As one of the oldest and longest continually running Martial Arts Schools in Boulder, Colorado, Way of the Crane continues to provide the true spirit of the Martial Arts to students of all ages. Owned and operated by Sensei Melanie Murphy since 1983, Way of the Crane's training incorporates aspects of Karate, Kung-Fu, Ju-Jitsu and Chin-Na for a truly eclectic Mixed Martial Art environment that emphasizes self reliance and situational awareness for real world conflicts.
What you will find at Way of the Crane is one of the best equipped dojos in the state, quality experienced teachers who genuinely care about the student in an environment of honest Martial Arts instruction with an emphasis on correct execution, safety and real world application for both adults and children.I took Streetwize Self Defense two years ago.
What you will find at Way of the Crane is one of the best equipped dojos in the state, quality experienced teachers who genuinely care about the student in an environment of honest Martial Arts instruction with an emphasis on correct execution, safety and real world application for both adults and children.I took Streetwize Self Defense two years ago.
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At Way Of The Crane you will learn self-defense based on the fundamentals of Okinawan Karate. Our training is rooted in proven techniques with practical application. At Way Of The Crane Dojo we strive to balance the need to train hard with realistic martial arts techniques in an environment of safety, positive energy and encouragement.
At Way Of The Crane you will learn Martial Arts and self-defense based on the fundamentals of Okinawan Karate. Our training is rooted in proven techniques with practical application. Adult classes at Way of the Crane are challenging and fun, both physically and intellectually. Each rank, which builds upon the previous, has theoretical, philosophical, and intellectual requirements in addition to the physical skills to be learned.
Streetwize Self Defence classes are held in a safe and nurturing environment where we provide you with the tools you need to protect yourself in dangerous situations, no matter your size or athletic ability. Each class will help develop your physical, mental and emotional strength as you partake in real-life scenarios with our trained martial arts students.
Join us for a comprehensive and concentrated half-day self defense class. This class covers how to recognize an attacker and what tricks they use. It covers how situations turn from casual to dangerous in the blink of an eye. Set boundaries with your voice and escaping grabs from the front and back using basic offensive and defensive techniques.
Join us for an intensive and individualized self defense workshop. This award-winning workshop empowers you with the confidence, awareness and physical abilities that are fundamental to self-defense. In this class we will cover how to think quickly and take action when confronted. How to recognize and avoid potential danger, and how to defend yourself from physical attack.
Reviews (15)
Enrique Callejas
Apr 03, 2021
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David Glover
Oct 01, 2020
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Thomas C. Tom Con
Aug 02, 2020
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The best martial arts dojo that I know. The experiences and the practice I have fostered here, thanks to the immense depth of knowledge of the Sensei and Senpai, has pushed me beyond what I thought was capable for myself, both mentally and physically.
By my calculation, Sensei and the advanced students have over 200 years of combined karate experience under their belts. This is evident in the teaching of every movement and action. I have never had a question go unanswered, because practitioners at this school will not teach something that is not understood at it's core.
The work is not easy,
By my calculation, Sensei and the advanced students have over 200 years of combined karate experience under their belts. This is evident in the teaching of every movement and action. I have never had a question go unanswered, because practitioners at this school will not teach something that is not understood at it's core.
The work is not easy,
Terry Brien
Feb 04, 2020
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Kung Rsl
Jun 15, 2019
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A great dojo. A great mix of fighting skills, self defense and the traditional practice of kata. The more advanced students truly care about the advancement of the lower ranked students. Sensei Murphy wants the art to be practiced by the student in their own way, while at the same time maintaining a core curriculum. A truly unique mix.
Larry Hill
May 31, 2019
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I sent my 18 year old daughter who is leaving for college this fall to a Streetwize Self Defense class with Sensei Melanie Murphy. At first my daughter didn't want to go, but I thought it was important to send her away with some tools to protect herself in case she finds herself in a bad position. She spent 2 hours with Melanie and when she came home there was a noticeable excitement and confidence in her. Melanie brought that confidence out by showing my daughter how strong she really is. I would recommend that every dad send their daughter to see Melanie and take one of her self defense class
Meishan W.
Dec 12, 2018
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This review is long overdue, but if you want a fantastic mixed martial arts education that teaches you control and responsibility with what you learn, Way of the Crane is the place. I finished a challenging course during the summer, and I gained self confidence in a controlled, safe environment. I highly recommend taking any of the courses offered!
Brian P.
Sep 28, 2018
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StreetWize has great self defense instructors who take the time to teach you how to physically defend yourself if in case something goes wrong. Learn the proper striking techniques, defense, body language, deescalate and proven verbal commands that make a difference in most self defense situations. Instructors are very knowledgeable and teach you step by step on how you can take control of a situation. A lot of equipment to use to help your through their program. I highly recommend for employee self defense or personal training!
Derya A.
Apr 18, 2018
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Alison Chavarria
Jan 09, 2018
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I have recommended the 4 day self defense class to my female friends and will continue to do so. Melanie and her staff brought a perspective shift to my life about personal security, self worth and risk… management within the first few moments of the course and it just kept going into a strength-building event in my life, both inside and out, that just keeps on giving. I feel equipped, less afraid, and honored to have worked with the women and men who give their time to produce a multi-faceted course. I was sore all 4 days but it was entirely worth it. My 69 year old friend did it too--
Paul Aiken
Dec 30, 2017
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Jeanne Clelland
Sep 17, 2017
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Fantastic school, with a unique blend of traditional martial arts and modern, practical self-defense. I have been training here for 19 years, and the curriculum is deep and rich enough to keep me coming back because there's always more to learn. The community of students is friendly and supportive, and it's just a fabulous place to train!
Leah S.
Jul 12, 2017
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Completed the Street Wize self defense course and am utterly blown away by how EMPOWERING and educational the class was. Melanie and staff are devoted to providing you with the knowledge to protect yourself against threat or unwelcome advances. I have a better sense of my feminine energy and muscle memory to better defend myself if in an unfortunate situation in the future. WOULD RECOMMEND THIS TO ALL WOMEN! You are not going to get this type of experience at any other self dense teaching facility. I am extremely grateful to the staff and fellow participants.
Meagan Chandler
Jun 07, 2017
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It has been easy to devote 16 years of regular practice to this school. It's a deep training that is nearly impossible to find these days, far from instant gratification based, and the marital artists there are incredible people that embody integrity. The women's self defense is ferocious, effective, and delightful - I want every woman I know to do it, and I wish it was taught in every school around the world! It is so worth checking this place out!
Matthew L.
Oct 27, 2014
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I did not know how good I had it at Way of The Crane until I had to leave the state for my career. I studied here for 7+ years and left as an advanced rank. As I have been looking for a new Dojo to study at, I recognize that the quality of instruction and curriculum in unparalleled. As I try out the martial arts classes to find a new school, from Akido, Judo, MMA, Boxing and Karate, the skills and discipline I obtained here are recognized by the instructors of these schools. If you have found this gem then you have the opportunity to study at in my opinion the best Dojo in Colorado and one of the
