What you NEED to know about Karate.

The martial arts world is much varied and colorful. With many cultures having developed their own unique form of martial arts, the name game becomes too confusing and at times misleading. Among these arts however, one name tends to be much better known and more easily recognized. Karate (kara-teh), Japanese term meaning "empty hand", is the most commonly recognized, and yet misused name in the martial arts world. True karate is based on Japanese/Okinawan systems, and is divided into four major styles. These are Shotokan, Shito, Wado and Goju Ryus (or methods).

Karate has proven to be the most enduring and popular of all martial arts, due to the unique blend of techniques and movements ranging from kicking, punching and grappling, along with adaptability which allows for everyone to practice it well in to their senior years. These elements enhance the ability of the practitioner and provide a technical advantage over other forms of martial arts.

However, the general public has been mislead and misinformed for many years, with the inappropriate use of the term "Karate."

Many Korean and American martial arts schools misguide the public by using the word "Karate" in place of or in conjunction with their name. This of course is purely a marketing ploy, to take advantage of uninformed prospects. When in fact, they have no understanding of the intricacies of Japanese martial arts. The unsuspecting public is then intentionally mislead to committing to years of training in a mixed style that has neither authenticity, usefulness or purpose. The only goal of these schools is to defraud the public to their own financial benefit. 

The term "American Karate" or "Korean Karate" would be just as misleading as "Japanese Tae kwon do" , "Japanese Kung-fu." or "Brazilian Jujitsu" The fact is, none of these terms are correct or truthful.

Click here to learn more about the History of Karate

At Academy Of Karate we teach only the true & pure form of Karate, which originates from Okinawa and Japan. Our style of Karate is called Shotokan. 

Shotokan is practiced worldwide, and on many college campuses. It is one of only four styles of Karate recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). We are a proud member of the Japan Karate-do Maruyoshikai Organization (JKMO) and our schools are members of The United States of America National Karate-do Federation the National Governing Body (NGB) for karate, recognized by United State Olympic Committee (USOC).

Our children, and youth programs are based on Shotokan Karate, and adjusted to the age of the individual practitioner. While our Junior Karate program, is identical to our adult program. Originally, Okinawan /Japanese Karate was designed to be taught to adults, and rarely to children. However, due to the popularity of Karate with children, age appropriate classes and curriculum were designed. Learn more.

Our dedication is to the individual practitioner - child or adult- and to the society as a whole. Those who choose to follow our leadership, can count on friendship, loyalty, and dedication to their progress from each school, instructor, and other members.

The path of Karate is simple, and yet not an easy one. As with any worthwhile endeavor, it requires great courage to begin the journey, and substantial amount of effort, sacrifice, and perseverance to continue. The goal of improving one's self is not easy, nor should it be. But we are certain that anyone, young or old, regardless of their physical ability or disability, can take advantage of the teachings of karate, and the ultimate inner strength and tranquility that it entails.

Duarte: 2163 Huntington Dr. Duarte CA 91010  |  West Hills: 23739 Roscoe Blvd., West Hills, CA 91304