Doshi-Kai Karate has been teaching traditional martial arts in Acton, Massachusetts and in the greater Boston area since 1984, and prides itself on teaching all of our students in a focused but friendly environment. Doshi-Kai offers a children's karate program for ages three and up, as well adult karate classes open to all ranks.
No experience needed! Doshi-Kai was founded by Nago Matsuyama Sensei in Boston in 1984, and has long established itself as a leader in the Massachusetts traditional martial arts landscape. Classes at Doshi-Kai are structured to be filled with learning, encouragement, hard work, and enjoyment for all of its students.
No experience needed! Doshi-Kai was founded by Nago Matsuyama Sensei in Boston in 1984, and has long established itself as a leader in the Massachusetts traditional martial arts landscape. Classes at Doshi-Kai are structured to be filled with learning, encouragement, hard work, and enjoyment for all of its students.
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Doshi-Kai (meaning "the group pursuing the way") was founded by Master Nagao Matsuyama, in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1984. The atmosphere at Doshi-Kai is unique-serious and focused, but friendly and not militaristic.
In this setting, you can really feel the difference between "commercial" martial arts and the rare traditional non-profit groups where the "art" is more important than the promotion, the technique more valued than the belt, and the individual progress is not measured by how much you've paid out, but by how hard you work on yourself.
In this setting, you can really feel the difference between "commercial" martial arts and the rare traditional non-profit groups where the "art" is more important than the promotion, the technique more valued than the belt, and the individual progress is not measured by how much you've paid out, but by how hard you work on yourself.
Shotokan Karate was founded by Grandmaster Gichin Funakoshi who studied Te under Grandmaster Itosu and Grandmaster Higaonna in Okinawa. Back then, Karate was called Te (hand), and different types of Te were studied in various areas of Okinawa. Grandmaster Funakoshi was the first Karate-ka to introduce Te to mainland Japan.
Adult classes are taught on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, and we have Saturday classes from 10:00 AM to noon. The adult classes are open and beneficial to students of all levels, from the very beginners to black belts, men, women and adolescents. Please see Hon for rates, family discounts, and to pay your tuition before or after class.
Bo-Jutsu is the fundamental weapon and its depth of techniques is as thorough as Ken-Jutsu. It stands alone from other Okinawan weapons. It has been said by old masters that Bo-Jutsu is one of the wheels of a cart and Karate is the other, meaning that their techniques and philosophy complement each other.
In the children's martial arts classes at Doshi-Kai, students learn traditional Shotokan Karate, as well as develop the personal benefits of martial arts including self control, discipline, respect and focus. Our children's classes are tailored specifically not just to their experience with martial arts, but to the respective physical, intellectual, social and emotional stages of development of each age group.
Reviews (10)
Thomas Shea
Jan 05, 2022
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DoshiKai is a wonderful dojo with a warm atmosphere and excellent instructors. They teach classical Shotokan karate from its roots yet keep training vibrant and novel. I’ve trained under the head instructor, and side-by-side with some of the senior members, for over 50 years. During these decades, I’ve had the good fortune to meet and train with more and more great karate students and instructors. Training is serious but exhilarating and inspiring. There is a group spirit that lifts everyone. Classes are offered for all ages and all levels, and training is adjusted for each age group and skill
Maire Morales
Jan 05, 2022
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If your looking for a great place for yourself or your children to go this is it. My son goes to classes with sensei Katie and loves it. She is wonderful and very personable. My son has learned discipline and above all self confidence. Which is a game changer for him. He has always struggled with behavioral issues as well a social issues, and with with this group not only has made new friends, but has truly felt part of a team. It’s truly amazing to see these kids progress and get so excited about learning and demonstrating. We are so grateful for this new family we have become a part of and
Amy Kelly
Dec 03, 2021
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Positive: Communication, Professionalism, Quality, Value
Instructor Katie provided an incredibly informative and empowering 4 1/2 hour self-defense class for a group of high school females. She equipped them with invaluable skills in self-defense for a myriad of different scenarios. Cannot recommend the class or instructor enough - it should truly be a graduation requirement.
Instructor Katie provided an incredibly informative and empowering 4 1/2 hour self-defense class for a group of high school females. She equipped them with invaluable skills in self-defense for a myriad of different scenarios. Cannot recommend the class or instructor enough - it should truly be a graduation requirement.
Kera Snyder
Nov 25, 2021
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James Lee
Nov 19, 2021
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If six stars were available, they'd all go to Doshi-Kai. The kids' program with Sensei Katie is the absolute best, and I would recommend it to any parent looking for a technically superior, fun, supportive karate experience. Having been involved in traditional Shotokan karate for over 30 years as a competitor, educator, and advocate, I can state with great confidence that Doshi-Kai and Sensei Katie are truly extraordinary. As a parent, there is nowhere else I would send my own kids to train.
A. K.
Oct 29, 2021
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My 16 year old daughter started lessons with Katie a while back, and it has been an amazing experience. She had never taken martial arts or self defense classes, but struggles with anxiety and wanted to learn self defense to feel safer. Not only is she having a lot of fun in the lessons with Katie, she's feeling empowered, and literally beaming when she comes out. We've been so impressed by the speed she's learning important concepts, and how well they are being taught. Highly recommend this for teens and adults alike. Good skills to have!
Libby Grant
Sep 14, 2021
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I took a self defense class with Doshi-Kai's instructor Katie and I cannot say enough good things about the class and Katie. Katie taught in a way that was 1) VERY informative 2) inclusive of all body types and abilities 3) well paced to allow for lots of information and skill development without rushing us and 4) a way that recognized the trauma that many female-identifying people have experienced in a way that made the experience welcoming and comfortable. I have personally recommended her to many close friends and colleagues.
Miki Bryan Fitzgibbons
Aug 13, 2021
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Thank you Sensei Katie for all you have done for our Son Carter. He could not be happier to be a part of the Doshi Kai Dojo. The transformation in him has been amazing to see and his progress, confidence and new found willingness to step out of his comfort zone is attributed to your positive and professional instruction and inspiration. The COVID safety protocols you have had in place are appreciated and commendable. The respect the students show to you and to each other in and out of class is a testament to the core values you instill and that Doshi Kai embodies. We are lucky and grateful to be
Jennifer Charland
Jul 21, 2021
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This martial arts program is by far the best in the Metro West. The instructors go above and beyond to inspire each student to reach their fullest potential. We came to this martial arts studio looking for a unique way to stay active and we found so much more. The instructors work with the kids on self esteem, respect and discipline in a fun and engaging way while also increasing speed, power and stamina. Doshi-Kai Karate is THE place in MA for an outstanding, inclusive and supportive martial arts experience.
Sheryl Love Sunshine
Jun 02, 2021
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My son started karate at Doshi-Kai in September, 2020 and has absolutely loved his experience there! So much, that my daughter begged to go for months also and I finally signed her up 6 weeks ago! They both LOVE “karate days” and come home from every class excited to share what they’ve learned! They have both gained such a sense of self-confidence and are both so proud of their accomplishments in such a short time! Sensei Rich has created such a great atmosphere at the Doshi-Kai dojo and Sensei Katie is amazing at what she does, is so good with the kids and keeps all of the students focused
