Burleigh Heads's Most Trusted Karate School

Karate Classes in Burleigh Heads

Since , Black Belt Plus has been building something genuinely special in Burleigh Heads — a Karate school where beginners feel at home, progress is real, and students keep coming back because they love it. Whether you’re looking to get fit, learn practical self-defence, or develop the kind of discipline that only traditional Karate can build, we have a place for you.

Complete Beginners Welcome — No Experience Needed

Programs for All Ages — Kids, Teens & Adults

Certified Black Belt Instructors with Decades of Teaching Experience

A Dojo Culture Rooted in Respect, Encouragement & Community

170+

Five-Star Reviews on Google

18+ Years

Proudly Serving Burleigh Since

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Find the Right Program for You

Which Program Matches?

Preschool Karate
Ages 4 to 6

Kids Karate
Ages 7 to 12

Teen Karate
Ages 13 to 18

Adult Karate
Ages 18+

The Real Challenge

Why So Many Burleigh Heads Residents Are Turning to Karate

Life in Burleigh Heads moves fast. Between packed schedules, constant distractions, and pressure coming from every direction, it’s easy to feel like you’re just keeping up rather than truly thriving. Most fitness options focus only on the body. Karate trains the mind too. At Black Belt Plus, we’ve built a program that fits real Burleigh life — and delivers results that go far beyond the mat.

For Adults

You Know You're Capable of More

There's a version of you that moves through Burleigh Heads with quiet confidence — calm under pressure, clear-headed when it counts. That version isn't out of reach. It just needs the right environment to develop. That's exactly what we build in our Karate classes.

Your Mind Needs a Break

Work stress, family responsibilities, an endless mental to-do list — it all adds up. Our students consistently tell us they leave each class feeling calmer, more focused, and more in control than they've felt in years. Karate is moving meditation, and it genuinely works.

The Gym Has Stopped Working for You

Treadmills get boring. Group fitness loses its edge. You need a practice that challenges you at every level, grows with you over time, and gives you something meaningful to work toward. Karate delivers that — every single class.

You Want to Feel Genuinely Capable

Learning practical self-defence isn't about fear — it's about confidence. Our Karate training in Burleigh Heads gives you real-world skills that build quiet, unshakeable self-assurance wherever you go.

For Parents

You Want an Activity That Actually Builds Character

Most kids' activities fill time — but they don't build character. Karate is different. It teaches discipline, respect, focus, and resilience in a way that carries into school, home, and every challenge your child faces ahead. Parents consistently tell us they notice the shift within the first couple of months.

Your Child Deserves Real Confidence

Real confidence isn't handed out — it's earned. At Black Belt Plus, your child will set goals, push through challenges, and experience genuine achievement through our belt progression system. They'll discover what they're truly capable of.

Your Child Struggles with Focus or Self-Control

Screens are constantly competing for your child's attention. Karate training helps redirect that energy productively. Through structured drills, clear expectations, and consistent practice, students learn to control their body and their mind. Teachers notice. Parents notice. Your child feels the difference.

You Want Them Safe and Confident

Bullying happens. Peer pressure is real. And you can't always be there. Karate doesn't teach your child to fight — it teaches them to stand firm, set boundaries, and carry themselves with the kind of presence that prevents conflict before it starts. And if a situation does escalate, they'll have the composure and skills to handle it.

How It Works

Four Simple Steps to Starting Karate in Burleigh Heads

No complicated process. No pressure. Just a clear, straightforward path to getting on the mat.

Book Your Trial Class

No pressure, no commitment. Simply fill in the form, pick a time that works for you, and show up in comfortable clothes — we'll handle everything else.

Start with a Personal Intro Session

Every new student begins with a one-on-one introductory session with our Chief Instructor. It's your chance to ask questions, get comfortable, and set yourself up for success from day one.

Find Your Program

We'll help you identify the right program and schedule to suit your life, your goals, and your current level. No guesswork — just a plan that works for you.

Begin Your Journey

Once you're enrolled, you'll start progressing toward your first belt with clear milestones to guide you. Build friendships, develop real skills, and experience the support of a community that genuinely has your back.

