Atlanta Shotokan Karate
About
Atlanta Shotokan Karate offers instruction in both MMA and traditional karate disciplines, led by a highly experienced coaching team. Senior Instructor Dr. David Renner brings a wealth of knowledge as a black belt, national champion, and former senior instructor with Illinois Shotokan Karate Clubs, while Assistant Instructor Rachael Sheldrick provides additional support as a first degree black belt. The gym focuses on technical precision, body mechanics, and the cultural aspects of Japanese martial arts, creating a comprehensive training environment for students of all levels.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise Dr. David Renner as an exceptional instructor, describing him as patient, knowledgeable, and deeply understanding of both body mechanics and Shotokan karate. They highlight his ability to maintain high expectations while being incredibly kind and supportive, with many noting how his guidance helped them improve tremendously in their training. Several reviewers who trained with him for years in Chicago specifically mention his role as a mentor who helped them become better, hardworking, and respectful individuals beyond just martial arts skills. Members appreciate his passion for karate, dedication to the art, and genuine care for student well being.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Chibi Amy
6 months ago
Sensei Renner has the patience and knowledge of a truly great instructor. I’ve enjoyed many classes with him, and his guidance has helped me improve my training tremendously. Highly recommend!
Tim Watts
6 months ago
Dr. Renner has wonderfully deep understandings of body mechanics, Shotokan karate, Japanese culture and arts, and instructional methods. This is an unbeatable combination of knowledge and skill.
Sean Evans
6 months ago
I trained under Sensei Renner for close to a decade when he worked in Chicago. He is a phenomenal instructor, coach, and mentor for all ages, and I am fortunate to also consider him a friend.
Justin Knautz
6 months ago
Sensei Renner is by far one of the best. I had the honor to learn from him and learn to teach from him and because of that experience, I am a successful teacher and human myself. He has high expectations for his students but he is incredibly kind and patient as well. If I had kids of my own, I would send them to him to not only learn the amazing martial art of Shotokan Karate, but to become better, hardworking, and respectful humans.
Jack York
6 months ago
I can't speak specific to this dojo but I can speak about how excellent Sensei Renner is. I trained with him for most of my life when he was in the Chicago area and he was an excellent instructor and role model. He is passionate about karate, dedicated to the art, and cares deeply about the well-being of his students.
Contact
450 East Lake Dr, Decatur, GA 30030, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 4:00 – 6:00 PM
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: Closed
Friday: Closed
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
groupCoaches & Instructors
Dr. David Renner
Senior Instructor / Sensei
Black Belt, National Champion, Senior Instructor with Illinois Shotokan Karate Clubs
Training since 1985. National champion by age 10, black belt at 13. Has trained in Shotokan Karate, Iai (Japanese sword), Cha-no-yu (tea ceremony), kung fu at Shaolin temple, and experienced judo and kendo in Japan.
Rachael Sheldrick
Assistant Instructor
Sho Dan (1st degree black belt)
Started training with Sensei Renner in 2001, earned black belt in 2013. Participated in local tournaments as competitor and volunteer. Assists in classes.