Adult Classes
Adult Class
Shotokan Karate
Our adult class ranges from young adults to seniors, moms, dads, college students and everything in between. All backgrounds, ages, and skill are welcome to embark on their own personal journey. No experience is necessary. This is a “no ego” class to relieve stress and lean an new art form.
Why Try Adult Karate at Allegheny Shotokan Dojo?
Trying adult karate at Allegheny Shotokan Dojo is more than just joining a fitness class—it’s stepping into a tradition of excellence, discipline, and personal growth. Whether you’re a beginner or returning martial artist, here’s why it’s worth it:
1. Proven Legacy of Excellence:
Allegheny Shotokan is one of the most respected martial arts schools in the country, with a lineage that has produced national and world champions. Founded by Bill Viola Sr. and carried on by Sensei Bill Viola Jr., the dojo is home to Team Kumite and a proud part of Pittsburgh’s martial arts legacy.
2. Fitness with Purpose:
Adult karate is a full-body workout that builds strength, stamina, flexibility, and coordination—while also sharpening your focus and mental clarity. Unlike a typical gym routine, every movement has meaning and progress is tracked through belts and goals.
3. Stress Relief & Confidence:
Karate offers a positive outlet for stress while building self-discipline and confidence. You’ll leave class feeling stronger, both physically and mentally.
4. Real Self-Defense Skills:
Learn practical self-defense techniques rooted in traditional martial arts and modern sport applications. It’s not just about kicks and punches—it’s about awareness, timing, and control.
5. Supportive Community:
Train alongside like-minded adults in a welcoming environment that emphasizes mutual respect and growth. Whether your goal is fitness, confidence, competition, or self-improvement, you’ll find support every step of the way.
6. Black Belt in Life Philosophy:
At Allegheny Shotokan, the goal goes beyond the belt. The dojo promotes the “Black Belt in Life” mindset—helping you succeed not just in karate, but in everyday life.
SELF-DEFENSE
Karate is a great for of self-defense
FITNESS
Karate improves overall health, flexibility and coordination.
MENTAL FOCUS
Karate will help you leave the stress behind
GOAL ORIENTED
Karate is opportunity to learn an artform and move up the ranks toward black belt.
Self-Defense
POWER OF SHOTOKAN
Shotokan isn’t just a sport—it’s a system of powerful, practical techniques designed to protect yourself. You’ll learn how to block, strike, evade, and counter with speed and precision. The focus is on effective movement and using your opponent’s force against them.
Shotokan is rooted in traditional Okinawan karate and emphasizes strong stances, linear techniques, and explosive power. At Allegheny Shotokan, these classical techniques are adapted for real-life situations—teaching students how to handle confrontations with confidence and control.
Shotokan is one of the most widely influential styles of traditional Japanese karate. It was founded by Gichin Funakoshi, who introduced karate from Okinawa to mainland Japan in the early 20th century. The name Shotokan comes from “Shoto” (Funakoshi’s pen name, meaning “waving pines”) and “kan” (meaning hall), so it loosely translates to “Shoto’s House.”
Master Teruyuki Okazaki was one of the most dynamic Shotokan karate instructors in the world and a direct student of Gichin Funakoshi.
Shihan Viola was a student of Okazaki and carries on the legendary traditions today.
Adult karate class
WHAT TO EXPECT
#1 WARM UP
Exciting stations based on agility, strength, endurance and flexibility.
#2 KIHON
The basics. Comprehensive instructions on the basics of Shotokan karate and martial arts.
#3 KATA
Kata is martial arts exercises that challenge you mentally and physically.
#4 SELF-DEFENSE
Learn how to protect yourself!
Black Belts in Life
