We teach self-defense focused Karatedo that is not only a beautiful martial art, but effective for self-defense in a way we can prove. But first, what really is Karatedo?

Karate is a martial art originating in Okinawa. It was designed for self-defense. Karatedo means 'the way of Karate.' Most practitioners alternate between the two words. We do as well, but we include the ‘do’ because it translates well to what we teach; That Karate teachings are applicable to many facets of life outside the dojo.

Okinawa (沖縄本島), or as it’s called in the native language of the islands, Uchinā, is the largest of a chain of Pacific islands. The island was important historically due to its value as a port halfway between China and the main Japanese islands. Okinawans used Karate as self-defense, and the art was later adapted as part of Japan’s cultural identity after WWII.

Carrying on the Uchinā tradition, the version of Karatedo we practice is also focused on self-defense. We teach through:

• Kata: a series of techniques you practice solo

• Kihon: fundamentals like stances and techniques

• Kumite: partner work (drills, pads, sparring, etc.)

Why don’t we only use sparring to learn self-defense? Why Kata?:

• The purpose of sparring is to land good hits. Kata often involves techniques that would be dangerous to use with a sparring partner, such as breaking an opponent’s arm. Don’t worry, we practice sparring as well and understand how vital it is to training.

• Kata is also about training your mind to execute complex movements without thought. This erases hesitation when executing complex movements in a real-life scenario.

When you join the class, we’re not going to throw you straight into bag work or very intense sparring. We will teach you basic blocks and attacks, our first kata, and light sparring. We know from experience that strong fundamentals are the key to truly advanced martial arts. The class will get harder as you grow and as we challenge you more.

In addition to these training tools, other things you can expect from our classes are: Warmup and stretching routines, breathing exercises, practicing realistic self-defense scenarios, and verbal class discussions about Karatedo and self-defense.