I have been studying martial arts for the best part of twelve years and for the last several years have felt something was lacking in my training. Since joining Koryu I have rediscovered my passion for karate. Classes are structured without becoming stale or boring and everything taught not only has a purpose but is explained and applied, an important distinction often missing in other clubs. Even as a black belt I have already seen improvements in all aspects of my training which I was not expecting after so short a time. The syllabus is laid out in a straight forward and logical progression which is easy to learn whether you come from a martial arts background or you've never thrown a punch in your life. Regardless of age or experience Koryu Uchinadi offers realistic and rewarding karate for everyone.

Sensei Marc Mathews has been my Sensei since 1990. As a current serving police officer I have had many opportunities to put Sensei Marcs practical self-defense techniques into real life situations. Sensei Marc's techniques really work. Sensei Marc has a great passion and ability to teach martial arts to anyone and his enthusiasm and energy within a class is infectious. Sensei Marc's ability as an instructor to recognize each student’s strengths and weaknesses allows each student to reach their full potential. I have no reservations in recommending Sensei Marc from a beginner to an advanced black belt, Sensei Marc is the real deal!

After studying Shotokan Karate in the UK and training with a number of karate realists, I wanted to find a holistic and pragmatic system to train in after emigrating to Australia...I found that system with Koryu Uchinadi at Newcastle Karate, training under Sensei Marc Mathews. Kicking, striking, grappling and ground fighting are all part of Koryu's syllabus, making it just what I was looking for!

Our boys are learning a variety of skills in a disciplined and encouraging environment at Newcastle Karate. There is always a great Sensei to student ratio which provides a greater level of personal instruction. The classes are fun with the boys eager to attend the next session and the online information helps reinforce the techniques when practising at home. We feel our boys are benefiting greatly from their time at Newcastle Karate and with some hard work, there may be future black belts in our household!

I first started training with Sensei Marc Mathews in 1994 in Shorinjiryu Karate. It was during my first year of training that Sensei started training under Hanshi Patrick McCarthy. As a student I did not realize how incredible lucky I was to be introduced to the martial arts style that is Koryu Uchinadi Kenpo Jutsu. In the martial arts world of competitive sports related styles we were lucky to have found a style that was effective against habitual acts of violence, studied the anatomic human movement and the associated reaction to manipulation of vital points and nerve endings. If you are thinking of starting a martial art than you will be extremely lucky to have an exceptional teacher like Sensei Marc. If you already have been training in a sports orientated Martial Art, then you might enjoy the journey of discovery that Koryu Uchinadi will take you on.

I have just had the most fun I've had in ages doing the ladies Kickboxing class. My first class, I was made to feel welcome by everyone, the instruction was targeted and the workout was awesome. I'll definitely be back for more!

Marc Mathews, Karate school is a great way to get some fitness done with the benefit of training with your Children, I have my daughters in Marcs Karate school and have found their confidence and fitness has improved a lot. Karate is more than just a martial art it teaches Discipline and respect for others which is a great thing for children to know. Marcs classes are taught in a relaxed easy to understand style. which comes from Marcs easy going nature, I personally have had knee and back problems from being a fire fighter and found the training has helped with my flexibility a lot and has meant my posture has improved. So for a fun way to get some fitness done with your Children give Marc a ring.

My 9-year-old grandson started training with this school this year and I was so impressed that I decided to start training again myself. We enjoy the classes which teach an original Okinanawan style of karate. Len, 1st Dan, Szlagowski Karate, 65 years old.

I have been training at Newcastle Karate for some months now, I have recently started back training after a long layoff I find Sensei Marc to bee of excellent standard and very dedicated, I have previously trained in various styles of Karate since I was 15yrs old, and am very much enjoying training with Sensei, with regards Laurence T. 3rd Dan.

My son started with Marc at Newcastle Karate during his first year at school, and in the years since then has made steady progress towards his goal of achieving a black belt. Marc and the other Sensei's have been very accommodating of his physical limitations, and have helped us to develop a stronger, more disciplined and confident child. We have seen the benefits of his training and persistence with learning have a positive impact on his school work as well. All of the kids at the dojo seem to have the right spirit, and the focus is definitely on developing the ability to defend yourself, and I believe the skills he is learning will help him overcome any obstacles he may face in future. I've also enjoyed picking up a few tips and moves when practising with him at home! I'm so proud of his achievements to date and can't wait to have a black belt in the family!

