Old Greenwich Karate/Okinawa Arts

- St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 200 Riverside Ave, Riverside, CT 06878

Old Greenwich Karate/Okinawa Arts, located in Riverside, Connecticut, is a distinguished martial arts school that offers far more than just self-defense training. It is an institution that focuses on the holistic development of its students, cultivating crucial life skills such as discipline, respect, perseverance, and hard work. For over two decades, under the guidance of the highly-regarded Sensei Rick and his caring team, this school has become a second home for countless local families. It’s a place where children and adults alike can embark on a transformative journey, building not only physical strength but also mental fortitude and character. The school's philosophy is rooted in a deep commitment to nurturing the "whole child," ensuring that every student's well-being is a top priority.

The glowing testimonials from current and former students paint a clear picture of the profound impact this school has had on their lives. One former student, who began at the age of seven and continued through high school, credits their success as an adult to their time at Old Greenwich Karate. They describe Sensei Rick as a "father figure" and the experience as one that "shaped my life in an incredibly positive way." The warm, patient, and loving atmosphere created by Sensei Rick and Jacqui Zimmerman makes it a unique and welcoming environment for everyone, from shy beginners to advanced students. Their dedication to proper technique is matched by their commitment to personal growth, making Old Greenwich Karate the perfect choice for anyone in the Connecticut area looking for a supportive and enriching activity.

Old Greenwich Karate/Okinawa Arts is conveniently housed within St. Paul's Episcopal Church, at 200 Riverside Ave, Riverside, CT 06878, USA. This location makes it easily accessible for families in Riverside and surrounding areas of Connecticut, including Old Greenwich. The location offers a peaceful and dedicated space for training, away from the typical commercial gym setting. One of the key features of the location is its accessibility, with a wheelchair-accessible parking lot that ensures the school is open to all members of the community. The presence of a clean restroom also adds to the comfort and convenience of all students and visitors. While onsite services are offered, it’s worth noting that an appointment is required to ensure that each prospective student receives the personalized attention they deserve. The location within a church also speaks to the school's commitment to creating a safe and community-focused environment.

Old Greenwich Karate/Okinawa Arts provides a range of programs and services designed for diverse age groups and skill levels.

• Karate Classes: Comprehensive instruction in the art of Karate, focusing on both physical techniques and the discipline and philosophy behind the martial art.

• Children's Classes: Specifically designed to be engaging and fun for young students, these classes introduce the fundamentals of karate while instilling crucial life skills like self-control, focus, and respect.

• Kids Karate: The program is highly praised for its effectiveness with children of all ages, as seen in the testimony of one student whose sister started at just three years old and went on to become a multi-degree black belt.

• Adult Classes: These programs cater to adult students who want to learn a new skill, improve their physical fitness, or find a unique way to relieve stress and challenge themselves.

• Family Classes: A special program that allows parents and children to train together, creating a shared experience and strengthening family bonds through mutual learning and support.

• Self-Defense Training: The curriculum includes practical self-defense techniques, empowering students with the skills and confidence to protect themselves in real-world situations.

• Summer Camp: A highly popular program that combines engaging martial arts training with other fun and creative activities, making for a memorable and productive summer for kids.

Several key features and highlights make Old Greenwich Karate/Okinawa Arts a top choice for families in the region.

• Experienced and Caring Instructors: Sensei Rick is described as a "warm, sweet, patient, funny, WONDERFUL with kids, and an all around amazing person." His approach, along with that of Jacqui Zimmerman, who is "loving, talented and caring," creates a nurturing and effective learning environment.

• Emphasis on Life Skills: The school is equally concerned with "the whole child's well being" as it is with "proper technique." The testimonials highlight the school's success in teaching invaluable skills like discipline, respect, and perseverance.

• Highly Recommended by Lifelong Students: The strong bond formed with instructors is evident in a review from a former student who credits their career success to the lessons learned at the school, providing powerful validation for the program's long-term benefits.

• Family-Like Atmosphere: Customers frequently describe the school as feeling like "family," which fosters a strong sense of community and support among students. This welcoming environment helps new students feel comfortable and motivated.

• Comprehensive Programs: The variety of classes, from kids' and adult programs to family classes and summer camps, ensures that there is a perfect fit for everyone's needs.

• Accessibility: The wheelchair-accessible parking lot demonstrates the school's commitment to being an inclusive space for all members of the community.

For those interested in learning more or scheduling an appointment to visit, here is the official contact information.

Address: St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 200 Riverside Ave, Riverside, CT 06878, USA

Phone: (203) 637-2685

Mobile Phone: +1 203-637-2685

For families in the Old Greenwich and Riverside area of Connecticut, choosing Old Greenwich Karate/Okinawa Arts is an investment in a child’s or adult’s long-term well-being and success. What makes this school particularly worth choosing is the unparalleled leadership and care provided by Sensei Rick and his team. Their unique ability to be patient, funny, and warm while maintaining a serious commitment to proper technique and discipline is a rare and valuable combination. The heartfelt testimonials from students who have been part of the "OGK team" for years speak volumes, crediting their success as adults to the life skills they learned there. This level of impact is not something found at every martial arts studio.

Furthermore, the school's focus on the "whole child's well being" and its family-like atmosphere create an environment where students don't just learn a skill, they become part of a supportive community. The variety of classes, including options for children, adults, and the entire family, makes it a convenient and enriching activity for everyone. The popular after-school programs and summer camps provide constructive and engaging alternatives to traditional childcare. The physical location within a church and the wheelchair-accessible parking lot also demonstrate a commitment to safety, community, and inclusivity. Ultimately, if you are looking for a place that will help your child or yourself build confidence, self-defense skills, and a strong character, Old Greenwich Karate/Okinawa Arts offers an experience that is both highly effective and profoundly positive.

Old Greenwich Karate/Okinawa Arts

St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 200 Riverside Ave, Riverside, CT 06878, USA