About us / Instructors

Martial Arts ErinaMunen Muso Martial Arts Studio: Champion Training Since 1999

Located in Erina, NSW, Munen Muso Martial Arts Studio has been providing top-tier martial arts instruction since 1999. Led by Gary Johnson (Soke – 9th Dan) and Leanne Johnson (Kyoshi-Sama – 7th Dan), our experienced team of Master Instructors and expert staff are dedicated to producing champions in both martial arts and life.

At Martial Arts Erina, we offer a wide range of programs designed for physical fitness, self-defense, and Karate instruction. Our unique curriculum blends the best of traditional and modern martial arts philosophies, equipping students with essential self-defense skills for today’s ever-changing world.

As a proud member of the National Association of Professional Martial Artists, Australian Kung Fu (WuShu) Federation, and adhering to the Martial Arts Industry Code of Conduct, Munen Muso Martial Arts Studio is committed to upholding the highest standards in martial arts training.

Soke GARY JOHNSON

Grandmaster Gary Johnson JP (Soke – 9th Degree)

Founder and Head Instructor of Munen Muso Martial Arts

A Legacy of Excellence in Martial Arts
At 67 years young, Grandmaster Gary Johnson is a full-time martial arts master instructor and the Soke (Head) of the Munen Muso Martial Arts system. With a martial arts journey spanning over 50 years, Gary began training in 1973 in traditional karate and has since expanded his expertise across numerous disciplines. His dedication to martial arts and self-protection has led him to train under esteemed masters and Guro’s in Australia, Asia, and the United States.

In 1982, Gary developed the Munen Muso Martial Arts system, meaning “to act calmly and naturally in the face of danger,” a philosophy that underscores his teaching and leadership in self-defense training.

World-Class Martial Arts Expertise
Gary is one of Australia’s foremost authorities on self-protection and practical martial arts. He is:

  • A Government-Accredited Coach
  • An internationally recognized 9th Degree Black Belt
  • A 4th Degree Black Belt in Kyusho-Jitsu (Pressure Point Combat)

Over his career, Gary has trained police officers, corrective services staff, security personnel, government officials, corporate teams, and community groups in self-defense techniques. Additionally, he has taught self-protection to children, including those with physical and intellectual disabilities, through school programs and recreational initiatives.

His experience also includes high-profile security work, such as serving as a bodyguard for celebrities, including Sir Elton John, Boy George, and Jimmy Barnes.

Achievements and Accolades
Gary’s contributions to martial arts and his community have earned him recognition at both local and international levels. His achievements include:

  • World Record: Completed 4,000 karate kicks in under one hour during a fundraising event.
  • Martial Arts Supply Pioneer: Founded the first martial arts supply store on the NSW Central Coast (1986–1991).
  • Community Contributions: Raised significant funds for children’s cancer research, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), and the Stephen Sanig Meningococcal Foundation.
  • Awards and Recognition:
    • Federal Government Sports Encouragement Award (2000)
    • Finalist, Gosford City Australia Day Community Awards (2006)
    • Australia Day Nominee for dedication to martial arts (2011)
    • Lifetime Achievement Award and induction into the Australasian Martial Arts Hall of Fame and the World Karate Union Hall of Fame (2019)

Rank and Certifications:

  • 9th Degree Black Belt – Munen Muso Martial Arts
  • 7th Degree Black Belt – Kojosho Karate Federation
  • 4th Degree Black Belt – Kyusho-Jitsu
  • 3rd Degree Black Belt – Jujitsu
  • 3rd Degree Black Belt – Zen Do Kai
  • 1st Degree Black Belt – Lakani Arnis International Federation
  • 1st Degree Black Belt – Washin Kan Kenjutsu Federation
  • Former Defensive Tactics Instructor

A Respected Leader in Martial Arts
With over 50 years of experience, Gary Johnson is a highly respected figure in martial arts and self-defense. His passion for teaching, community involvement, and commitment to developing champions in both martial arts and life make him an inspirational leader.

Kyoshi-Sama Leanne Johnson

Leanne (Janvrin) Johnson – Kyoshi-Sama (7th Degree Black Belt)

Master Instructor | Government-Accredited Coach

Leanne Johnson, also known as Kyoshi-Sama, is a 7th Degree Black Belt and a master martial arts instructor with over 35 years of experience. Beginning her martial arts journey in 1987 with Budokan Karate of Australia, Leanne earned her Black Belt in 1994. Today, she is a full-time government-accredited martial arts coach, dedicating her life to training and inspiring students of all ages.

Leanne’s exceptional career has seen her achieve numerous accolades and represent Australia on both national and international stages.

Awards & Recognition

  • 2005: Recipient of the Australian Government Sports Achievement Award for her outstanding contributions and achievements in martial arts.
  • 2011: Australia Day Nominee for her dedication to developing local and state martial arts champions, earning recognition from Local Government and Canberra.

Competition Highlights

Leanne’s competitive career is nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing her mastery in Kata and dedication to excellence:

  • 1992: NSW State Champion (Synchronized Kata)
  • 1992: Australian National Champion (Synchronized Kata)
  • 1994: Gold Medalist in Kata, Oceania Karate Championships (Tahiti)
  • 1997: Gold Medalist in Kata, Oceania Karate Championships (Brisbane)
  • 1997: Represented Australia at the Women’s International Karate Cup (Tokyo), placing 14th among competitors from 27 countries.

Other Competitive Achievements in Kata

  • NSW State Championships: Gold Medalist in 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1998, and 1999
  • Australian National Championships: Bronze Medalist in 1997, 4th Place in 1994 and 1995
  • Australian Open Championships: Bronze Medalist in 1997, 4th Place in 1996 and 1998

A Legacy of Excellence

Leanne’s remarkable career in martial arts, combined with her husband Gary’s extensive experience, forms the foundation of a partnership committed to providing students with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities needed to reach their highest potential. Together, they foster an environment where aspiring martial artists can thrive and achieve their ultimate goals.

Sensei Nick WANGMANN

Nick Wangmann – Sensei (3rd Degree Black Belt)

Government-Accredited Coach

I’m Nicholas Wangmann, a 3rd-degree black belt in Munen Muso Martial Arts and a qualified personal trainer, dedicated to helping others achieve their fullest potential. My journey began in 2014, and since 2017, I’ve been coaching individuals to build strength, confidence, and discipline—both in the gym and on the mat.

Fitness, martial arts, and tricking have shaped my life, with competition being a key part of my growth. Since 2018, I’ve proudly competed with my synchronized kata team, securing 3 national championships and 1 world championship through ISKA. I’m also an extreme weapons state and national champion.

At Munen Muso, I have the privilege of coaching students of all ages—from young children to adults—helping them unlock their potential. Every class is tailored to the individual, whether they’re building a foundation or refining their advanced skills. Watching my students grow in both ability and mindset is one of my greatest rewards.

I am driven by a passion for constant growth, pushing my own limits, and inspiring others to do the same.

Together, Gary and Leanne have combined their extensive martial arts expertise to create Munen Muso, a comprehensive martial arts system that emphasizes “acting calmly and naturally in the face of danger.” Through this system, they have guided many students to Black Belt level and beyond. However, if traditional martial arts are not your interest, we offer a variety of programs including Boxing, Kickboxing, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Modern Martial Arts (Self-Defense), and Hyper Pro Training.