Our
History
Hoshindo Karate was founded in 2005 by Roderick Martin Shihan and Malwina Martin Shihan, after decades of training and teaching karate around the world. Built on a passion for traditional martial arts and community development, the club has become a central dojo for the Japan Karatedo Federation Gojukai in Brisbane.
From humble beginnings, the club has grown into a respected home for martial artists of all ages — a place where character, discipline, and technique are developed equally.
The Meaning of “Hoshindo”
Ho Shin Do means “The Way of Protecting the Body,” but to us, it means more than physical self-defense. It’s about cultivating awareness, understanding, and strength — physically, mentally, and emotionally. The idea of “protection” stretches far beyond fighting skills, it’s about nurturing a resilient, mindful, and positive life.
Our Philosophy
We believe karate should make life better. That’s why our philosophy is grounded in holistic development. Classes are built to improve focus, strength, flexibility, confidence, and emotional balance. We train hard, but we train smart — using knowledge of anatomy and movement to build strength without injury.
We don’t just teach you how to defend yourself. We teach you how to thrive.
Meet Our Founders
Roderick Martin Shihan
7th Dan Gojuryu Seiwakai, 7th Dan JKF Gojuka
Founder & Chief Instructor of Hoshindo, Rod Shihan has studied under legendary Japanese masters such as Tasaki Shuji Hanshi and Fujiwara Seiichi Hanshi. He also runs Go2 Health — a cutting-edge sports medical clinic — and brings his deep understanding of anatomy, acupuncture, and movement science into every class.
Malwina Martin Shihan
6th Dan Gojuryu Seiwakai, 6th Dan JKF Gojukai
Malwina Shihan is an accomplished martial artist, mother, and co-founder of Hoshindo. Her teaching brings a strong foundation of traditional technique along with a warm, community-focused approach that empowers students of all ages.
Our Instructors
Dr Janine Boothroyd
5th Dan Seiwakai, JKF Gojukai
Damien Seidel (Adelaide)
5th Dan
Naomi Higgs (Adelaide)
4th Dan
Stephen Sijuwade (Manchester, UK)
5th Dan
Jeff Cook
3rd Dan Seiwakai
Training Methodology
Our classes are based on traditional Gojuryu karate as taught by the JKF Gojukai and Seiwakai. We combine this deep lineage with modern sports science and a strong emphasis on internal development. Students progress through structured techniques, self-reflection, physical conditioning, and kata, all taught with care and challenge in equal measure.
Whether you’re 7 or 75, beginner or advanced, we teach in a way that meets you where you are, and helps you grow.
In Connection With Go2 Health
Hoshindo is closely linked to Go2 Health, a multidisciplinary clinic founded by Rod Martin Shihan. The clinic focuses on rehabilitation, acupuncture, and holistic health – all of which inform the way we teach. Students benefit from a training environment grounded in cutting-edge science and injury prevention.