Shorin-ryu Karate School

Shorin-ryu Karate School Shorin-Ryu Karate School was established in 1990 to promote original Okinawa Karate & Ryukyu Kobudo

Shorinryu Karate School was established in 1990 as a means of promoting original Chibana-style Shorin-ryu karate-do and Ryukyu kobudo. We teach an authentic form of martial art passed down from generation to generation, as opposed to sport or tournament style karate.Okinawan karate is noted for its emphasis on strict discipline in the dojo, rigorous training, and excellence in basic techniques. Ok

inawan karate masters believe that it is better to learn one technique well than to learn 100 poorly. Shorin-ryu karate uses approximately 85% hand and 15% foot techniques, in addition to many grappling maneuvers and sweeping take-down moves.Practicing and studying the art of karate-do is an excellent way for a person to improve both physically and mentally. Through consistent and patient training, individuals are able to improve flexibility, coordination, strength, and reflexes, and also sharpen their mind. Karate-do training has proven itself as a foundation in helping build a person’s character.The essence of orthodox Okinawan karate-do, as expressed by the Okinawa Karate-do Association, and Ernest Estrada sensei, who is the president of the North American branch: "Okinawan karate is not based on winning - it is based on not losing." Training then becomes its own reward with the idea that Okinawan karate is for everyone, not just for those who are competitive. Women, children, and older people benefit from the systematic methods as employed by our black belts.

06/05/2026

No one showed up for the 5:30 PM class so I’m closing the dojo early.
Will return for tomorrow morning classes.

06/03/2026

Japan's government will hold a ceremony on Nov. 22 to mark restoration work being completed on Shuri Castle's main hall in Okinawa Prefecture, which burned down in 2019.

05/27/2026

Over time, karate becomes about far more than self-defense.

Some students are enthusiastic about kata; others are not, but they still practice it. What stands out is the number of ...
05/25/2026

Some students are enthusiastic about kata; others are not, but they still practice it. What stands out is the number of people who refuse to admit that “karate” doesn’t mean mindless repetition of “meaningless forms.” This isn’t true if you’re training at a reputable dojo.

Understanding kata as a method of preserving knowledge changes how you see karate.

05/08/2026

I do not know who originally wrote this:
_____

Saw this quote today:

Karate doesn’t struggle because it lacks power—it struggles because it demands patience in a world addicted to shortcuts. Where most people chase fast results, visible muscles, or instant competition, karate quietly asks for something harder: discipline without applause, repetition without excitement, and progress that often feels invisible. Many walk in expecting action and leave when they meet structure—stances, basics, etiquette—mistaking depth for slowness. Unlike trend-driven fitness or high-adrenaline sports, karate builds from the inside out, shaping character before showcasing skill, and that’s a trade fewer people are willing to commit to. In a culture that celebrates quick wins, karate remains stubbornly loyal to mastery—and mastery has never been crowded.

The obituary of Giles–sensei. His wife, Cherie, provided this to be shared.
05/06/2026

The obituary of Giles–sensei. His wife, Cherie, provided this to be shared.

Celebrate the life of Robert Giles and join others in sharing memories, stories, and condolences.

The aim should not be to “win”—the goal is not to lose.Getting back home; protecting your loved ones, should be what mat...
05/06/2026

The aim should not be to “win”—the goal is not to lose.
Getting back home; protecting your loved ones, should be what matters.

Why we need to stop training for restraint and start training for escape.

It is with great sadness and respect that we share the news of the passing of Giles-Sensei.He always brought such joy an...
04/28/2026

It is with great sadness and respect that we share the news of the passing of Giles-Sensei.
He always brought such joy and livelihood to the dojo. Be in peace, sensei. We will miss you.

Congratulations to the Spring 2026 testing Karateka for Shōdan and above, (and those who assisted and attended.) They di...
04/26/2026

Congratulations to the Spring 2026 testing Karateka for Shōdan and above, (and those who assisted and attended.) They did a great job—especially given the little bit of “old way” stress thrown their way by Estrada–Sensei. (It was fantastic to see/hear that he is still doing that, and I'm happy to be on the other side of the table when it happens. 😉.)

*My apologies for not remembering to get the photo until nearly everyone changed out of their dōgi.

01/13/2026

Address

1420 Plainfield Avenue NE 3FL
Grand Rapids, MI
49505

Opening Hours

Monday 12pm - 1pm
5pm - 8pm
Wednesday 12pm - 1pm
5pm - 7:30pm
Thursday 5:30pm - 7pm
Friday 12pm - 1pm
Saturday 10am - 11:30am

Telephone

+16165770972

Website

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