Success Stories

Burleigh Heads Martial Arts Reviews – What Students & Parents Say

Real results from kids, teens, and adults training at Black Belt Plus

Black Belt Plus is a fantastic place for kids to encourage their confidence, self discipline, goals for life, but it is also a very fun place to be part of that is all about feeling positive and happy. Instructor Renzo is an absolute joy to watch, his enthusiasm of positive energy is just outstanding and so natural!

My son has been part of the BBP community for more than 2 years (he's 7 now). I cannot commend them more highly in a general sense, and I wish to comment positively on a specific recent experience. My son is about to turn 8 and has been training since he was just 5. He recently hit a little "wall" as expectations and complexity stepped up a notch. I wrote the following to the club: "Instructor Renzo is clearly in touch with his young students, and the one-on-one lessons this week and last week have been worth 100 group sessions. My son now feels ready for grading, and I feel that Instructor Renzo listened to my observations and requests. He is clearly a current, active practitioner of his art at the highest levels. THANK YOU! J" It is hard to engage such young children, but BBP encourages younger children to show their best and they know how to bring out the best in them. Thank you. J

Excellent martial arts studio for kids (little ninjas!). The instructors coach in such a positive and encouraging way where the kids feel supported and motivated. I really enjoy the values they consistently reinforce - respect, honesty, discipline and confidence, all taught in a kind, patient and genuinely fun way. It’s so much more than just learning martial arts.

Our Son Kai started at Black Belt Plus about a months ago. We are so impressed with all aspects of the centre. The focus on not only quality self defence but character growth and development is amazing. Instructor Renzo is amazing with all the kids along with the rest of the team. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a quality martial arts school that prioritises good values, and self development inside and outside of the club.

Our son has been training at Black Belt Plus for over a year now, and the growth we’ve seen in him has been incredible. His confidence and self‑belief have improved so much, both on and off the mat. The instructors are excellent - patient, encouraging, and invested in helping each child develop their skills while having fun. They create a positive, respectful environment where kids feel supported and motivated to do their best. We couldn’t be happier with the experience and highly recommend Black Belt Plus.

This has been one of the best decisions we’ve made for our child. We originally enrolled to help with confidence and emotional regulation and the changes have been incredible. Our daughter is calmer, more confident, and listens so much better at home and school. The instructors are warm, structured and genuinely care about the kids as individuals. As a mum, I feel complete trust every time we walk through the door. Highly recommend to any parent looking for more than just a sport.

Our son has been a member of Black Belt Plus for almost 1 year. He thoroughly enjoys going to class and has learned many new skills in all areas of personal development. All of the staff are engaging and wonderful. Instructor Renzo and Chief Instructor Jonathon are both very encouraging which assists all students to reach their full potential. Our son has become more confident and focused during his time with the Black Belt Plus community. It is a wonderful program. A big shout out to Alyson also who is very organised and helpful with answering any questions!

Black Belt Plus has been incredibile for my child. We joined to help with confidence and focus, and within weeks we saw real changes- better listening, more discipline, and a big boost in self-belief. The instructors are warm, structured and genuinely care. If your child needs confidence, respect, or positive behaviour skills, this place works. Highly recommend.

Both of my children train here and they love it. It is a very supportive centre with great instructors and staff. During this time we have noticed a wonderful change in their confidence and self esteem. I highly recommend the centre to everyone wanting to learn martial arts.

So happy here! My girls love going. Everyone is so welcoming. Highly Recommend!!!

The Solution

How Black Belt Plus Creates Real Change — Not Just Better Kicks

Training at Black Belt Plus isn’t just about learning Karate. It’s about becoming more disciplined, more capable, and more confident in everything you do. Here’s what makes our approach different:

Training That Meets You Where You Are

In every class, students take part in partner drills, pad work, bag training, solo exercises, stretching, and strength development. Each session is structured to keep students active, engaged, and progressing. We blend traditional Karate values with modern coaching methods — clear instruction, positive reinforcement, and regular mat chats to build character and life skills. Students build practical self-defence skills, improved fitness, and strong fundamentals alongside confidence, focus, and discipline. Our structured belt system gives everyone clear milestones to work toward, with the path to a first belt achievable in as little as 1 month and black belt within 4 years for dedicated students training 3 times per week.

