Mahato Karate
About
Mahato Karate offers both MMA and traditional karate training in a welcoming environment that emphasizes both physical development and character building. The gym features traditional tatami training mats, weapons training equipment, changing facilities, a parent observation area, and free parking. Head Instructor Michael Ray Graves, a 7th Degree Black Belt and USA Karate Hall of Fame member, leads classes with a patient, proven approach that focuses on building confidence and discipline through dedicated practice. Members appreciate the dojo's inclusive atmosphere where everyone is welcome regardless of race, age, gender, or identity, creating a supportive community for both children and adults.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise Head Instructor Michael Ray Graves as a gifted, knowledgeable teacher who patiently builds students' confidence and character through traditional martial arts training. Reviewers highlight the welcoming, inclusive atmosphere where both children and adults experience physical and mental growth, with specific mention of the Kobu Power program's effectiveness for strength and self-defense. Parents express gratitude for how the dojo's Bushido philosophy helps develop discipline and leadership in young students. While one reviewer criticized instructor knowledge, the overwhelming sentiment celebrates the transformative impact of training under Graves and his team.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Olga Jones
a year ago
Kobu Power! Absolutely amazing! Taking this class for 5 months now! If you don’t know Kobu power is a cardio strength training workout that also teaches you self-defense. I have seen tremendous improvements in my core strength! Instructor is dedicated, knowledgeable and fun! Works with your confidence level and build as you go! Highly recommended!
Jac Karu
2 years ago
This little Dojo on Philly Pike has been a real blessing for this community. A boot-strap, no plastic, no filler school that teaches kids and adults the values of Bushido through the art of Karate. (Bushido philosophy is akin to western Stoic values that highlight self-control and the service to others as virtues). We enrolled- our now 9 yr old- less than a year ago, and have watched him grow physically, mentally and incrementally disciplined with the help of the Shihan Graves, Senpei Melissa, Sensei Caputo, John and other student leaders. **Everyone is welcome here regardless of race, age, gender or identity. This Dojo has Heart.
Karlito Kush
2 years ago
I studied under Sensei Graves many moons ago, back at the Trolley square location.I can't speak highly enough about not only the techniques used by Sensei but the Dojo atmosphere is always welcoming to anyone looking to further enhance their sense of awareness, discipline and selfcare.The confidence you can achieve through dedication and sacrifice is paramount to healthy development. THANK YOU SENSEI GRAVES🧘♂️🙏
J. Streck
6 years ago
Shihan Michael Graves is a gifted teacher who is not only talented at his craft but is generous of spirit. I am ever grateful for the guidance he showed my son not only with Karate but as a builder of his character and confidence. I have seen Shihan Grave guide his students to create not only a practice of martial arts but as teacher of leaders through winning ways and through his patient and proven techniques within the teaching and training of martial arts. Thank you for your years of dedication. Do not have any hesitation in taking martial arts or personal training with this gifted and knowledgeable gem in our community. You'll be smiling now & for years later at the memories of you or your children(s) time spent learning with Shihan Graves... its worth every hard earned cent ten times over!
Mark L.
8 months ago
Don't know where to start, I watched a class and it was terrible, The instructors and the owner, aren't that knowledgeable as people think! Wouldn't recommend this school, watch and see for yourself!
fitness_centerAmenities
Contact
3011 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont, DE 19703, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Tuesday: 7:31 AM – 8:00 PM
Wednesday: 7:31 AM – 8:00 PM
Thursday: 7:31 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday: 7:31 AM – 8:00 PM
Saturday: 7:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
groupCoaches & Instructors
Michael Ray Graves
Head Instructor/Sensei
7th Degree Black Belt, USA Karate Hall of Fame, Former USA Karate Team Captain
Founder and head sensei with 35+ years of experience. Established Mahato Karate in 1986. 10-time International Medalist.