08/25/2026
Have you ever wanted to try karate? Now’s your chance!
Join Grand River Karate on Saturday, September 19 from 9:30 am to 10:30am for a FREE trial class at Mary Allan Park in Waterloo (95 Allen St E, Waterloo, ON N2J 1J5)
Whether you’re completely new to karate or just curious to see what it’s all about, come out and give it a try! You’ll have the opportunity to meet new friends, learn new skills, and discover whether karate is right for you.
You don’t need to be super fit! Our class is designed to be fun, enjoyable, and safe, with something for everyone.
Bring the family! Participants are welcome from 8 years old and up.
What to wear: Comfortable shoes, and comfortable clothing,
What to bring: Water and sunscreen if it’s sunny, your enthusiasm and your karate spirit!
Weather note: If we experience inclement weather, the class will move indoors to our dojo, located just across the park at St. Louis Auditorium, 77 Willow Street, Waterloo.
Please arrive 10–15 minutes early to complete and sign a participation waiver.
Come join us, have some fun, and try something new!
08/24/2026
Iha Sensei remarked that even until his last months, Chibana Sensei was proud of his steel-like forearms. He also said that Chibana had a way of blocking that unbalanced the attacker immediately upon contact if the attacker was strong. Of course anyone who punched Iha experienced this same sensation.
08/23/2026
FALL REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!
Kids and Parent Karate Program
Teaching for over 30 years.
This unique program is family oriented, giving parents the option to train with their children. It is non-competitive and focuses on self-defence, fitness and the enhancement of life skills. Classes are taught by experienced black belts who provide exceptional instruction. Sign Up Now!
https://www.grandriverkarate.com/
08/21/2026
Strong friendship! Ten years apart, these karate senseis—Torsten Huhse, Bob Davis, Fortunato Restagno and Klaus Stegner—share a strong, enduring friendship. They have all made significant contributions to Grand River Karate and its members. They continue to train to maintain their health and well-being. We were fortunate to train in Okinawa Shidokan under Seikichi Iha, an advocate of longevity. He enhanced karate to be effective, efficient and accessible as we age. Self-defence often involves protecting ourselves from ourselves. Beikoku Shidokan Karatedo Association promotes this philosophy. Making friends, staying healthy!
08/21/2026
Joy was at the heart of Iha Sensei’s karate. He often said you come back to the dojo because it makes you happy to see your friends there.
08/19/2026
Check out this powerful and insightful video that highlights the deeper meaning behind the Five Precepts of Shidokan:
To strive for perfection of character
To defend the paths of truth
To foster the spirit of effort
To honour and respect one’s fellows
To guard against impetuous courage
These teachings remind us that the true journey of martial arts extends far beyond technique. It is a lifelong path of self-improvement, where we continue to develop our character, strengthen our spirit, and strive to become better versions of ourselves both as martial artists and as individuals.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aq92sWWU4FM