Instructors Who Are Genuinely Invested in You

Our black belt instructors don't just demonstrate techniques — they learn your name on day one, remember your goals, and check in on your progress every session. For them, teaching isn't just a job. It's a calling.

Values That Stay with You for Life

Discipline, humility, perseverance, respect — these aren't just words on a wall. They're woven into every drill, every belt test, and every interaction on the mat. Former students tell us years later that Karate changed how they parent, how they lead, and how they face setbacks.

A Community That Feels Like Home

No egos. No cliques. No intimidation. From your very first class, you'll feel the difference — a mat full of people genuinely supporting each other, and instructors who celebrate every win alongside you. That's the culture we've built, and it's what keeps people coming back.

Our Programs

Karate Classes in Burleigh Heads For Every Age & Experience Level

From 4-year-olds stepping onto the mat for the very first time to adults earning their first belt — we have a program built for you. Explore your options below.

Preschool Karate Classes (Ages 4–6)

Building Big Skills in Little Learners

Our Preschool Karate program is designed specifically for children aged 4 to 6, blending foundational Karate skills with games, movement, and imaginative activities that keep young learners engaged. Every class builds coordination, listening skills, and confidence in a safe, encouraging environment. Each new student starts with a personalised one-on-one introductory session so we can understand your child and set them up for success from day one. Our instructors tailor every session to meet each child at their level, supporting their development at their own pace.

Built for Ages 4–6 in a Fun, Structured Setting
Learn Through Play, Movement & Games
Builds Listening, Focus & School Readiness
Improves Coordination, Balance & Body Awareness
Personalised Intro Session for Every New Student
No Experience Needed — Perfect First Activity

Kids Karate Classes (Ages 7–12)

Confidence, Discipline & Real Skills — Classes Kids Love

Our Kids Karate program is built for children aged 7 to 12 and combines partner drills, pad work, bag training, and structured exercises to keep students active, engaged, and progressing every class. We blend traditional Karate values with modern coaching methods, using positive reinforcement and regular mat chats to develop character alongside technique. Students build practical self-defence skills, improved fitness, and strong fundamentals — as well as confidence, focus, and resilience that carry well beyond the mat. Every child progresses at their own pace with clear belt milestones to work toward.

Age-Appropriate Training — Every Drill Fits the Group
Character Development Built Into Every Class
Bully Prevention & Confidence Building
Goal-Setting Through Belt Progression
Coordination, Fitness & Physical Development
No Prior Experience Required

Teen Karate Classes (Ages 13–18)

A Positive Outlet, Strong Peers & Skills That Matter

Teenagers face real pressure — academically, socially, and personally. Our Teen Karate program gives them a structured, high-energy environment where they can channel that energy productively. Through partner drills, pad work, and focused training, students build fitness, self-defence skills, and the kind of mental resilience that makes a genuine difference in everyday life. We also offer a leadership pathway for teens who show an interest in becoming instructors, developing communication skills, responsibility, and confidence along the way.

High-Energy Training That Channels Teen Drive
Builds Focus, Discipline & Mental Resilience
Practical Self-Defence for Real-World Situations
Leadership Pathway for Motivated Students
Supportive Peer Community Built on Respect
Open to Beginners and Experienced Students

Adult Karate Classes (Ages 18+)

Train Hard, Think Clearly & Build the Body and Mind You Want

No fitness background required. No flexibility needed. No prior experience necessary. Our Adult Karate classes in Burleigh Heads are designed for real people with real lives — professionals, parents, and everyone in between. Each class combines partner drills, pad work, bag training, and conditioning to give you a full-body workout alongside genuine self-defence skills. We also offer one-on-one private lessons with our Chief Instructor for focused, personalised development whenever you need it. The result is more than just fitness — it’s a practice that builds clarity, confidence, and resilience you’ll carry everywhere.

