Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Award-Winning Martial Arts Training for All Ages in St. Petersburg
Founded in 1969, Kinney Karate has evolved into a globally respected martial arts system blending Tang Soo Do, Jujitsu, Aikido, and Modern Arnis under the guidance of certified Black Belt instructors. Our philosophy emphasizes individualized training paths, allowing students to progress at their own pace while mastering disciplines like Krav Maga, Kempo, and Shotokan. With five locations in St. Petersburg, Florida, we offer co-ed classes for ages five through senior adults, focusing on character development, self-defense, and physical fitness. Our instructors combine technical expertise with adaptive teaching methods to ensure effective communication of goals and expectations.We prioritize modern convenience through flexible monthly tuition, no contracts, and accessible entry points for new students. The curriculum integrates traditional martial arts values with contemporary training techniques, fostering respect, discipline, and social skills. Special events like summer camps and tournaments provide additional growth opportunities, while strict safety protocols ensure high-quality sparring gear usage. Over five decades of experience position us as leaders in personalized martial arts education.
Services
Karate Classes
Jujitsu Training
Aikido Instruction
Modern Arnis
Self-Defense Courses
Summer Camp
Tournaments
Sparring Training
Character Development
Belt Testing
Details
- Year established: 1969
Highlights and features
- Founded in 1969 with globally recognized martial arts expertise
- Certified Black Belt instructors trained in adaptive teaching methods
- Flexible monthly tuition with no contractual obligations
- Co-ed classes for ages 5 through senior adults
- Integrated curriculum combining 6 martial arts disciplines
Services
Karate Classes
Our Karate program develops physical fitness, self-discipline, and self-defense skills through traditional Tang Soo Do techniques. Students learn forms, strikes, and sparring methods while progressing at their own pace. Certified instructors adapt training to individual goals, making this accessible for ages five through senior adults.
Jujitsu Training
Jujitsu instruction focuses on practical self-defense techniques using joint locks and throws. The curriculum emphasizes real-world applications while maintaining martial arts traditions. Students develop situational awareness and defensive strategies applicable across all age groups and experience levels.
Aikido Instruction
Aikido classes teach fluid movements and defensive techniques that redirect opponents' energy. This discipline promotes mental focus and physical coordination through circular motions and controlled throws. The practice benefits students seeking non-aggressive conflict resolution methods.
Modern Arnis
Modern Arnis training combines empty-hand techniques with stick and weapon defense. Students learn practical applications for personal protection while developing hand-eye coordination. This Filipino martial art integrates well with other disciplines in our blended curriculum.
Belt Testing
Monthly belt exams assess students' progress through standardized requirements. Testing evaluates technical proficiency, discipline, and understanding of martial arts principles. The $35 exam fee includes rank certification and recognition of individual achievements.
People
Susan Serota
Soke
As Soke, Susan Serota oversees curriculum development and instructor training, ensuring martial arts traditions are preserved while maintaining modern relevance through adaptive teaching methods.
Seth Koehler
Grandmaster
Grandmaster Seth Koehler brings decades of martial arts expertise, specializing in blending traditional disciplines with contemporary training techniques to enhance student progression and technical mastery.
Richard Serota
Senior Master Instructor
Senior Master Instructor Richard Serota focuses on instructor certification programs, maintaining high teaching standards across all locations while emphasizing character development through martial arts training.
Jackie Prats
Master Instructor
Master Instructor Jackie Prats specializes in youth programs, developing age-appropriate curricula that build confidence and discipline while ensuring safe, engaging martial arts instruction.
Stavro Liginos
Master Instructor
Master Instructor Stavro Liginos oversees sparring training programs, implementing safety protocols and quality control for protective gear used during practical self-defense applications.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We offer Karate (Tang Soo Do), Jujitsu, Aikido, Modern Arnis, and practical self-defense techniques blended with elements of Krav Maga, Kempo, and Shotokan.
Are there age requirements for classes?
Classes start at age 5 with programs available for teens, adults, and senior citizens through flexible scheduling options.
What equipment do I need to start?
Beginners need loose-fitting clothing. Uniforms become required after initial classes, with sparring gear needed at green belt level.
How does belt progression work?
Testing occurs monthly based on individual readiness. Students advance at their own pace through demonstrated technical proficiency and understanding of martial arts principles.
Do you offer special events?
Yes, we host annual summer camps, picnics, lock-in training sessions, and intramural tournaments for additional skill development and community building.
What are your payment terms?
Monthly tuition with no contracts. Recreation center classes are paid to the City of St. Petersburg; dojo classes through Balance Martial Arts.
