Business Details
50+ Years
experience
UQ Taekwondo Club | Martial Arts Training in St Lucia
Established in 1971, UQ Taekwondo Club is the oldest martial arts club at the University of Queensland. We specialise in Sang Dan Tae Kwon Do, a practical self-defence system that combines striking, grappling, and boxing techniques. Our instructors, with decades of combined experience, focus on teaching students to execute techniques powerfully and fluidly while mastering traditional patterns. We welcome adults of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners, fostering a disciplined yet inclusive environment.Our curriculum includes basic techniques, sparring, ground fighting, and weapon defence, ensuring comprehensive martial arts development. With training sessions held at the UQ Sport complex, we provide flexible membership options and free trial classes to introduce newcomers to our community. Our commitment to quality instruction and student growth has made us a trusted name in Brisbane's martial arts scene.
Services
Martial Arts Training
Self-Defense Techniques
Sparring Sessions
Pattern Mastery
Fitness Improvement
Details
- Year established: 1971
Highlights and features
- We offer 50+ years of martial arts expertise with experienced instructors
- Our curriculum combines traditional patterns with modern self-defence techniques
- Inclusive environment welcoming all skill levels and backgrounds
- Three free trial sessions available for new members
- Specialised training in weapon defence and practical combat scenarios
Services
Martial Arts Training
Structured martial arts programs for adults of all skill levels. Our training develops physical fitness, discipline, and technical proficiency through traditional techniques and modern applications. Students learn practical self-defence while progressing through belt ranks under experienced instructors.
Self-Defense Techniques
Practical self-defence instruction covering strikes, blocks, and counterattacks. We teach effective techniques against common attacks, including weapon defence scenarios. Training incorporates real-world applications and situational awareness for personal safety.
Sparring Sessions
Controlled sparring practice to develop reflexes and tactical thinking. Students learn to apply techniques in dynamic scenarios while maintaining safety protocols. Sessions include both non-contact and light-contact formats for different skill levels.
Pattern Mastery
Traditional pattern (tul) instruction focusing on precise movements and technical execution. We teach 24 forms representing historical figures and philosophical concepts, building muscle memory and martial arts discipline through structured progression.
Fitness Improvement
Martial arts-based fitness programs enhancing strength, flexibility, and endurance. Our workouts combine technical drills with cardiovascular exercises to improve overall physical health while developing martial arts proficiency in a supportive environment.
People
Craig Wilkins
Senior Instructor, 2nd Dan
Studying TKD since his teens, Craig joined the club in 1984 and graded to 2nd Dan in 1987. He incorporates diverse martial arts experience including kung fu, boxing, and kali into his teaching.
Daniel Wilson
Senior Instructor, 2nd Dan
Training since 1994, Daniel attained his 2nd Dan in 2005. With experience in karate and kung fu, he brings teaching expertise and humour to his instruction, specialising in tournament techniques.
Terry McGibbon
Instructor, 1st Dan
A dedicated instructor with first-degree black belt, Terry contributes to the club's training programs while continuing his own martial arts development under senior instructors.
Izak Devlin
Instructor, 1st Dan
As a first-degree black belt instructor, Izak supports student development through structured training while maintaining his own martial arts progression within the club's ranking system.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialise in Sang Dan Tae Kwon Do, an ITF-affiliated style focusing on practical self-defence techniques and traditional patterns.
Are there classes for complete beginners?
Yes, we welcome absolute beginners. New members start with white belt training and progress through gradings as they develop skills.
What should I wear to my first class?
Come in comfortable exercise clothing you can move freely in. Bring a water bottle and arrive ready to train.
Do you offer trial classes?
Yes, we provide three free trial sessions so you can experience our training before committing to membership.
What are your training locations?
Regular classes are held at the UQ Sport Martial Arts Gym on Wednesdays and Fridays, with Sunday sessions in the Fitness Studio.
How experienced are your instructors?
Our senior instructors have decades of experience, with 2nd Dan black belts and extensive martial arts backgrounds including competition and teaching expertise.
Reviews (1)
Daniel Wilson
Oct 26, 2018
Report
A great club. Life changing, in fact. The style is not the bouncy competition style of TKD, but a well rounded, practical martial art. Strong focus on fitness and effective technique. Great people.
