about karate
“What you have been taught by listening to others’ words you will forget very quickly; what you have learned with your whole body you will remember for the rest of your life.”
— Gichin Funakoshi
what is karate?
Shotokan Karate is a weaponless martial art that is founded on the basic techniques of punching, striking, kicking and blocking, yet there is a deeper aspect to serious Karate training which deals with character development.
Shotokan Karate is a way for an individual to realize greater potential and expand the limits of that individual’s physical and mental capabilities. Karate in an excellent, time-proven method of personal development.
Our dojo is a member of the International Shotokan Karate Federation (ISKF), a non-profit organization whose mission is to spread traditional Japanese karate through exceptional instruction. Learn more……
Dojo kun
Dojo Kun means “ethics of the dojo”. The dojo is the training center for Shotokan Karate.
Seek perfection of character
Be faithful
Endeavor to excel
Respect others
Refrain from violent behavior
Karate means “empty hand”, and Karate-do translates to “the way of Karate”.
Shotokan Karate is a traditional Japanese Martial Art founded by Master Gichin Funakoshi. Shotokan Karate remains firmly rooted in a strong martial arts tradition, emphasizing lifetime training for a healthy mind and body, rather than strictly as a sport.
Benefits of Shotokan Karate
Teaches self defense
Enhances flexibility
Improves coordination and balance
Maximizes cardio-respiratory fitness
Promotes discipline
Expands physical and mental capabilities
Make a Change
Who can benefit from Shotokan Karate?
You! Even if you feel you are overweight, uncoordinated, inflexible, or lacking self confidence or self discipline, you may have the most to gain by training.
Of course, results should not be expected overnight, but if you train on a regular basis and stay with it, you will begin to see improvement. Nothing of real value is ever obtained with ease. All kinds of people benefit from Karate training. Men, women and children can be found at our dojo.
Voyageur Shotokan Karate is a wonderful place to train. The instructors are very helpful and are knowledgeable, and the workouts are challenging and fun. At Voyageur Shotokan Karate I feel like I am not just getting a great workout that helps my physical conditioning and coordination, but I’im also developing my mind and making new friends along the way. Coming to Voyageur Shotokan Karate is the highlight of my week!
“Shotokan Karate has been a great benefit to me as a whole, mentally, physically and emotionally. My journey to becoming Black Belt has shown what you can achieve with perseverance and dedication. I’ve enjoyed every level and met some amazing people along the way. I am still learning and growing and I look forward to continuing my journey within my Dojo with Sensei Dingman. Your journey will be amazing too.”
“Karate is a lot of fun. I really like the teachers and friends I make. The games we play are fun too!”