Okinawa Dojo by Karate Bros

The Karate Bros dojo maintains the highest of standards. What sets them apart from other dojos I've seen is the level of discipline in their students. It is evident with them that karate is a way of life. The actual lessons may start as soon as a student steps on the mat, but they do not end there. As a parent, I often have to sit in the waiting room before and after my son's lessons. As the more experienced students enter (whose ages range from pre-kindergarten to full grown adults) I see a strong level of camaraderie and respect. Between these students, even a greeting is a ritual and it's obvious this extends beyond the front door of the dojo. The lessons taught here seem more like an infusion of ideals directly into a student's core. The students are confident and respectful without effort. While this may or may not be said of all dojos, Okinawa Dojo sets itself apart as its students always seem more disciplined and attentive at all the competitions and tournaments I've been to thus far. They truly do maintain a higher standard. Some personal experiences to note: When I first had my younger son try out, he wasn't ready and the experience intense to the point that I had to take him home crying. A couple of weeks later we tried again with much better results. The experience flip-flopped several times but now the visits are routine. The kids who perform well are showered with compliments. The kids who are goofing off are called out. And the inexperienced are patiently welcomed and encouraged. [Update 09-26-2022] It's amazing to see the progress made among the younger kids. Every student I've seen who started from pre-karate and are still in the class have transformed. I'm not exaggerating. Every student who's stuck with the class have changed. They're mature, confident, controlled and respectful. Since my initial review, they've moved to a new location just off of Hampden and I25 right across the street from McDonalds. I've joined my kids at this dojo. The adult classes range from students who've never taken a martial arts class in their life, to 2nd degree black belts. I'll say this, don't worry about getting hit, sparring is almost all reserved for the competition class which I recommend but not at first. Regular adult classes are a great way to get in shape. These classes focus on the basics, forms, stances and Katas. For myself, I've joined because it's something I've always wanted to do. Now that I've spent a few years in it, I'm stronger in ways that are difficult to describe. In the beginning, it was murder on the knees. Now my knees are stronger. I can put on a pair of pants and shoes without sitting down or leaning against anything. I can do a lot more pushups and my abs are beginning to look right. I can see my toes. I still can't do the splits, probably never will. I very much look forward to the Kata classes as those basically make me feel like the Karate Kid practicing his moves on the beach or in the boat.

My kids have been going there since they were very young! They learned discipline and more than anything they always had fun. We had to move away from Denver but we still consider this Dojo our family wherever we go. Definitely recommended! Sensei Vitaly and Sensei Alex gave our kids a great foundation for many things with their teachings! They do National competitions that will keep not only the kids but the family engaged and always bonding. Definitely a place to go and checkout!

Training at Okinawa Dojo has been an incredible experience for our family. Karate here goes far beyond physical skills — it’s about resilience, perseverance, discipline, and emotional growth. We’ve seen both of our children thrive in different ways. Our older child has faced big emotional challenges, and the senseis and dojo community have supported him with patience and encouragement, turning tough moments into opportunities for growth and confidence. Our younger child has discovered how much he loves coming to karate each week — building discipline, making friends, and being part of such a wonderful community. As parents, we feel grateful knowing that Okinawa Dojo is helping our children grow not just as martial artists, but as people. The lessons they’re learning on and off the mat will stay with them for life.

My daughter loves training here! The sessions are engaging and well-structured, and I’m confident we’ll see great results soon. Highly recommend!

My son loves Okinawa Dojo. We have been a part of Okinawa Family for many years now. So many great memories - teem-building events, tournaments, travels, belt tests, movie nights, birthday parties and so much more! Especially during this challenging time of pandemic karate helped my son to stay strong, focused on his goals and overall happy!!