Business Details
24 Years
experience
Traditional Shotokan Karate Classes in Cincinnati, OH
Founded in 2002 by Kim and Jeff Weber, Shotokan Karate Of Anderson has established itself as a premier destination for traditional Shotokan karate training in Cincinnati, Ohio. Our certified instructors, recognized by the International Shotokan Karate Federation, bring decades of combined experience to youth and adult students seeking disciplined, structured martial arts education. We emphasize fundamental techniques, kata forms, sparring, and self-defense within a positive environment that fosters respect, confidence, and personal growth. Our instructors hold advanced ranks (up to 7th dan) and have achieved national/international recognition as competitors, judges, and examiners. With a lineage tracing back to Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of modern Shotokan karate, we maintain rigorous safety standards while offering accessible training for all skill levels.Our curriculum integrates scientifically sound warm-ups, controlled sparring, and character development principles that extend beyond the dojo. As active members of the ISKF Mid-America region, we participate in regional/national competitions and maintain affiliations with karate's historical traditions. Our facility at Anderson Hills Christian Church provides a welcoming space for community members to observe or try free introductory classes. Through personalized instruction and small-group training, we ensure individualized attention that accommodates diverse learning needs. Our commitment to martial arts excellence remains unwavering after two decades of service to Cincinnati's martial arts community.
Services
Youth Karate Classes
Adult Karate Classes
Sparring Training
Self-Defense Workshops
Kata Forms Instruction
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- Certified instructors with 7th dan black belts and international competition experience
- Structured curriculum combining fundamental techniques with self-defense applications
- Free introductory class for prospective students
- Small-group instruction ensuring personalized attention
- Established safety protocols with CPR/First Aid trained instructors
Associations and certifications
- International Shotokan Karate Federation
Services
Youth Karate Classes
Structured karate instruction for ages 8-16 develops motor skills, balance, and self-discipline through fundamental techniques (kihon), controlled sparring (kumite), and kata forms. Small-group instruction ensures personalized attention while emphasizing safety and character development in a fun, engaging environment.
Adult Karate Classes
Comprehensive Shotokan training for adults focuses on low stances, controlled techniques, and scientific warm-up/cool-down methods. Classes improve physical fitness while teaching self-defense applications and traditional karate principles in an environment honoring martial arts etiquette and discipline.
Sparring Training
Controlled sparring sessions develop practical self-defense skills through kumite practice. Instructors emphasize technique control, breathing, and response management while maintaining minimal contact. Training includes partner drills and scenario-based applications of kata movements.
Self-Defense Workshops
Specialized workshops focus on practical self-defense applications (bunkai) from traditional kata forms. Students learn situational awareness, de-escalation tactics, and physical defense techniques applicable to real-world scenarios while maintaining martial arts discipline and control.
Kata Forms Instruction
Comprehensive kata instruction covers basic to advanced sequences of movements (kihon) that preserve Shotokan karate's traditional techniques. Students learn proper form, breathing, and application of movements while progressing through standardized belt-ranking requirements.
People
Margaret Williams
Chief Instructor
5th degree black belt with 40+ years experience, certified ISKF/JKA instructor, former US Team Pool member, and UC Clermont College educator. Specializes in traditional Shotokan techniques and tournament judging.
Adam Piccirillo
Assistant Instructor
2nd degree black belt with 20+ years training, Mid-America team competitor, certified tournament judge, and licensed massage therapist. Focuses on physical/mental development through Shotokan karate.
Len Gordon
Instructor
4th degree black belt photographer with 30+ years experience. Returned to karate in 2003, earned black belt at 50, and emphasizes regional training benefits through competitive participation.
Caleb Horner
Assistant Instructor
2nd degree black belt national champion with 7+ years teaching experience. Combines karate training with cross country, track, and marching band activities while representing ISKF at national events.
Beverly Pugh
Assistant Instructor
3rd degree black belt with 20+ years experience, certified tournament judge, and former SKJF member. Focuses on physical/mental challenges that extend karate benefits beyond the dojo environment.
Questions
What age groups do you accept for karate classes?
We offer youth classes for ages 8-16 and adult classes for ages 16+. Advanced youth may join adult classes by invitation.
Are your instructors certified in Shotokan karate?
All instructors are certified by the International Shotokan Karate Federation with ranks from 2nd to 7th degree black belts.
Can I try a class before committing?
Yes, we offer free introductory classes for all prospective students to experience our training environment.
What should I wear for my first karate class?
Beginners can wear comfortable workout clothes. Traditional white gi uniforms are required for regular participants.
Do you offer self-defense training?
Yes, our curriculum includes practical self-defense applications (bunkai) derived from traditional kata forms.
Are there competitive opportunities available?
We participate in regional and national tournaments with instructors who have competed at world championship levels.
