Hanshi Sharifi is a gem in the Shotokan world. He trained under Hidetaka Nishiyama, a student of…read moreShotokan founder Gichin Funakoshi. His unique blend of Iranian heritage, karate, Qi Gong, and Sufism, means every training offers new insights to young, old, and in-between! I offer my humble perspective from a karate journey that began as a green belt in Wado Ryu under Hidetaka Abe sensei. I received my Shodan from sensei Frank Hashimoto of the JKA in 1984, and after a 20 + year break, I found Hanshi Sharifi in 2007. Starting over as a white belt was hard for me, but in retrospect, was a wise decision on Hanshi's part. I have my Yondan now, and continue to train with Hanshi Sharifi. I am not exaggerating when I say I learn something new every time I have the privilege of stepping into his dojo. Please visit us at The Church on the Corner in Albany to experience Shotokan karate in its traditional form!

I've been studying with Sensei Sharifi since 1989, and he still teaches every class himself. This…read moreis not squishy Berkeley martial arts-- we work hard!-- but I really appreciate Sensei's empahsis on karate as a means-to-an-end where the end is spiritual development. As if becoming a better karate practicioner is simply a good way to become a better human being. But thankfully he doesn't say things like this in class-- while he's hassling you about your sloppy technique, it's clear his underlying goal is self-improvement, not just knowing where to put your fist or foot. Sensei Sharifi clearly loves his students and loves what he does. He's especially good with kids... as close to Mr Miyagi as you're going to find. :-) Not a lot of sparring until you get to higher belts, but if you like working on mental and physical focus through practice (and more practice, and more practice) this is a good place.

Hanabi Judo has been a fantastic experience for our family. We moved from abroad and Hanabi…read morewelcomed us in with open arms, working with my son to feel comfortable and confident. Dan Sensie is accomodating, always available to give families and kids the individual support and attention they need, and runs a dojo that is warm and community-centric while still maintaining the highest level of discipline and professionalism. We have watched my son grow stronger and improve his skills and practice, while working hard and enjoying himself!

Great experience talking to the owner about conditioning my older body, safety and learning how to…read morefall. Obviously his focus on children is important for the future, but he has great wisdom for us older folks as well.and a special session Tuesday nights for the more mature.

We enrolled our tween-age kids at Karatedo Shinyokai in October 2019 for two reasons: they needed…read moreexercise, and this was the closest dojo. It turns out that we are fortunate to have found one of the best teachers I've encountered, in any subject. Mark Sensei teaches traditional Okinawan karate in a way that is still fun and engaging for typical California kids. He expects a lot from his students, yet is dynamic, understanding and fair. This dojo transitioned seamlessly into virtual classes on Zoom as soon as the shutdown began, and these virtual lessons have been going as well as anything possibly can at this time. The opportunity to engage daily with a group of peers, even virtually, has been priceless. The kids have learned so much beyond punching and kicking: discipline, culture, the value of working hard towards incremental goals... The more senior students help the junior ones with instruction and feedback, and their self-confidence and engagement is something unusual in the average young person. Our kids spent eight weeks in Summer Camp and got to try their hand at so many other fun activities: shodo calligraphy with brushes and ink; various traditional weapons like nunchuks and sticks; even making their own sushi and somen to eat "with" their karate friends! I myself joined the Adult classes in March, and they have helped me in so many ways that I've made this training a priority in my life. Not only have I lost 12 pounds so far :), but there are so many other benefits I was not expecting: better stamina, better mood, a new community of friends, and the mental exercise of learning complex kata. The expression "it's never too late to try something new" has never seemed more meaningful. Karatedo Shinyokai: cannot recommend highly enough!

My 6 year old son takes classes from Sensei Mark and loves it. He looks forward to every class and…read morethe atmosphere is great for boys and girls of all ages. Sensei Mark is fun, patient and informative and offers his students more than just self defense, but a positive way for the kids to carry themselves in all aspects of their lives. The older or more experienced kids help out the younger, newer students in a very postive caring manner that is very impressive ; and fosters a environment that stresses students supporting each other and improving ones technique by also being a good teacher to one another. My son has shown an increase in discipline, self control and confidence. My wife and I are very pleased and highly recommend Karatedo Shiyokai.

I cant say enough about the quality and dedication of the teachers at Berkeley West Wind…read more Adults, children and families learn together in the same beautiful room, each with their individual instructor. The positive atmosphere is palpable.!

I began taking lessons with my two children 15 years ago this month, and am looking forward to…read moretesting for my 5th degree Black Belt this year. The instructors are truly dedicated to the students as well as the arts, and you won't find a more positive, supportive and knowledgeable group of people. Testing for my black belt has been one of my greatest achievements, and to continue through the degree program honing and mastering my skills has been the best...and keep in mind that I have had the same teacher for my entire journey. Not only do I know that I can and will take on anyone who threatens me or my loved ones, I have developed self confidence, awareness, strength and grace that benefits every aspect of my life. I can not recommend West Wind enough!

Our now 5-year old has been attending ECMA for after school program during his TK year. We…read moreoriginally were splitting time between martial arts and an on-site school after program, but after a week, he couldn't stop talking about martial arts and we just signed him up for the full week. Extra bonus - they pick up the kids from school every day. I've really grown to respect the approach that Cody and his staff take with the kids. They never force the kids to take the classes, but for those that do, they are incredibly patient, thoughtful, and kind to them. Beyond core martial arts, they teach discipline, accountability, and other strong lessons. Obviously, martial arts may not be right for any kid. But if your kid loves ninja turtles, likes a bit of exercise, and likes also playing with other kids of other ages, then definitely consider this place.

My 4 year old son loved the winter camp! He was excited to go everyday. Cody is very patient with…read morethe kids.

We moved our kids out of gymnastics and into Jiu Jitzu at SBG NorCal, and we're so glad we did. The…read morekids - with two very different personalities - are both loving it. The adult professional instructors are really engaged and invested in the growth of the kids. The focus on discipline is fantastic; the motivation to add bars to their belt (or eventually the next belt) really gets them going. And they're clearly just having more fun than gymnastics. We were just at an event there, and noticed afterwards how happy all the kids seemed (not just ours). There's a real positive energy. I don't know anything about Jiu Jitzu, but I know this place is a great for the kids to get exercise and personal growth, and maybe even community.

I only went for a couple classes while I was in class, but my experience was positive all around! I…read morewould definitely go back!

This karate dojo is headed by Sensei George Nakahara who has been teaching for a long time. His…read morecommitment to helping his students is exceptional. The dojo is friendly and family oriented with parents often taking classes with their kids. Adult classes are on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, meeting in a side room at Live Oak Recreation Center.Saturday's class, which is larger, meets in the gym. Classes are low-cost but the instruction is excellent. Senior black belts also assist in classes.

I have worked with Devon of Impulse PDR on two separate occasions and he is a phenomenal coach! He…read moreis professional, patient, and communicates information in a way any student would understand. He brings his A Game every time and it was an incredible experience taking his Spear Self Defense Class! I have learned a ton from Devon and look forward to taking another class in the future. Definitely check his classes out if you are interested in learning Self Defense!

Devon is a hands on instructor with a passion and knowledge that pours out through the entire…read moreclass. You will leave informed and realize you are more capable then you may think to better protect yourself.