Gorleston martial arts master celebrates 50 years of kung fu

In 1973, Bruce Lee's Enter the Dragon debuted on the big screen and instilled a passion for martial arts in many people. 

That same year, Johnny Johnson began training under the renowned Barry Theobald at the Old Meeting Unitarian Church on Yarmouth Way.

Johnny Johnson's martial arts license (address has been obscured). Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)

Now, Mr Johnson - who was awarded the rare title of si-jo (founder of style) for his commitment to Chinese kempo gung fu in 2021 - is still in love with martial arts and remains dedicated to passing on his knowledge to students at the Lowestoft Martial Arts Centre on Commercial Road.

"It's a lifestyle that has benefitted me greatly," Mr Johnson, 67, said.

"I remain very healthy and it still works for me.

"I'm realising more of the benefits the older I get."

(L-R) Instructors Steven Garrod, Scott Calver, Robert Dixon, Johnny Johnson, Kevin Gunton, Lexi McLellan, Stephen Garrood and Mark Owers outside Lowestoft Martial Arts Centre on Commercial Road. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)

Lowestoft Martial Arts Centre has been open for two years and also offers classes in shotokan karate, jujitsu and laijitsu (sword technique).

Leaseholder and ju jitsu teacher Kevin Gunton said he aims to make the centre a positive part of the community.

“We want to grow and get as many people involved as possible," Mr Gunton said.

"We want to get kids off the streets and out of trouble, and give them something to really get into."

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE: The instructors of Lowestoft Martial Arts Centre on Commercial Road. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)

Mr Gunton said he currently has around 50 young students in his classes, and there are many spaces still available with him and the other instructors.

"We take in everyone from four years old to 99, and we champion community spirit," Mr Gunton added.

READ MORE: 'Calm, graceful and kind': Tributes paid to martial arts world champion

Lowestoft Martial Arts Centre currently offers classes in four different disciplines over two floors. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)
In the coming months, the centre is organising family fun days, as well as a seminar with an expert in the Israeli martial art krav maga.

Mr Johnson continues to teach adult classes at the centre. In the run-up to his next milestone - 50 years of teaching - he remains open to passing on his half-century of experience to new students.

For more information, call Kevin Gunton on 07935 927048.