New York Karate Dojo - Medford, New York

Cristian W.

I started training at this dojo around 2012, and I continue to train here as full black belt. I can 100% recommend this dojo.

The thing that stood and continues to stand out the most to me about this dojo are the instructors/Sensei’s, who make it welcoming. They make it feel like you’re joining a family rather than the simplicity of other dojos that favor their main students.

While doing so, they also manage to keep it real, if you need work, they will tell you that you need work and will help you in every way possible. There is a barrier of friendliness and seriousness needed for a successful dojo, and here it achieves the perfect amount of both. The training, workouts, stretching, katas, weapons training, sparring/fighting.. all done in a positive and easily learnable way while keeping that intensity that makes it a dojo. I can assure you after 1 class you or your kid will already feel like they are a karate master.

This dojo also hosts fun events/parties around holidays or even just as simple as a movie night. (obviously mainly for the younger students.) But if you are older and interested, there are still events to attend like beach workouts.

The more serious events are the belt tests. After your efforts, you will receive a stripe after finishing requirements. Once you reach 3 stripes on your belt, it means your child is ready for their next belt. These belt tests are their own separate events for the entire family to watch and cheer on. This proceeds until black belt, which continues to different ranks in black belt all the way to a Sensei.

Might sound complicated but it isn't, it’s a great experience that you or your kid should definitely take part of.

They also include the Japanese culture, words, names of Sensei’s, blocks, and etc. Plus once you are advanced in this dojo, you have the opportunity to take a trip to Okinawa, Japan. Here you get to meet the Sensei’s that taught the instructors of this dojo, and embrace yourself in the real culture of karate.

I could go on forever about things in this specific dojo but I wouldn’t want you reading forever. The rest is for you to find out, even comes with 1 free class for you to decide. I definitely recommend you come check out this dojo, you won’t be disappointed.

Robert R.

The best Traditional Karate Dojo on Long Island. Teaches Discipline, Respect and Perseverance. Gives the kids a great work ethic and awesome character.

Cheryl C.

My 4 year old daughter has been wanting to try Karate, So in passing I stopped in and was offered a free trial class. Needless to say the Parents were all very friendly, The instructor had the patience of a saint with my daughter as 1 of the youngest in the class. We will be returning, my daughter was very Happy.

Daniel S.

Great Dojo with passionate students and teachers that care about the art of traditional Okinawan karate, with an emphasis on its history, including development of the mental discipline and physical skills and benefits integral to the study of karate, and of course learning practical self defense applications. If you are looking for a place with a great community where you or your child can develop their physical skills, confidence, and/or mental toughness and hone life long skills along with building friendships and connections, then this is the place for you!

Joe I.

I started the adult classes here as a beginner about 5 months ago. Before the details I'll start off by saying I would definitely recommend this dojo to family/friends. They offer a free class to give it a try and ask questions before signing up.

It all starts with Sensei Robert with the help of the instructors/advanced students who trained under him. They have been patiently teaching me traditional karate with an emphasis on the practice of kata among other training techniques such as kumite, etc. Sensei Robert is very detailed about each move in a particular kata and will teach how they apply in a real fight. He will also mix in the history of karate as well as the Japanese terms for all the moves and stances. This helps you be ready to go to the birthplace of karate, Okinawa, Japan. A trip is set up every year, and if you choose to go, you get an opportunity to train with the Sensei that trained him which is a pretty cool feature that I think makes this dojo stand out from others. There are also other local events held through out the year to get that sense of community. On top of all of that, there are sparring sessions if you choose to participate which you can start at any time, and weapons training for more advanced students.

The atmosphere of the dojo is just the right mix of fun and intensity. The karate based workouts and stretching along side the actual karate techniques have helped me get in the best shape of my life at the age 41. For me personally, its a great complement to a traditional strength training workout routine. All in all, 5 stars all the way.

Diane C.

New York Karate Dojo in Medford NY is one of only a few Traditional Okinawan Karate Schools on Long Island. Sensei (Teacher) Robert Rowley teaches Okinawan Shorin-Ryu Karate from Okinawa the true birthplace of Karate. My Daughter is a student at the New York Karate Dojo and she Loves it and looks forward to every class with Sensei Rowley. She is so motivated and enthusiastic about her Karate training at the Dojo. She is not only learning Self Protection she is learning History and traditions of Okinawan Karate a Historical and Cultural treasure. Sensei Rowley teaches every class himself with over 35 years experience and regular trips to Okinawa every class at the New York Dojo is the best Karate training you can find.

Catherine H.

Sensei Rowley is absolutely wonderful with all kids and adults. He instills self confidence, self defense, and health and wellness. All of the Instructors give 100% of themselves to see a child/self thrive. It is a family friendly Dojo where you become more like family than just a student. I highly recommend New York Dojo!!!!!!

Mandi D.

My son has been a student since he was 5. Now at 11, he is a junior black belt. The Sensei’s are mentors and care for their students whole heartedly. Every lesson is delivered with not only technique and reasoning, but doses of humor. It is a true family atmosphere as we have made friendships that will last forever. No matter what age, it is an amazing dojo.