Birch Bay Shotokan Karate members pose for a quick shot before practice.
About the Birch Bay Shotokan Karate Dojo
The Birch Bay Dojo is comprised of men, women, adults, and children from all ages and backgrounds. The dojo is lead by instructor Eric Henry, who has been practicing karate since 1993. Our dojo is affliated with Shotokan Karate of America (SKA), a non-profit organization dedicated to teaching traditional karate-do.
Asriel blocks and counters an attack from Eric Henry.
We are closely linked with other dojos and karateka in the SKA and practice frequently with other SKA members in the Pacific Northwest. The SKA is lead by Shihan Tsutomu Ohshima, a direct student of Master Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of modern day karate. All SKA members have opportunities to practice with Mr. Ohshima and attend other events and practices around the globe with other SKA affiliated dojos. The majority of our members have practiced with Mr. Ohshima directly. This gives our dojo very genuine roots to the heart of karate practice. We strive to strengthen body, mind and spirit, perfect character, and faithfully transmit the art to future generations.
Benefits of Karate Practice
Karate can be practiced by everyone at any age for self-defense, to strengthen the entire body, improve balance, efficiency of movement, breathing and overall health. No special equipment is needed.
Members continually practice stretching, increasing blood flow and improving flexibility.
Karate helps to strengthen the mind, develop courage, fortitude, and the ability to achieve goals.
Karate practice emphasizes spiritual values of courtesy, integrity, humility, justice, honor, and self-control.
The study of karate benefits the student in all areas of their life.
Young members meditate after karate practice.
Welcome Newcomers!
We are so glad that you are interested in joining Birch Bay Shotokan Karate Dojo.
New members are welcomed to the dojo. Though it may seem intimidating at first, new members quickly see the more experienced members have not forgotten what it is like to begin something new.
Joining is easy – just visit any of our practices here in Birch Bay at the Parks and Recreation Center! There is no charge to observe or to practice with us once or twice. After that, if you decide to stay, you must join Shotokan Karate of America ($75 for the rest of this year) and then just pay $20 dojo dues at the beginning of each month to help us cover rent. As a member of SKA you will be able to attend any SKA regional, national, and international event open to your rank, and you’ll be able to test for rank twice per year at no charge. Black belt testing is also free, but by invitation only.
To win one hundred victories in one hundred battles is not the highest skill. To subdue the enemy without fighting is the highest skill.” — Master Gichin Funakoshi
Beginners are always welcome. No experience is necessary. Classes are offered twice a week.
Fees:
- Drop In (for non-members) — $5/session
- Individual for a Month — $40
- Family for a Month — $100
- SKA Membership — $75 for the first year connects you to fellow karateka all around the world, including Mr. Ohshima.
Time & Location:
- Blaine & Birch Bay Activity Center
- Northwest Parks and Recreation District 2
7511 Gemini Street
Blaine, WA 98230 - Tuesdays 4:30-6:30PM, Thursdays 4:30-6:00PM
