Welcome to Shobukan Martial Arts Academy in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, one of ONLY 20 authentic Okinawan Shobukan karate dojos worldwide. We offer martial arts classes in a friendly setting where kids, parents, grandparents, friends, and guests are encouraged to train. We also offer private lessons and women's self-defense classes.
Join our exclusive membership and become part of a truly unique martial arts journey. As a member gain access to unmatched learning and training proficiency in a traditional dojo setting. Schedule a visit to our authentic Okinawan karate dojo, and experience for yourself real world self-defense application that melds old world tradition with new world understanding.
Join our exclusive membership and become part of a truly unique martial arts journey. As a member gain access to unmatched learning and training proficiency in a traditional dojo setting. Schedule a visit to our authentic Okinawan karate dojo, and experience for yourself real world self-defense application that melds old world tradition with new world understanding.
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Karate, or the "art of the empty hand", originated on the small group of Ryukyu islands that today we call Okinawa. Since the 1300's a form a martial arts called "Te" was practiced in Okinawa. Merchants goods, cultural ways, and martial arts were traded between Okinawa and China for generations. The incorporation of techniques from Chinese Kenpo become the essence and effectiveness of traditional karate.
Goju Ryu is a close combat fighting system that comprises punches, kicks, elbows, knees, take-downs, submissions, and pressure point applications used to subdue an opponent all while using the least amount of energy possible. Classes include stretching, strength training, weight training, self-defense techniques, kata (set forms and prearranged fighting scenarios used to discipline the mind and body), partner exercises, and sparring.
Show respect by bowing to the dojo shomen (to acknowledge skills passed on through the ages from one teacher to the next teacher). When instructed to line up or sit in seiza, maintain proper form and do so in order of rank. Listen carefully to instructions, practice with sincere effort, and take correction and advice.
Reviews (10)
Marilou Sison-Mangus
Jan 03, 2022
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Everything about the school is excellent. Sensei Richard is very precise in his teaching and very patient with kids. The karate Okinawan style is focus on self-defense and is very traditional in style and structure. Every step is explained. Quite refreshing to see in a martial arts school. Very disciplined and teaches respect and tradition. The school is very clean and beautiful, like a traditional Japanese dojo. The school is also certified by the Japanese government and the Sensei’s are tested regularly.
Aundersfox
Oct 26, 2020
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Craig Stewart
Aug 01, 2019
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The best TRADITIONAL karate school in Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra, I have been a student since 1996 with this dojo I have achieved a 4th deg BB rank and I'm still a student...think about what I just said, i have personally trained at other schools where a 4th deg was considered a sifu. Sensei , and even Master,( Im still learning)..that's the difference between traditional karate and alot not all mind you of a corporate karate school.
They offer weapons training as well as jujitsu train 5 days a week in the finest dojo you have ever walked into, Richard Mustafa and Ray Peete have a facility second
They offer weapons training as well as jujitsu train 5 days a week in the finest dojo you have ever walked into, Richard Mustafa and Ray Peete have a facility second
Zen Zone
Jun 06, 2019
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Eddie Sand The Optimistic Marketer
May 30, 2019
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I was back in Okinawa Japan. 🙂There is a sense of unity and family. This is an art for self defense and also self discipline. Pressure point and weapons training are part of the training. Open for children and adults. Go visit and experience it for yourself. Sensei Richard and his team are amazing instructors and very personable.
First Coast Legal Group Llc
Dec 29, 2017
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Words cannot accurately describe how wonderful this dojo is. Each Sensei is highly dedicated to traditional Goju Ryu and the dojo environment is fantastic for both children and adults. I stumbled through its door. I walk gracefully and strongly out of it nearly every other day not out of obligation, but inspiration.
GoyoMontoya
Jan 15, 2016
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Deborah Henson
Sep 30, 2015
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Chase Capo
Sep 16, 2015
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The first moment I walked into this school was 8 years ago and I instantly felt the respect and reverence for the good martial arts that are practiced here. The teachers are effective, the attitudes that are perpetuated are very positive and affirming. I live out of state and still travel to visit and train with them once a year. Excellent martial arts school!
William M.
Jun 14, 2013
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