Welcome to the Shotokan Karate Club of Hagerstown, where you will find a friendly, pleasant, non-threatening atmosphere in which to learn the art and philosophy of Shotokan Karate. Students develop poise, balance, discipline and self confidence while exercising every major muscle group in the body.

The Shotokan Karate Club of Hagerstown operates under the auspices of the Washington County Recreation Department Shotokan Karate Program. The primary mission of the club is to provide instruction and conduct periodic examinations which result in students obtaining membership in the East Coast Shotokan Karate Association (ECSKA) and the International Shotokan Karate Federation (ISKF).

The ISKF is a worldwide organization with headquarters in Philadelphia, PA. It is a non profit organization with clubs in more than 30 counties and has more than 50,000 members. The benefits of membership in the ISKF include instructions and exams by certified instructors and a dedicated support system.

Classes include three basic forms of training:

· Kihon (basics techniques)

· Kata (forms)

· Kumite (sparring)

Classes are available for students from eight years and above. Adults and children train separately, and classes are divided so that beginners, intermediate and advanced students are placed in classes that are commensurate with their skill level.

Examinations are conducted on the last class of each session for students below black belt and are administered by a certified ISKF instructor. Black belt exams are conducted by ISKF Chief Instructor Teruyuki Okazaki at headquarters in Philadelphia, PA.