About the Philadelphia Shotokan Karate Dojo
Our dojo was founded in 1978 and it continues to be led by Joel Heller, a 2nd degree black belt student of Tsutomu Ohshima, founder of Shotokan Karate of America.
Our members enjoy a direct link to ancient masters of martial arts through Mr. Ohshima and his direct instructor, Gichin Funakoshi, founder of Shotokan Karate.
We strive to strengthen body, mind and spirit, perfect character, and faithfully transmit the art to future generations.
Benefits of Karate Practice
Karate can be practiced by everyone at any age for self-defense, to strengthen the entire body, improve balance, efficiency of movement, breathing and overall health. No special equipment is needed.
Karate helps to strengthen the mind, develop courage, fortitude, and the ability to achieve goals.
Karate practice emphasizes spiritual values of courtesy, integrity, humility, justice, honor, and self-control.
The study of karate benefits the student in all areas of their life.
Welcome Newcomers!
We are so glad that you are interested in joining Philadelphia Shotokan Karate Dojo.
Joining is easy – just visit any of our practices! There is no charge to observe or to practice with us once or twice. After that, if you decide to stay, you must join Shotokan Karate of America ($75 for the rest of this year) and then just pay minimal dojo dues at the beginning of each month. As a member of SKA you will be able to attend any SKA regional, national, and international event open to your rank, and you’ll be able to test for rank twice per year at no charge. Black belt testing is also free, but by invitation only. The minimum age is 18 for our classes at the Philadelphia Shotokan Karate Dojo.
To win one hundred victories in one hundred battles is not the highest skill. To subdue the enemy without fighting is the highest skill.” – Master Gichin Funakoshi
Shotokan Karate Practices – adults age 18 and over are welcome to join us to practice the best martial arts and self defense ! In addition to in person classes, ZOOM virtual practices are also available for SKA members by senior black belts across the USA.
