Karate-Do Ken Wa Kan

- 34 W 15th St Ground floor, New York, NY 10011

For families and individuals in New York City seeking a place to grow in mind, body, and spirit, Karate-Do Ken Wa Kan is an exceptional choice. This isn't just a karate school; it's a community, a family, and a haven for personal transformation. Led by the dynamic mother-daughter team of Shihan Michelle and Sensei Zelda Gay, this women-owned business is a true gem in the heart of the city. The dojo offers much more than just physical training; it provides a supportive and empowering environment where students of all ages and backgrounds can find their strength. From summer camps that provide a structured and educational summer experience to after-school programs that offer a safe and engaging alternative to traditional childcare, Karate-Do Ken Wa Kan is a versatile and essential resource for New Yorkers. It is a place where you can learn traditional Japanese Karate, build life-changing confidence, and become a part of a community that truly cares about your success.

The philosophy at Karate-Do Ken Wa Kan is a powerful blend of discipline, compassion, and personal growth. The dojo's leaders, Shihan Michelle and Sensei Zelda, are known for meeting students "where you’re at" and proving to them that they "can do anything." The testimonials from real customers speak volumes about the profound impact of this approach. One father recounts the life-altering experience of his 16-year-old daughter, who, after a difficult situation, found a home and a sense of empowerment at the dojo, stating that she now feels confident "in my body, and in my mind." This sentiment is echoed by many who find that the dojo's training is not only challenging but also incredibly rewarding. It is a place where every class is "amazing, challenging and exciting," and where the teachers are "very hands on and helpful." The environment is consistently described as friendly and inclusive, with a powerful sense of community and family. This dedication to holistic development—teaching personal protection while building confidence, respect, and a sense of belonging—is what makes Ken Wa Kan so much more than a typical martial arts school.

Karate-Do Ken Wa Kan is conveniently located at 34 W 15th St, Ground floor, New York, NY 10011, USA, placing it in a prime and accessible spot for residents of Manhattan and the surrounding boroughs. Its location in a bustling part of the city makes it easy to reach by public transportation or on foot. The academy is committed to being an inclusive space, which is reflected in its accessibility features. It has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that the benefits of traditional karate are available to people with mobility challenges. Additionally, the dojo is a designated LGBTQ+ friendly and Transgender safespace, further cementing its reputation as a welcoming and respectful environment for all. The presence of a gender-neutral restroom and a standard restroom adds to the comfort and convenience for all students. This commitment to inclusivity, combined with its central location, makes Karate-Do Ken Wa Kan a beacon of community and support in New York City.

Karate-Do Ken Wa Kan offers a comprehensive suite of services that cater to a diverse range of needs, from foundational martial arts training to specialized programs for children and teens. The dojo’s curriculum is designed to be both rigorous and rewarding, providing students with the skills and confidence they need to succeed both on and off the mat.

The services offered include:

• Traditional Japanese Karate training, a beautiful and effective martial art.
• A Kids Program and Children's Karate classes, which focus on building discipline and confidence from a young age.
• Teen Karate Classes and a Teen Karate Program, designed to engage and challenge young adults.
• Karate Classes for Adults, offering a path to fitness, self-defense, and personal growth for older students.
• A Black Belt Course for dedicated students aiming to achieve the highest level of mastery.
• Personal Protection and Self-Defense training to equip students with practical skills.
• Day Camps and Summer Camps, providing a fun and educational activity for children during school breaks.
• After School Programs, which offer a safe and engaging environment for kids.
• Special events like Birthday Parties.
• Opportunities for a Trial Class to help newcomers get a feel for the dojo's environment.
• Flexible options with both Online Classes and Onsite services.

Karate-Do Ken Wa Kan stands out with several key features that are consistently praised by its community. These attributes highlight the dojo’s unique character and its commitment to student success and well-being.

• Identifies as women-owned, with a powerful and inspiring leadership team in Shihan Michelle and Sensei Zelda.
• A strong sense of community and family, where every student feels welcome and supported.
• Wheelchair-accessible entrance, promoting inclusivity for individuals with mobility challenges.
• Designated as LGBTQ+ friendly and a Transgender safespace, ensuring a respectful and welcoming environment for all.
• Offers both in-person and online classes, providing flexibility for students with varying schedules.
• Accepts debit cards for convenient payments.
• A focus on both physical skills and personal growth, including leadership training.

For those ready to join this incredible community, here is the essential contact information for Karate-Do Ken Wa Kan.

Address: 34 W 15th St Ground floor, New York, NY 10011, USA

Phone: (212) 677-7228

What is worth choosing Karate-Do Ken Wa Kan? The choice is clear for New Yorkers who are looking for more than just a place to work out. This dojo is a transformative space, as evidenced by the powerful testimonials from its students. It is a place where a 52-year-old can achieve a Brown/Black Belt, and a 16-year-old can find life-changing confidence. The leadership of Shihan Michelle and Sensei Zelda is truly exceptional, as they have created a "Dojo Of Love. And Badassery." The commitment to inclusivity, with its status as a women-owned business and a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community, makes it a modern and progressive institution rooted in traditional values. For parents, the summer camps and after-school programs are a major draw, providing children with a safe, fun, and educational environment. For adults, it is a place to push your limits, learn practical self-defense, and find a community that feels like home. The option of online classes and the convenience of its location further add to its appeal. In a city as large as New York, finding a place that feels like family is a rare treasure, and Karate-Do Ken Wa Kan is exactly that. It is "home."

Karate-Do Ken Wa Kan

34 W 15th St Ground floor, New York, NY 10011, USA