentations and sessions to various interest and community groups promoting the overall safety of Women in our society today.