Full-Body Conditioning — Strength, Cardio & Mobility
Practical Self-Defence Built for Real Situations
Stress Relief & Mental Clarity After Every Session
One-on-One Private Lessons Available
Supportive, No-Ego Environment — Just Progress
Flexible Scheduling to Suit Your Life

Interested In Joining Our Classes?

We offer Karate classes in Burleigh Heads for every age group and every starting point. Let us help you find the right fit — no pressure, just come try a class and see for yourself.

Real Results

What Karate Actually Does for Burleigh Heads Families

These aren’t highlight reel stories. These are real people who walked through our doors unsure — and walked out genuinely changed.

James, Age 5 — Preschool Karate

BEFORE

AFTER

Daniel, Age 14 — Teen Karate

BEFORE

AFTER

Trains three times a week and looks forward to every session
Earned his first belt and is working steadily toward the next
More focused at school — says training taught him how to apply himself
Mentoring younger students and building real leadership skills

Sandra, Age 38 — Adult Karate

BEFORE

AFTER

Training consistently and feeling stronger than she has in years
Uses Karate classes as her go-to stress release after a long day
Describes the dojo as "the best decision I've made for myself in a long time"
Just graded for her second belt and is already setting her next goal

Why Black Belt Plus?

Why Burleigh Heads Families Choose Black Belt Plus Over Other Karate Schools

There are other Karate schools in Burleigh. Here’s why the families who train here wouldn’t train anywhere else.

Instructors Who Teach — Not Just Demonstrate

Every instructor on our team is highly trained and committed to quality teaching. They're educators first, martial artists second — and they invest genuinely in each student's growth.

Completely Beginner-Friendly

Our programs are built from the ground up for people with zero experience. The learning curve is gradual, manageable, and never intimidating.

Age-Appropriate in Every Way

Class structure, drill intensity, partner work, and belt expectations are all carefully calibrated to suit the specific age group in the room.

Character Is Our Core Curriculum

The techniques are the vehicle. Respect, perseverance, focus, and self-discipline are the real destination — built into every class through our mat chats and structured character development program.

A Facility That Reflects Our Standards

Fully matted training areas, high-quality equipment, a dedicated kids' play area, parent seating overlooking the mat, and a full mirrored training wall — everything is designed for safety, focus, and excellence.

A Schedule That Works for Burleigh Life

With plenty of class times to choose from, you can train consistently without rearranging your entire week.

Families Who Train Together, Stay Together

Siblings, parents, and kids all on the mat together — building shared memories alongside real strength, skill, and confidence.

You'll Always Know Where You Stand

Clear belt criteria, regular gradings, and honest feedback from your instructors mean you always know your progress and your next step forward.

Meet Your Instructors

Certified Black Belt Instructors Who Care About Your Success

At Black Belt Plus, our instructors aren’t just technically outstanding — they genuinely care about the people they teach. Here’s the team you’ll be training with.

Jonathon Hourigan

Chief Instructor & Founder

Founder and Owner of Black Belt Plus, Jonathon Hourigan has over 29 years of experience teaching martial arts. He is an internationally certified instructor and a pioneer in child development, having designed innovative programs that specifically target anti-bullying, self-defence, and personal growth. His curriculum equips children with the physical and mental skills needed to succeed in school, maintain a peaceful home life, and become the best version of themselves. As Chief Instructor, Jonathon is passionate about going beyond traditional martial arts to inspire and empower today’s youth.

Alyson Hourigan

School Director

Alyson’s vision for Black Belt Plus was set 25 years ago — to provide dynamic martial arts programs that positively impact the Gold Coast community, one student at a time. Every day she sees students achieving amazing results, which brings her enormous joy and drives her continued commitment to the school and its community.

Renzo

Head Instructor

Teaching martial arts is Renzo’s passion because it goes far beyond physical skills. For him, it’s about building students’ confidence, discipline, and respect. Watching them grow — on and off the mat — is a true privilege. Their determination and enthusiasm inspire him every single day.

