Frequently Asked Questions

Ryukyu Kempo is a traditional Okinawan martial art that emphasizes practical self-defense, personal development, and problem-solving skills. Our lineage comes directly from Master Taika Seiyu Oyata, who preserved the authentic fighting methods and philosophical principles of old Okinawan karate. Unlike sport-oriented martial arts, Ryukyu Kempo focuses on realistic protection strategies and developing critical thinking skills alongside physical techniques.

Ryukenkan Dojo operates on a donations-based model, making authentic martial arts training accessible to everyone regardless of financial circumstances. We believe that effective self-protection training and the life-changing benefits of martial arts should not be limited to those who can afford expensive monthly fees. We focus on traditional Okinawan methods that remain effective and relevant in the modern world.

Marty Rickard (Renshi) is the owner and chief instructor of Ryukenkan Dojo. With over 40 years of martial arts experience and more than 30 years of teaching, Marty brings deep knowledge of Ryukyu Kempo Karate in the Oyata lineage, combined with extensive cross-training in multiple martial systems.

Ryukenkan Dojo welcomes students of all ages and experience levels. We serve primarily kids and families, creating a community-focused training environment where parents and children can train together. Whether you're 18 or 80, beginning or experienced, our classes adapt to your capabilities. No previous martial arts experience is required.

Ryukenkan Dojo operates on a donations-based model. You contribute what you can afford, when you can afford it. There are no fixed membership fees, no contracts, and no one is turned away due to inability to pay. This model reflects our core belief that martial arts training should be accessible to everyone who wants to learn.

New students receive 10 free trial classes with no obligation. This gives you ample time to experience our teaching approach, meet the instructor and other students, understand what Ryukyu Kempo training involves, and decide if Ryukenkan Dojo is right for you.

For your first few classes, wear comfortable athletic clothing that allows free movement: a t-shirt or workout shirt, sweatpants, athletic shorts, or yoga pants. Train barefoot as we don't wear shoes on the mat. Once you decide to continue training, we'll discuss getting a traditional gi (uniform).

Ryukenkan Dojo is located in Tauranga, New Zealand. Visit our Contact page for detailed location information and directions.

Ryukyu Kempo training develops physical skills (effective striking, blocking, footwork, grappling, joint manipulation, and practical self-defense), mental skills (problem-solving under pressure, spatial awareness, tactical thinking, focus and discipline), and personal development (respect, perseverance, community, and understanding violence and how to avoid or resolve it).

No. Ryukenkan Dojo teaches traditional Okinawan martial arts for practical application, not sport competition. While we respect sport martial arts, our focus is on authentic self-protection methods, traditional techniques and principles, personal development and problem-solving, and preserving the effectiveness of old Okinawan methods.

Consistency matters more than frequency. Most students train 2-3 times per week, which provides enough repetition to develop skills while allowing time for recovery and integration. We understand that life is busy—train when you can, miss when you must, and return when you're able.

Safety is a priority at Ryukenkan Dojo. Classes are supervised by experienced instructors, techniques are taught progressively with proper safety protocols, students learn control before intensity, and training partners work cooperatively. Minor bumps and bruises can occur, but serious injuries are rare.

No. Martial arts training will get you in shape—you don't need to be fit before you begin. Students of all fitness levels train together, and we scale intensity to match individual capabilities. Start where you are, and progress at your own pace.

Master Taika Seiyu Oyata (1928-2012) was one of the last masters to preserve the authentic fighting methods of old Okinawan karate. The Oyata lineage maintains traditional Okinawan techniques and principles, practical self-defense applications, a complete martial system including strikes, grappling, pressure points, and weapons, and emphasis on understanding the "why" behind techniques.

Yes, but with important context: the best self-defense is avoiding conflict entirely through awareness, de-escalation, and good judgment. When physical defense becomes necessary, the techniques and principles of Ryukyu Kempo are highly effective—they were designed for real protection, not sport competition. We teach realistic self-protection, not movie-style fantasy fighting.

Absolutely. Ryukenkan Dojo has students across a wide age range. Traditional martial arts training can be adapted to any age and fitness level while maintaining effectiveness and depth. Many find that martial arts training at 40, 50, 60, or beyond improves balance, mobility, mental clarity, and overall quality of life.

Yes. Prospective students and parents are welcome to observe a class. However, we encourage you to participate in a trial class rather than just watching—you'll learn much more about our approach by experiencing it directly.

We welcome students with backgrounds in other martial systems. Your previous training provides a foundation that can enhance your learning. Approach training with an open mind—be willing to temporarily set aside previous knowledge to fully understand our methods.

Yes! Ryukenkan Dojo is designed to serve families. Parents and children training together creates shared experiences, mutual understanding, and family bonding through a common pursuit. Family training also allows parents to directly see what their children are learning.

Ryukenkan Dojo uses a traditional ranking system, but we don't emphasize rank the way many modern schools do. Rank represents your journey and accumulated knowledge, not your status compared to others. Testing occurs when students demonstrate readiness for advancement, not on a fixed schedule.