Jack my son had just finished training when he said thanks dad for always taking him. I said that’s ok mate you must really want to be a black belt if you train four times a week and he replied to me no dad i want to be a sensei so i to can help train other kids like me. It was this moment I had relised my son had become part of the Newcastle Karate family. I would like to thank sensei Mark and his team for not only being great instructors but also for being the greatest role models in the community. What you guys do for these kids is awesome you teach them self-confidence, belief and respect for themselves and others and that hard work and commitment will bring rewards. I love watching my son grow with the belief and self-discipline you have instilled in him. The day Jack receives his black belt will no doubt bring a tear to my eye but I will know the day he put on a white belt and went to Newcastle Karate to train was his greatest achievement.

Amazing gym. Heaps of space, excellent gear and very clean. Real pride taken in this gym and the upbeat vibe reflects it. Tried my first MMA class with Fabricio Pereira today, can't speak highly enough of him as a coach. Will be back for his specialty - the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class! After seeing the karate instructors and little ones in action today, I will also be enrolling my daughter in the karate classes.

I couldn’t give a bigger wrap to this well run martial arts facility. I have two young boys who train once a week, the growth and skills they have learned in a year has made me one proud dad. Excellent skilled trainers to student ratio. I have been a student in the adults karate class with only due to work commitments i have regrettably had to put a hold on my classes which was not an issue. This form of karate was more practical than i imagined, techniques and training which relate to the real world in my opinion. Physically challenging, yes, confidence building, yes. As a current serving police officer i certainly found this form of martial arts to be superior to any physical training i have received in the force. Can only say get the family or yourselves down for a go you will not regret it.

Newcastle Karate is an all-round excellent mixed martial arts club. I had been training for 4 years in 2 other clubs and felt disconnected. Sensei Marc trains with all of his students which shows his dedication to the club. Newcastle Karate combines other mixed martial art skills which I love and have finally found what I’m looking for.! The other guys and girls are awesome to train with and there is a real genuine feel that you belong to the club. Apart from a dynamic mixed martial arts style it’s a massive workout that caters to all levels. Love it..... Sign me up for lifetime membership!!

A big thanks to Marc and Shane for an awesome introduction to kickboxing. I have thoroughly enjoyed the classes I've attended and look forward to returning in the future. The ladies only kickboxing class is a great environment in which to learn new skills as a beginner. It really gets the heart and spirit pumping! It offers an effective, challenging and really fun way to exercise the body and mind, increasing fitness and confidence.

Students at St Paul's Booragul have had karate as an option for Friday afternoon Sport. Besides the obvious benefit of Improving the ability to defend yourself other benefits of studying Martial arts include: Fitness, Reduced risk of Injury, Self-discipline, focus and concentration, Respect for yourself and each other, Self-confidence These benefits go beyond doing well in martial arts. For students these benefits translate directly into ability to focus and perform better at schoolwork. Sensei Marc Mathews, assisted by Sensei Laurie, of Newcastle Karate has been instructing classes of about 20 students on Friday afternoons. A typical class includes warm up exercises to improve strength and flexibility, basic punching, blocking and kicking techniques and self-defence techniques against pushes and grabs. The students have enjoyed participating and their improvement has been quite noticeable.

I chose Newcastle Karate because it was a lot of fun from the very first class. I feel comfortable, accepted and respected, it makes me feel confident and calm. I like that there are a lot of Sensei's to help you, so you don’t have to wait for one instructor to come around and help you, there is always someone to help you and show you the correct moves. It is a lot of fun, you meet a lot of new friends and I am always excited about when my next class is on.

Before we joined Newcastle Karate we looked around at the other Karate schools and our girls chose Newcastle Karate as their favourite straight away. Furthermore, it was the best value for money compared to the other karate schools. The experience and professionalism is of a very high standard without the high price tag. Everyone is friendly, welcoming and more than happy to help and support you. The fact that there are a lot more instructors per student is an advantage. Within a few weeks we noticed our girls’ concentration, focus and discipline increase and an overall positive attitude. We recommend Newcastle Karate to anyone who is looking for a professional and friendly karate school.

Hi Marc I am writing to thank you for the team building experience that you facilitated for my operational team at Jemena. It was great to see the team working out of their comfort zone and in an environment that encouraged them to work together and build trust. An important part of the experience was to also get our people active and moving. The session worked brilliantly and was enjoyed by all team members. It was great to participate in a unique corporate team building program and I would highly recommend this to other companies. Once again thank you, sensei Marc.

After training in another style for 9 years, I'm so glad I changed over to Newcastle Karate, it's such an inviting environment with amazing people to help push you to your next grade and get an amazing training session out in each class. I have never been in a dojo where it's like a little family, everyone just gets along so well and helps each other out. There are an amazing range of black belts in the class, were in most styles you only get one per class! Sensei Marc is definitely a great teacher and helps push everyone where it's needed, and gain great self-defence and fighting spirt. Definitely recommend this places for children and adults.