Carmel

Instructor

Carmel believes in the transformative power of martial arts — not just the physical benefits, but the confidence, self-respect, and mental resilience it builds. She encourages every student to apply these principles daily, living by the belief that the more you commit in training, the more capable you become in life. Her passion lies in empowering others to be extraordinary on and off the mat.

Gonzalo

Instructor

Gonzalo is a dedicated instructor at Black Belt Plus, contributing his skills and passion to the school’s strong team of educators.

Monique

Instructor

Monique is a committed instructor at Black Belt Plus, supporting students in their development both on and off the mat.

Kaiden

Junior Assistant Instructor

Kaiden serves as a Junior Assistant Instructor at Black Belt Plus, helping to support and encourage students as part of the school’s leadership pathway program.

Will

Junior Assistant Instructor

Will is a Junior Assistant Instructor at Black Belt Plus, developing his leadership and communication skills while helping to guide and motivate students on the mat.

Chanel

Junior Assistant Instructor

Chanel is a Junior Assistant Instructor at Black Belt Plus, contributing to a positive and supportive class environment for students of all ages.

Abby

Junior Assistant Instructor

Abby is a Junior Assistant Instructor at Black Belt Plus, helping support students and contribute to the school’s welcoming and encouraging community culture.

Billie

Junior Receptionist

Billie serves as Junior Receptionist at Black Belt Plus, helping to create a warm and welcoming front-of-house experience for students and families.

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions About Karate Classes in Burleigh Heads? We've Got Answers.

Here are the questions we hear most often before people come in for their first class. Still not sure? Give us a call at (07) 5522 0755 and we’ll help.

Do I need any experience to join Karate classes in Burleigh Heads?

Not at all. Our programs are designed from the ground up for complete beginners. Whether you’re signing up for yourself or your child, every new student starts with a personalised one-on-one introductory session with our Chief Instructor so we can understand your goals and set you up for success from day one.

What ages do you cater for?

We offer programs for children from age 4 right through to adults. Our current group programs include Preschool Karate (ages 4–6), Kids Karate (ages 7–12), Teen Karate (ages 13–18), and Adult Karate (ages 18+). Every program is age-appropriate and tailored to the developmental needs of the group.

What does a typical class look like?

Each class includes a mix of partner drills, pad work, bag training, solo exercises, stretching, and strength development. Sessions are structured to keep students active, engaged, and progressing. We also incorporate regular mat chats to build character, focus, and life skills — not just physical technique.

How long does it take to earn a first belt?

Most students are eligible for their first belt promotion within around one – two months of consistent training. The path to black belt typically takes around three – five years for dedicated students training approximately three times per week. Progress is always individual — we support each student at their own pace.

Do you offer family discounts?

Yes. We believe training together is one of the best things a family can do. We offer family discounts to make it easier for siblings to train. Your third family member receives 50% off their membership, and additional family members can train free.

What facilities do you have?

We have two main training areas plus a dedicated private space for one-on-one introductory sessions. Our main downstairs mat area hosts all group classes with parent seating so families can watch at all times. There’s also a second training space upstairs for additional sessions, a small warm-up area where students can connect before class, a dedicated kids’ play area for younger siblings, and a full mirrored training wall. The facility is fully matted, well-organised, and maintained to a high standard.

Do students compete in tournaments?

While competition isn’t our main focus, some students do choose to participate. With over 20 years in the community and strong connections with other martial arts schools, we support those who are interested. Participation is always optional — our core focus is personal development, confidence, and character.

What else happens beyond regular classes?

We run structured monthly Parents’ Night Out events, giving children a fun supervised environment while parents enjoy a well-earned break. We also hold school holiday workshops to keep students active and engaged outside of term time. There are additional opportunities for camps and special programs that help students build independence, confidence, and stronger friendships within the school.

Black Belt Plus

Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Waters, Miami, Mermaid Beach, Robina, Varsity Lakes, Reedy Creek, Elanora, Palm Beach, Tallebudgera, Tallebudgera Valley

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