Karate is a Japanese word meaning "empty" (Kara) and "hand" (te). It is a system of attack and defense that uses all parts of the body (hands, feet, elbows, fingers, etc.) to kick, punch, chop, butt or any other move that is effective in defending yourself. Many of the movements have been analyzed and geometrically calculated so that whatever the action, a block or a punch, it is the maximum the human body can achieve. One quickly learns that it is not the size and strength alone that win, rather speed and knowledge that are the deciding factors in who will emerge victorious in physical combat.

Karate-style fighting has been traced to the monks and priests of China, India, and Tibet. These men took time to refine and codify ways of self-defense into a skillful and efficient Art. From China, it crossed into Okinawa where it was known as "Te" and consisted mainly of hand movements. In 1922, "Okinawa Te" was introduced into Japan by Masters Mabuni and Funakoshi. Many of our military servicemen stationed throughout the world, especially in Japan and other Far East nations, brought back many different systems to the United States. The largest of these systems is the Japanese system. Come Join Us!

True Karate is a physical Art, a technique of self-defense and a sport. One of its greatest attributes is that anyone, irrespective of size, age, or gender can practice this Art. Your degree of skill, of course, depends on these factors. However, one can practice Karate according to their own capabilities. You compete against yourself and at your own pace. In fact, this is an art the whole family can participate in together. So tell your family and friends to join you in class and it will be that much more fun.