Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Shotokan Karate School in Uniontown, PA
Founded in 1963, Uniontown Karate Club has been dedicated to teaching traditional Shotokan karate in Fayette County for over six decades. Our instructors, directly connected to Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of modern karate, emphasize physical, mental, and spiritual development through rigorous training. We offer structured classes for all ages, combining kihon, kata, and kumite, while maintaining a facility equipped with modern training tools.Our mission is to foster discipline, confidence, and inner harmony, rooted in the philosophy of Shotokan Karate-Do. With a legacy recognized by the Herald Standard Community Choice Awards, we continue to serve the community from our newly renovated location at 66 Ash Road.
Services
Shotokan Karate Classes
Beginner Training
Family Plans
Adult Karate
Youth Programs
Details
- Year established: 1963
Highlights and features
- 60+ years of traditional Shotokan karate instruction in Fayette County
- ISKF-certified instructors with direct lineage to Gichin Funakoshi
- Family-friendly environment with beginner-friendly training programs
- Award-winning community recognition from Herald Standard
- Modern facility with dedicated tatami training spaces
Associations and certifications
- ISKF
What people say
Experienced instructors
Family-friendly environment
Effective traditional instruction
Community recognition
Well-structured classes
Services
Shotokan Karate Classes
Traditional Shotokan karate instruction combining kihon, kata, and kumite. Classes emphasize physical fitness, mental discipline, and martial arts philosophy. Suitable for all ages with separate beginner sessions.
Youth Karate Programs
Structured karate training for children aged 8+. Focuses on coordination, discipline, and confidence-building. Separate beginner classes ensure safe progression for young students.
Adult Karate Training
Comprehensive karate instruction for adults. Combines aerobic exercise with technical skill development. Promotes stress relief, physical fitness, and self-defense capabilities.
Beginner Karate Courses
Foundational karate training for new students. Covers basic techniques, etiquette, and physical conditioning. Optional uniform policy for first three months supports accessible entry.
Family Karate Plans
Multi-member karate packages for families. Encourages shared learning experiences while maintaining individualized instruction. Builds family bonds through traditional martial arts practice.
People
James E. Umbel
Owner/Chief Instructor
Practicing since 1978, James Umbel became owner in 1986. Holds 5th-degree black belt from ISKF. Dedicated to preserving traditional Shotokan karate principles.
Robert L. Colgan
Senior Instructor
Training since 1999, Robert Colgan earned 2nd-degree black belt in 2014. Specializes in technical precision and student mentorship within ISKF standards.
Mike Wilson
Senior Instructor
Started training in 2006, Mike Wilson achieved 2nd-degree black belt in 2015. Focuses on practical application of Shotokan techniques and student progression.
Philip Verbus
Senior Instructor
Training since 1980, Philip Verbus earned 1st-degree black belt in 2002. Emphasizes traditional karate philosophy and technical fundamentals in instruction.
Questions
What are the benefits of practicing karate?
Karate improves strength, coordination, stamina, balance, and flexibility while enhancing mental discipline, confidence, and willpower through traditional training methods.
What should beginners wear for classes?
Beginners can wear light exercise clothing; uniforms (gi) are optional during the first three months of training.
What age can children start karate?
Children must be at least 8 years old to join, with 10 being the optimal starting age for most students.
How often should students practice?
Beginners should attend at least twice weekly, with three times weekly recommended for optimal progress and skill development.
What makes ISKF schools unique?
ISKF schools maintain standardized global ranking systems, certified instructors, and access to international training seminars with world-class karate experts.
Is prior martial arts experience required?
No prior experience is needed; most new members start with no previous martial arts background.
