We study the classical Okinawan Matsubayashi-Ryu style of Shorin-Ryu karate.

Why join us? KARATE TEACHES LIFE SKILLS. The list is endless, but here are a few life skills students of all ages can learn in a Martial Arts program:

LEARN HOW TO AVOID CONFLICT Every part of Karate is for self-defense only. Students learn practical strategies for avoiding/diffusing confrontations; if they do have to defend themselves, they’ll know how to without actually hurting the person as well. By becoming more balanced physically and mentally we’re training in how not to fight. Karate is not about the power of the punch; it’s about the power of the person.

EXERCISE Everyone is interested in being active, but isn’t necessarily attracted to the usual exercise classes or sports leagues. Karate gets you moving in a different way and challenges you on many levels. Anyone can participate in Martial Arts if they are willing to listen, learn, train and grow! The main thing is: have fun!

SELF-DISCIPLINE It’s not just about giving discipline, it’s about learning how to become self-disciplined. You don’t just do as you’re told; you do the right thing without being told. This behavior goes beyond training into home, school/work, and social situations. The goal is to achieve balance in all aspects of our lives.

Focus Martial Arts requires the utmost focus and concentration. Karate students learn better, stay more focused, and learn how to relax. However, Martial Arts training should be seen as long-term and it can be intense; it takes many years of focus, training, and discipline to become a true black belt.

SELF-CONFIDENCE Martial Arts gives students goals to work toward. One of the biggies of course is black belt, but there are many goals every step of the way. Only patience, discipline and hard work can produce the results a Karate student wants. By honestly facing personal weaknesses and overcoming obstacles, we become stronger physically, mentally, and spiritually. This in turn produces self-confidence, improving our outlook and how we behave in our daily lives. A truly self-confident (or ‘centered’) person is secure enough to treat other people fairly, openly, and with respect.

RESPECT A core principle of Karate is respecting one another and ourselves. We honor our instructors and classmates by showing respect. We gain respect for ourselves and from others by working hard to improve.

Here’s what some current Karate Club students have to say:

--My children are learning to focus on difficult tasks and are gaining self-confidence as they achieve success. This has increased their confidence and self-esteem!

   --I used to feel awkward and uncoordinated during exercise of any kind. Now I’m actually
  having fun! Since starting Karate I’ve lost weight, have more energy and I feel GREAT! It’s a terrific way
  to work off stress and I’m learning how to relax and be comfortable in my body.

  --For me, Karate isn’t an activity where you show up on Saturday and forget about it for a week.
  This constant challenge has taught me to never give up but keep working at it until you get it.
  This is great for my self-confidence.

--Karate’s more than a workout, it’s a new way of thinking that’s changed my outlook and opened me to a whole new side of myself – I love it!

A key concept is “Karate ni sente nashi (There is no first attack in karate)” Our goal is to improve ourselves, empower each other, and have fun! Our Karate Club meets every Saturday morning, year-round. The only charge is a small fee at the time of semi-annual testing. The suggested minimum age is 7 years old. The essence of Karate is restraint, consideration, and respect for the dignity of human life. I hope you will join us and, like me, experience the benefits of Martial Arts.

Sensei Bob Kienle

Osensei Shoshine Nagamine, founder of the Matsubayashi-ryu style of Shorin-Ryu Karate