Respect. Discipline. Confidence. Fitness. Fun.
Welcome to
Okotoks Karate
An affordable karate dojo in Okotoks, AB offering high-quality martial arts instruction and classes for all ages, with a focus on traditional Okinawan training
April 13, 2024
Open for tournament practice
Join Sensei Steve for free drop-in training from 11 am to 1 pm on Saturdays, leading up to the spring tourney.
April 20, 2024
OKOTOKS KARATE SPRING TOURNAMENT
Celebrate Sensei Steve’s birthday by giving it your all and facing off with your friends in Okotoks Karate’s first-ever in-house tournament!
Have fun and compete in up to three categories of competition:
- Individual kata
- Team kata (2-3)
- Weapons kata
Schedule goes by age group:
- Ages 4-9 @ 10 am – Noon
- Ages 10+ @ Noon – 2pm
Entry fee is $5 with proceeds going to charity.
Sign up sheets are available at the dojo.
The student who wins the most competitions takes the grand prize. Medals are presented to winners within their age group and by belt colour grouping.
About Okotoks Karate
Meet 'Sensei Steve'
Owner/Chief instructor
Steve Vinden has over 40 years of martial arts experience under his belt and 25 years as an instructor.
He teaches traditional Okinawan Karate, which is viewed as a way of life and a method of self defense, rather than a competitive sport.
Steve opened Okotoks Karate in November 2011. He is a proud father of two boys, a veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces and has been an RMT since 1995.
All students are welcome
There's a class for all ages and skill levels
Ages 4-5
What a difference karate can make in the life of a youngster. Even the littlest members of the dojo will see improved focus, fitness, coordination, respect and much more, with this gentle and fun introduction.
Ages 6-9
Things get a little more focused with older children, as kids learn the true importance of discipline and respect in the dojo—and in life. Children start to master the more technical aspects of karate training.
Ages 10-15
It's not easy being a teen (or almost-teen) these days. At Okotoks Karate, adolescents build up the skills they need to become truly awesome adults: Discipline. Perseverance. Commitment. Confidence.
16+/Adults
Whether you're new to karate, picking up on a passion from years ago, or a practicing black belt, you'll fit right in. Don't let your age or fitness level stand in the way of self improvement. It's great exercise and super fun.
Looking to get started or learn more?
Solid training,
no gimmicks
Some dojos sell belts.
At Okotoks Karate, belts are earned.
So, what else sets us apart?
- Super affordable rates
- A six-day schedule offering lots of flexibility
- A welcoming community
- 25+ years teaching experience
- High-quality instruction that includes lessons on Japanese culture and history
- Traditional Okinawan training
What's in it for me?
Discipline and focus
Karate emphasizes the importance of respect, self-control, and focus as students learn to actively listen, stay committed to their goals even when challenged or obstructed.
Self-defense skills
At Okotoks Karate, we teach practical, hands-on skills that are applicable in real-world situations. We're not about entering competitions; we're about teaching you to defend yourself so you don't lose a fight when there is no other option.
Fitness gains
Punching, kicking and blocking provides an amazing full-body workout! Karate improves heart health, muscle strength, tone, and increases flexibility.
Most of all, it's fun
Okotoks Karate is a welcoming, encouraging, positive environment. We want you (and your kids) to look forward to class—every time.. While we do take karate seriously, humour and fun play an important part in our dojo.