Dunbar Karate Club
We practice Shotokan Karate in the Dunbar area of Vancouver. Students of all levels are welcome to train with us in an environment that fosters learning, discipline, pushing personal limits and self discovery.
We welcome anyone aged 16+ and of any ability to train with us.
Our Philosphy
Karate at its essence is the art of self-defence. But it’s way more than that.
It's a way to bring courage, determination and accomplishment into your life.
It’s a way to discover a never-ending source of knowledge that will provide new meaning into your life.
It’s a way to train body and mind, to align both for the perpetual betterment of ourself.
It's a way to push yourself way beyond your own expectations, and revel in the enjoyment of achievement.
It's a way to learn and use self-discipline in order to grow self-respect - and seek to have the same respect for others.
It’s a way to understand how the philosophy behind what you learn in the dojo transfers into your daily life.
It’s a way to build a very powerful body and move it with the aid of a very tranquil mind.
Where and When We Train
Our dojo is at the Dunbar Community Center (4747 Dunbar Street) which is located at West 32nd Avenue and Dunbar Street in Vancouver.Sessions open to all students are on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 6:00pm to 7:30pm.
Sessions for intermediate to advanced students are on Saturday mornings from 9:30am to 11:00am.A list of our available sessions and current registration costs can be found at the Dunbar Community Center's registration page in the link below.
What We Do
Our training sessions are generally broken up into 3 different components:
- Kihon (basics of punching, kicking and blocking)
- Kata (choreographed movement and patterns)
- Kumite (sparring)Training may involve other activities including fitness building, stretching or learning concepts from other disciplines (such as Judo).
Why Learn Karate?
Karate is inherently a defensive art and is an excellent way for you to learn to protect yourself and others.
It goes beyond just being a defensive art, though. It's a way to improve your physical fitness, stamina, discipline and confidence.
If you are interested in challenging yourself while increasing your physical and mental strength - then karate might be a great fit for you!
Meet the Sensei
Sensei Jonathan originally hails from South Africa where he learned karate under the instruction of Sensei Stan Schmidt, who was dubbed the "Father of South African Karate".
Sensei Jonathan's teaching philosophy leans heavily on what he learned from Sensei Stan - he expects his students to try their hardest and push themselves to new heights at every training session. Continuous improvement is at the core of what he believes in.
In addition to that, Sensei Jonathan is always thinking about karate - whether when he's on holidays, working at his desk or walking his dog in the forest. He brings that passion and enthusiasm to each of his training sessions and is keen to share his knowledge. Students leave his training sessions not just learning how to perform a certain karate concept or technique but understanding why they are learning it.
Get Inspired
Sensei Stan Schmidt (Sensei Jonathan's instructor in South Africa) was involved with the production of a video in the 1970s titled the Soul of Karate. This video is an excellent introduction to Shotokan karate and a must-watch for anyone interested in karate.
Contact Us
If you have questions about karate or are interested in joining us, please reach out and someone will get in touch with you shortly.