IKUdojo
About
IKUdojo in Hartford, CT offers training in MMA, judo, and karate, with a particular emphasis on Kyokushin karate. The dojo is led by Head Coach David Farzinzad, known as Kaicho, who holds a 5th Dan Black Belt and is recognized as the youngest 5th Dan in Kyokushin history. His recent induction into the World Martial Arts Hall of Fame speaks to his respected standing in the martial arts community. The training environment blends rigorous physical conditioning with traditional martial arts values, creating a comprehensive approach to self defense, confidence building, and meditation.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise Kaicho (David Farzinzad) as an incredible, kind, and dedicated instructor who is patient yet firm with students of all ages. They describe the dojo as having a welcoming, family like atmosphere with kind and encouraging people, making it excellent for beginners and experienced practitioners alike. Specific benefits highlighted include significant improvements in strength, stamina, endurance, confidence, and overall happiness, with many noting it's more than just physical training it also offers spiritual and meditative elements. No concerns or complaints are mentioned in the reviews.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
William Wednesday
12 years ago
I met Kaicho at my job at Starbucks. I noticed how kind and talkative he was to other customers in line. He invited me to join his Karate school and I have been there four years since. I feel happier and calmer since taking Karate. I know my life has improved for the better. The people are kind and encouraging and the exercise is the best I have found. Kaicho is a great teacher. If you're looking for a good workout environment with friendly people and a spiritual atmosphere, this is the place for you.
Yoganandan Tharanibalan
9 years ago
Few months ago we decided to put our children in martial arts. We did a lot of research to find out the best martial arts there is, the kyokushin karate came out to be the best and this school being near our place we felt so lucky. Master Kaicho is an incredible Master, he not only teaches to black belts but also to these young children. He is a very kind person and his students whether older or younger are very kind and obedient. My two kids showed great progress in such a short time, which shows his teaching style and dedication. He is very friendly to them and where he had to be strict he is. When I go there I get a sense of being part of a family. I would sincerely recommend this dojo for any one who want some serious karate with some fun.
William Burke
10 years ago
Excellent Dojo!! I met a guy named Tony who is a also student of this school. He referred me here after learning that I was looking for a another martial arts school for my smaller kids. He assured me that they would like it and I would too. From the 1st day we arrived my kids were and still are really excited about learning under Kaicho's direction. What I like about him is that he is patient, but firm. I like the discipline. I like the atmosphere. I brought my wife and she loves it! I brought a friend who has practiced for many years and he likes it too. If you are looking for a real traditional martial school with international credentials this is it!!!
Andrew Dzierlatka
9 years ago
Way more than kick and punch! I've been training with IKU for almost 2 years now and can honestly say that joining this organization is one of the best decisions I have ever made. The instructor knows exactly what his students needs are and tailors each class accordingly. A great place for beginners and also those who have experience in martial arts. If you're looking for a dojo to learn self defense, develop confidence, and to meditate, this is it. OSU!
David Spitz
13 years ago
I've been studying Kyokushin under Kaicho since December 2009. As someone over 50, I was somewhat skeptical about beginning such a rigorous training regimen. However, using Kaicho's philosophy of "do your best and leave the rest" I figured I would do my best and not judge myself AND take one day at a time. My journey has been amazing and I look forward to every class. My strength, endurance and stamina have surpassed my wildest dreams. Kaicho's dedication to Kyokushin has earned him the respect of martial artists everywhere. In fact, he recently was inducted into the World Martial Arts Hall of Fame. I am grateful to have Kyokushin in my life and encourage anyone seeking to better themselves with regards to self-defense, stamina and endurance to join us.
scheduleHours
Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Saturday: 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
groupCoaches & Instructors
David Farzinzad
Head Coach / Chief Instructor
5th Dan Black Belt (Youngest 5th Dan in Kyokushin history)
Awarded 5th degree from Sosai Mas Oyama under age 30. Brings the true spirit of Kyokushin Karate. Founder and leader of IKU.