INTERNATIONAL KARATE ASSOCIATION, INC.

- 3301 N Verdugo Rd, Glendale, CA 91208

Introduction / Overview

The INTERNATIONAL KARATE ASSOCIATION, INC., located in Glendale, California, is a historic and highly respected institution in the world of martial arts. Founded in 1953 in Tokyo by the legendary Soke (Grandmaster) Takayuki Kubota, the academy's mission has always been to preserve and promote traditional Japanese karate. The school is the headquarters of the Gosoku Ryu, or "Hard and Fast Style," a form of karate that Soke Kubota created by blending elements of Shotokan and Goju-Ryu with his own innovations. This makes the training at IKA not just a physical workout, but an authentic journey into a unique and powerful martial art lineage.

The school's legacy is defined by its commitment to teaching "REAL karate," as one former student who trained there over 40 years ago attests. This commitment means the training is rigorous and challenging, but the rewards are profound. As a current student notes, the late Soke Kubota was a special master who taught "qualities like respect, discipline, and focus." These core values are at the heart of the school's curriculum and are designed to help students, especially children, "grow up to become a mentally and physically strong individual." This holistic approach to martial arts ensures that students gain skills that are applicable in all facets of life, fostering a sense of honor and personal strength.

A student who chose IKA after visiting nine other dojos praised the school's high level of discipline and the exceptional quality of its instructors, many of whom are black belts with numerous degrees. The dojo also stands out for its strong sense of community, with students who have been training there for 20 or more years. This long-term loyalty is a powerful testament to the supportive and family-oriented environment that the school cultivates. The academy also offers a mix of in-person classes and online training, providing flexibility for students to continue their journey. With its deep roots in tradition and a forward-thinking approach to training, the INTERNATIONAL KARATE ASSOCIATION is a pillar of the martial arts community in Southern California.

Location and Accessibility

The INTERNATIONAL KARATE ASSOCIATION, INC. is centrally located at 3301 N Verdugo Rd, Glendale, CA 91208, USA. This location makes it easily accessible to residents of Glendale and the greater Los Angeles area, with convenient access from major roads. Situated on a main road, the facility is simple to find and get to, which is a significant advantage for those with busy schedules.

The academy is also dedicated to accessibility, ensuring that the facility is welcoming and inclusive for all members of the community. It features a wheelchair accessible entrance, making it easy for individuals with mobility challenges to enter and exit the building. Furthermore, a wheelchair accessible parking lot is available, which provides convenient and safe parking close to the entrance. The facility is also equipped with a restroom for the convenience and comfort of all students and visitors. These thoughtful features demonstrate the school’s commitment to making traditional karate training available to everyone, regardless of their physical abilities. The combination of a convenient location and full accessibility makes the INTERNATIONAL KARATE ASSOCIATION, INC. a highly practical and stress-free option for anyone in the region looking to begin their martial arts journey.

Services Offered

• Karate Club: A dedicated club for students to learn and practice the traditional Gosoku Ryu style of karate.
• Karate School: Provides structured, professional instruction in a rigorous and disciplined environment.
• Martial Arts School: Offers comprehensive martial arts training for various skill levels.
• Adult Karate Classes: Programs designed specifically for adults, focusing on fitness, technique, and discipline.
• Kids Karate Classes: Age-appropriate classes that teach children the fundamentals of karate while instilling core values like respect and focus.
• Fitness Programs: Training that enhances physical fitness, strength, and endurance.
• Online Classes: The school offers remote training options for students who cannot attend in person.
• Personalized Instruction: The school's instructors are committed to providing individual guidance to help each student grow.

Features / Highlights

• Founded by a Legendary Master: The academy was founded by the late Soke Takayuki Kubota, the creator of the Gosoku Ryu style of karate.
• Authentic and Traditional Training: Known for teaching "REAL karate" with a focus on discipline and respect.
• Strong Community: The school has a family-oriented atmosphere, with a high degree of student loyalty and retention over many years.
• Experienced Instructors: The dojo is staffed by highly qualified instructors, many of whom have black belts with advanced degrees.
• Wheelchair Accessible: The facility provides a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot.
• Convenient Payment: Accepts debit cards for easy, hassle-free payments.
• Holistic Development: The training is designed to build not only physical strength but also mental fortitude, focus, and discipline.
• Flexible Learning: Offers both in-person and online classes to accommodate various schedules.

Contact Information

Address: 3301 N Verdugo Rd, Glendale, CA 91208, USA

Phone: (818) 541-1240

What is worth choosing

When it comes to selecting a martial arts school in the Glendale area, the INTERNATIONAL KARATE ASSOCIATION, INC. offers a legacy and a level of authenticity that is hard to match. The single most important reason to choose this academy is its direct connection to the founder of its style, the late Soke Takayuki Kubota. As one reviewer who trained there decades ago puts it, this is the place to learn "REAL karate." This is not a commercialized, watered-down version of martial arts; it is a serious, traditional discipline that demands and rewards hard work. The fact that the school is the official headquarters for the Gosoku Ryu style ensures a level of instruction that is unparalleled.

Another compelling reason to choose IKA is its focus on character development. A parent's review highlights that the school teaches "qualities like respect, discipline, and focus," which are essential for raising mentally and physically strong children. This emphasis on core values is a testament to the school's belief that martial arts training is about building better people, not just better fighters. The loyalty of the student body, with some members having trained there for decades, speaks volumes about the quality of the instruction and the strength of the community. This enduring loyalty is a rarity and provides a powerful endorsement of the school's positive and transformative environment.

Finally, the school’s commitment to providing a welcoming environment for everyone makes it an excellent choice. The presence of a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot shows a genuine dedication to inclusivity. While membership is required, the quality of the training and the depth of the community make it a worthwhile investment. The school’s curriculum is designed to challenge and inspire, and the supportive atmosphere ensures that every student, whether a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, has the tools they need to succeed. For anyone in the Los Angeles area looking for a martial arts school with a rich history, a commitment to tradition, and a focus on holistic personal growth, the INTERNATIONAL KARATE ASSOCIATION, INC. is a truly superior choice.

INTERNATIONAL KARATE ASSOCIATION, INC.

3301 N Verdugo Rd, Glendale, CA 91208, USA