Business Details
31 Years
experience
Empowering Children Through Gozen Karate
Founded by martial arts pioneer Dawn Barnes over 28 years ago, our school specializes in Gozen Karate - the world's first martial arts style specifically designed for children. Our program develops essential life skills through age-appropriate karate instruction, focusing on respect, patience, and focus. With multiple locations across Los Angeles, we serve students from preschool age through adulthood, offering structured belt progression systems and character development programs.Our experienced instructors create safe, encouraging environments where children build self-confidence, social skills, and physical coordination. Recognized by LA Daily News and LA Parent as the region's premier children's martial arts program, we maintain a strong commitment to community values and family-oriented instruction.
Services
Tiger Tots
Lions Program
Dragons Program
Adult Karate
Private Classes
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- We offer age-specific programs developed by a pioneering children's martial arts expert
- Our Gozen Karate system focuses on character development alongside physical skills
- Multiple LA locations provide accessible, safe learning environments for families
- Proven track record of student success with structured belt progression systems
- Instructors emphasize respect, patience, and positive reinforcement in every class
What people say
Excellent staff
Confidence growth
Positive environment
Structured progression
Family-friendly
Services
Tiger Tots
Our Tiger Tots program develops motor skills and self-control for children aged 3-5. Through playful karate instruction, students build social skills while earning patches and belts. The curriculum focuses on foundational movements in a nurturing environment that encourages goal achievement through structured progression.
Lions Program
Designed for 5-6 year olds, the Lions program teaches playground-appropriate self-defense while developing listening skills. Students progress through belt ranks while learning respect and goal-setting in a safe, engaging format that balances fun with discipline.
Dragons Program
The Dragons program challenges students aged 7-12 with 12 belt ranks and grappling techniques. Our Black Belt Club recognizes dedicated students, offering leadership opportunities and special achievements while maintaining focus on patience and respect in all aspects of life.
Adult Karate
Adult classes provide challenging workouts combining physical fitness with practical self-defense skills. Participants develop discipline and confidence through traditional karate techniques adapted for adult learners, creating a supportive environment for personal growth and physical development.
Private Classes
Custom private group sessions accommodate special needs including homeschool groups, scout troops, and family classes. These sessions focus on physical fitness, self-defense, and character development while maintaining our core values of respect and discipline in tailored learning environments.
Questions
Is karate safe for children?
Yes, our Gozen Karate system uses controlled techniques in a structured environment with trained instructors prioritizing student safety.
Will karate make my child aggressive?
No, we emphasize self-control and conflict avoidance while teaching defensive techniques for emergency situations.
How do you handle different age groups?
We offer specialized programs for ages 3-5 (Tiger Tots), 5-6 (Lions), 7-12 (Dragons), and adult classes.
Do you offer trial classes?
Yes, we provide free trial classes to help families experience our program before committing.
What character values do you teach?
Our curriculum emphasizes respect, patience, focus, discipline, and self-confidence through structured martial arts training.
Are belt promotions included in tuition?
Belt tests are separate from regular tuition but represent important milestones in our structured progression system.
