Martial arts are an extremely safe activity. Because of the way our program is taught, most situations that can cause injuries are entirely eliminated. In fact, many studies have shown that because of the emphasis on control, martial arts is one of the safest activities around. From the beginning to the end of the class, we keep a sharp eye on everything that goes on. Of course, like in any contact sport, occasional bumps and bruises are possible, but we work our hardest to make sure that they are very rare.

The answer is a definite yes. In fact, martial arts are exactly for these types of children. In organized sports like little league or soccer, much of the activity revolves around team performance and the rules of the game. Naturally, some children catch on quicker than others, leaving the less experienced kids to sit out. This creates a vicious cycle until eventually their self-esteem suffers and they don't feel like playing. In our martial arts program, every child is given individual attention and has the opportunity to shine in a variety of areas. Each child can comfortably progress at his or her own pace without feeling left out. We have a saying in our school: "There are absolutely no bench warmers in our family."

To put it simply, it is the most fun you can have in any physical activity, anywhere. If you watch one of our classes, you will see how our instructors are masters at blending education and entertainment. We camouflage what would normally be seen as hard work (like exercise) into playful, game-like movements. And it doesn't matter if it’s a child or adult program. All our classes are a blast, and everyone has the time of their life, but more than that, martial arts are inspiring and life-changing, from the mental to the physical. What could be more fun than that?

The benefits are too numerous to list them all, but a few common goals that people have when joining a martial arts program are:

• Learning self-defense skills
• Increased self-confidence & self-esteem
• Staying active & losing weight
• Improving strength and conditioning
• Increasing coordination & flexibility
• Improving mental focus & memory
• Harmony between mind, body, and spirit
• Internal strength & peace
• Managing stress through exercise
• Increased energy levels
• Learning progressively (in steps) in a structured and disciplined environment
• Earning a black belt. :D 

Martial arts is a whole-body workout that also challenges the mind and spirit. Whatever your goals are, we can help you meet and exceed them!

The answer to this one is absolutely yes! We have a good blend of girls and boys in our martial arts classes! Some people think that the boys are much more coordinated and capable. We throw all those stereotypes out with the garbage. Our girls are capable, tough, strong, and lethal warriors.

No way! In fact, martial arts make kids calmer and more respectful than ever. Martial arts have always been about peace, and they always will be.

People come to East-West Okinawan Karate at all fitness levels. We get natural-born athletes, and we get people who have not participated in athletic endeavors. However, everyone grows in skill as they progress in their practice of karate.