Business Details
30 Years
experience
Your Trusted Karate Dojo in Cresskill, NJ
Since 1996, Tenafly Shukokai Karate has been dedicated to teaching the art of Shukokai Karate, a discipline rooted in centuries-old Okinawan tradition. Founded by Shihan Gavin Armstrong, a 7th Dan black belt and protg of the legendary Shigeru Kimura, we emphasize not just physical mastery but the development of character through principles like respect, effort, and self-control. Our instructors, trained directly under Kimura, preserve his innovative techniques while adapting teachings to modern needs.We offer a welcoming environment where students of all agesfrom children to seniorslearn to harness body mechanics for both martial arts proficiency and everyday life. With amenities like cycling classes and boutique fitness, we combine traditional karate with holistic wellness, fostering a community where discipline and personal growth thrive.
Services
Karate Classes
Private Training
Cycling Classes
Boutique Fitness
Dojo Store
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of combined experience in Shukokai Karate under direct students of Shigeru Kimura.
- Our curriculum integrates traditional discipline with modern fitness for holistic personal development.
- Family-friendly environment with classes for ages 5 to adult, fostering intergenerational growth.
- Unique focus on body mechanics applicable to sports and daily life beyond martial arts.
- Proven track record of training competitive national and international tournament champions.
What people say
Family-friendly environment
Improved discipline
Lifelong character development
Experienced instructors
Practical self-defense
Services
Karate Classes
Traditional Shukokai Karate training for ages 5+ focusing on discipline, self-defense, and body mechanics. Classes emphasize Kimura's philosophy of control and efficiency, with techniques applicable to daily life. Students progress through belt ranks while building confidence and physical fitness in a family-friendly environment.
Private Training
Customized in-home or office instruction with Chief Instructor Shihan Gavin Armstrong. Tailored programs develop advanced techniques and personalized goals. Combines Shukokai principles with individual needs, offering flexible scheduling for busy professionals and families seeking accelerated progress in a private setting.
Cycling Classes
High-intensity indoor cycling sessions integrated with martial arts conditioning. Combines cardiovascular training with core strength development. Complements karate practice by improving endurance and mental focus, available to members as part of the holistic wellness approach at our Tenafly facility.
People
Shihan Gavin Armstrong
Chief Instructor
7th Dan black belt with 40+ years experience, trained directly under Shigeru Kimura since 1981. Managed Kimura's World Headquarters from 1992-1995 and has competed internationally, earning multiple tournament titles. Teaches traditional Shukokai Karate while adapting techniques for modern applications.
Linda Armstrong
Instructor
Certified instructor with decades of experience teaching all age groups. Trained under Shigeru Kimura and Shihan Gavin Armstrong, specializing in children's programs and technical precision. Focuses on creating a supportive environment for beginners while maintaining rigorous standards for advanced students.
Questions
What karate style do you teach?
We specialize in Shukokai Karate, a style developed by Shigeru Kimura that emphasizes efficient body mechanics and powerful techniques.
Are there family discounts available?
Yes, we offer discounted pricing for multiple family members enrolled simultaneously in our karate programs.
Do you offer private training sessions?
Private in-home training is available with Chief Instructor Shihan Gavin Armstrong for personalized instruction.
What age groups do you accommodate?
We teach students aged 5 through adult, with specialized programs adapting techniques for different developmental stages.
Are there additional fitness options?
Yes, our facility includes cycling classes and boutique fitness training alongside traditional karate instruction.
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