Choose the Class
TRAINING PROGRAMS
Shorei-Kan USA offers traditional Okinawan karate and Kobudo classes at our headquarters in Cortlandt Manor, New York. Our programs welcome children, adult beginners, experienced martial artists, and seniors who train in the Adult classes. Each program follows a systematic curriculum that introduces foundational skills before progressing to more advanced material.
You do not need to understand the movements, terminology, or dojo customs before you begin. Review the three training paths below to find the program that best fits your age and interests. If you are uncertain where to start, contact us and we will help you choose an appropriate class.
Junior Karate
The Junior Karate program introduces younger students to the fundamentals of Shorei-Kan Okinawa Budo Kaisai-do. Instruction begins with foundational movement and techniques, then progresses gradually as students become ready for more complex material.
Classes use age-appropriate pacing and close instructor supervision. Students learn the positions, movements, and technical skills that form the basis of later training while becoming familiar with the customs and expectations of the dojo. The approach is structured and nonaggressive, with an emphasis on careful practice, courtesy, patience, and the use of techniques for defense.
Because every child begins with a different level of experience and readiness, parents are encouraged to ask which class is the best starting point. No Junior age range is listed here until the school confirms the official range.
Adult Karate
The Adult Karate program welcomes complete beginners as well as students with previous martial arts experience. Seniors train within the regular Adult classes, allowing students at different stages of life to study the same traditional system through instruction appropriate to their experience and ability.
Training follows a systematic and progressive approach to the techniques and principles of Okinawa Budo Kaisai-do. Students build a foundation through individual techniques, kata, prearranged sequences, partner practice, and practical applications before moving toward more advanced material under instructor direction.
Classes also include Daruma Taiso, a distinctive series of exercises and stretches used as part of Shorei-Kan training. Throughout the curriculum, students are taught the Budo principles of courtesy, humility, patience, and defense rather than aggression.
You do not need to arrive knowing the movements, terminology, or etiquette. The instructor will explain how to begin and guide your progress from the fundamentals forward.
Okinawa Kobudo
Okinawan Kobudo is the study of traditional Okinawan weaponry. At Shorei-Kan USA, it is taught as a developed martial arts curriculum rather than as a novelty or occasional addition to karate training.
The Shorei-Kai Kobudo system includes the Bo, Kai, Kama, Sai, Tonfa, Nunchaku, and Tecchu. Students learn the handling, movement, and formal practice associated with these traditional weapons through systematic instruction that develops from foundational material to more advanced study.
Prior karate experience and Shorei-Kan enrollment are not required to begin Kobudo. New students can contact the dojo to discuss the program, current class availability, and the most appropriate way to start.
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Which Program Is Right for You?
For a child or younger student: Begin with Junior Karate. The program introduces the fundamentals through age-appropriate, supervised instruction. Contact the dojo to confirm whether the class is appropriate for your child’s age.
For a teen or adult beginner: Choose Adult Karate. Complete beginners are welcome, and no prior knowledge of martial arts or dojo etiquette is required.
For an older adult or senior: Seniors are welcome in the regular Adult classes. Contact the dojo if you would like to discuss your experience or individual circumstances before attending.
For traditional weapons training: Choose Okinawan Kobudo. Students may begin without prior karate experience or Shorei-Kan enrollment.
Photo Gallery
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Your Instructor
Shihan Scott Lenzi
Chief Instructor, USA Representative
Classes at the Cortlandt Manor headquarters are led by Shihan Scott Lenzi. He began training under Shihan Toshio Tamano in 1972 and received his Shodan rank in 1974. He holds the rank of 8th Dan Black Belt in Budo Kaisai-do and 7th Dan Black Belt in Okinawan Kobudo.
Shihan Lenzi continues to study under Shihan Tamano as his most senior student. As Chief Instructor and USA Representative, he oversees the Shorei-Kan USA organization and provides students with direct instruction in the traditional system and lineage practiced at the dojo today.
Read Shihan Lenzi’s complete biography and the Shorei-Kan lineage.
Start Training at Shorei-Kan USA
Choosing the right program depends on your age, experience, and interests. Whether you are looking for Junior Karate, beginning martial arts as an adult, returning to training later in life, or exploring Okinawan Kobudo, Shorei-Kan USA can help you identify an appropriate starting point.
View the current Cortlandt Manor schedule to see available programs and class times. New students can also review the current introductory offers. If you are still unsure which class fits you or your child, call 914-739-7804 or contact the dojo before your first visit.