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Karate Teacher: No Experience Necessary

Do you know what qualifications an instructor needs to teach a highly complex and potentially dangerous Martial Art?

With 30+ years as a professional Karate Instructor, I know many highly skilled and tremendously capable Martial Arts instructors. Having said that: I also know some people who have very “successful” Martial Arts Schools who have no qualifications or skill in their chosen profession. If you wanted to teach the alphabet to preschoolers you would need to take courses in pedagogical learning, early childhood development, curriculum design, etc. The Commonwealth would compel you to take a test in order to be licensed. All that so you can teach the Alphabet!

Do you know what qualifications an instructor needs to teach a highly complex and potentially dangerous Martial Art?

NONE!

No state licensure, no courses in how to teach, nothing but a Black Belt bestowed by other Black Belts who may not be teachers either. Let me make sure you understand. Embroidered Belts, Trophy’s in the window, Gimmicky character-building programs that you can buy on the internet do not make ANYONE qualified to teach ANYTHING!

We pride ourselves on extensive study in the martial arts (This is Steve’s 42nd year and he has never missed even one day of practice) and continuing education on exercise physiology, nutrition, teaching methods, and learning modalities. We are experienced educators in traditional classrooms at the elementary through college level – and we are studied in cognitive development from kids through adults.

We are confident that we are the best at what we do.

Choosing the Right Martial Arts Program

Martial Arts training is more than just a sport or self-defense. It's a way of life that boasts proud traditions, deep history, and a well-deserved reputation for changing people's lives. Yet, more and more, I see parents reducing their school choice to one thing, "How Much does it cost?"

We humbly submit that this is the wrong question to ask.

Ask, "How much is it worth"?

Enrolling in a Martial Arts school is the beginning of a long journey. A powerful journey of growth and self-discovery

We have some students who have been with us for decades!

So before enrolling in a Martial Arts school, there are some things you should consider:

What to look for?

• Does the instructor teach? (Do people seem to be "acting " like a teacher rather than expanding student knowledge and ability?)

• Does the interaction with students seem "scripted" instead of genuine? (you can buy those scripts online)

• Do they show an interest in each student and inspire them? (Is the school all high fives and forced smiles but no real connection with students?)

• Is there a fun, engaging curriculum that teaches physical, mental, and emotional skills? (Do they have a strategy to teach these soft skills, or is it just a mysterious "Part of the Art")

• Is there a sense of excitement among students at the school? Can you feel a sense of community? (Or is it just a boot camp to impress parents with discipline?)

• Does the instructor seem skilled at the art they teach? (Fun game: Ask the instructor to show you their favorite form. Many instructors will demonstrate a move or two in front of students or parents. I'll let you decide why).

How prepared is the teacher to do their job?

Hanshi Steve is a graduate of a Teaching Fellowship taught by instructors from Harvard's Graduate School of Education, Tufts University, and MIT. He spent 14 years as a classroom teacher and won awards for curriculum development. In addition, he has over 35 years of experience as a professional Martial Arts Instructor.

Is the instructor respected and admired by their peers?

Steve is the Uechi Ryu International Karate Association president and is highly regarded in the martial arts community locally and worldwide. Additionally, he is a much sought-after presenter at Martial Art Camps and Gatherings.

Hanshi Steve is the youngest person to be awarded a 9th-degree black Belt by the Uechi Ryu International Karate Association.

Is the school upfront about the actual costs?

It's common in the Martial Arts Industry for school owners to pitch a low monthly tuition cost only to sneak in many other charges that aren't apparent when you first enroll. Belt fees, Promotion Fees, special equipment you must buy to participate in special classes that you also must buy over and above your "low" monthly tuition.

We don't do business that way.

We charge a reasonable monthly tuition and that's it, no test fees, no mat fees, no hidden costs.

Simply, The Best

At The Dojo, we believe we have built the best environment, curriculum, and culture of any martial arts school. And we're constantly improving it.

Whatever the price tag is, no one gives you more for your tuition dollar than we do.

So, the question is not "how much does it cost?" but "how much is it worth?"

Try Our 2 Week VIP Trial to find out.

DEVELOP DISCIPLINE AND LEADERSHIP IN OUR

FITNESS AND SELF DEFENSE CLASSES

Our programs combines a self-defense curriculum along with a rigorous workout designed to :

Increase your confidence.

Improves behaviour.

Sets goals & helps achieve them.

Build cardiovascular endurance.

Help keep you safe from real-world dangers.

TESTIMONIALS

SUCCESSFUL STORIES

My son Cameron started at The Dojo in October and I can’t say enough about the amazing experience he has had in these 3 months! Cameron’s confidence level has improved tremendously, he can focus on what is asked of him and he is having fun!!! He started off attending once a week and now he comes to all the classes and even goes early to help be a positive role model for the younger children! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND The Dojo! You won’t be disappointed!

-Kathy Paris

Steve DiOrio is a fantastic teacher who has integrated all of the martial arts knowledge he has accumulated over the years into effective training. He makes his classes fun while you learn more than you thought you could in an hour. If you are looking for the best teacher around, you have found him!

-Dr. Janine Pulley

We as parents decided to have our daughter try karate. After meeting with Steve we decided his teaching style, skills and experience would be the best fit. Not only has my daughter gained extensive karate skills but most importantly she has gained self confidence. She is well equipped to stick up for herself in any situation and has the confidence that she can defend herself if she needed. I am forever grateful to The Dojo!