SMAK bear-crest logo SMAK DojoSyracuse Martial Arts Kenkyukai
Now accepting new students in Syracuse, NY
Syracuse Martial Arts Kenkyukai crest

Est. Okinawa Goju-ryu · Syracuse, NY

Welcome to Syracuse Martial Arts Kenkyukai

Come and try one of our exciting programs. We have specific programs designed for youth, adults and competitive athletes.

Who we are

A leader in martial arts instruction in the Syracuse area

Syracuse Martial Arts Kenkyukai is an official Shibu-dojo (authorized representative) of the world-reknowned Okinawa Goju-ryu Karate-do Kenkyukai Dojo in Okinawa, Japan and has been a leader in martial arts instruction in the Syracuse area for several years.

Kids & Youth

Our kids and youth members focus on character development, coordination, agility, strength and fundamental karate skills.

Teens & Adults

Our teens and adults focus on traditional and authentic Okinawan Goju-ryu Karate-do as currently taught in Okinawa, Japan.

Competitive Athletes

Our competitive athletes train for participation in all levels of the exciting sport of traditional karate, from regional qualifying events to national championships and placement on the US National Team.

Our programs

Get started with karate training for you or your child

SMAK Olympic Sport Karate crest

Olympic Sport Karate

Competition & team training
Sport Karate takes basic traditional principles and combines them with modern scientific sport methods to achieve competitive success. Being a member of the USA National Karate Federation, we compete and train under the guidance of the USA Olympic Committee. Our team medals at local, national, and international competitions. Join us and achieve success in the exciting sport of Olympic-style karate!
SMAK Okinawan Goju-ryu Karate crest

Okinawan Karate

Traditional Goju-ryu
We practice Okinawa Goju Ryu karate, a traditional Okinawan style and are the Shibu dojo, official representative of Masaji Taira Sensei. Major emphasis is given to learning kata (traditional karate forms), breathing correctly, practicing methods that include body strengthening and conditioning.
SMAK Aikido crest

Aikido

The way of harmonious spirit
Aikido is a Japanese martial art developed by Morihei Ueshiba and translates as “the way of harmonious spirit.” Aikido techniques consist of entering and turning movements to redirect an opponent’s attack, to be thrown or joint locked. We emphasize realistic Aikido practice.
SMAK Kettlebell crest

Kettlebell

Strength & power generation
Kettlebell (or гиря) training builds strength, endurance, body coordination, and core power. Training is geared towards martial art development and power generation. Our classes are open to all ages.
USA Karate — United States Olympic Committee

Competition pathway

Training under the USA National Karate Federation

Syracuse Martial Arts Kenkyukai is the only local karate school that prepares its members for USANKF competition and possible national team selection. Our team competes and trains under the guidance of the USA Olympic Committee.

Class schedule

Stop by to visit during one of our scheduled classes

Please stop by during any of our class times if you’re interested in training. If arriving for your first class, please plan to arrive at least 15 to 20 minutes early.

Time Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
9:00–10:30 AM Aikido
5:45–6:30 PM Kids Karate Kids Karate Traditional Karate
6:30–7:30 PM Sport Karate Aikido Sport Karate Aikido Sport Karate
7:30–8:30 PM Traditional Karate Team Training Traditional Karate Kettlebell Fitness

Class times are transcribed from the dojo’s posted class-schedule chart. View the original schedule →

What to wear

Wear comfortable work-out clothes or a martial arts uniform for your first session.

Arrive early

Classes start promptly, so make sure you’re ready to go on time for every class. Plan to arrive 15 to 20 minutes early for your first class.

Winter weather

During winter months, we cancel classes when Syracuse City Schools close or cancel after-school activities due to weather. Closings are announced on local radio and TV and at 9wsyr.com.

In their words

Why our members train here

Students of the SMAK Dojo will receive the latest developments in sport-karate as they benefit from instructors’ experiences on the U.S. National Team.

— Eric H.

Joining Syracuse Martial Arts Kenkyukai has easily been one of the best decisions I have made in this lifetime. Not only am I surrounded by amazing people, I am keeping fit and learning a discipline that I plan to practice as long as I am able to.

— Stacey M.

I cannot overstate the value of the kettlebell workout. As a 65 year old I can guarantee that the health benefits of kettle bell weight training are excellent. Weight training should be part of any workout routine. Kettle bell training has made a great difference in my life. Give it a try!

— Peter S.

I cannot express the benefits that SMAK Dojo and Sensei Sergey have provided for my son.only has it kept him in great shape, but it has given him discipline, opportunities to travel and compete with people from all over the world, and be a part of a very strong dojo community. The changes in my son have been remarkable, allowing him to develop and bring out the very best in himself.

— Andy M.

Visit & contact

Come train with us on Seeley Road

Request an intro session

Send us a note and we’ll get back to you to schedule an introductory session — or just call us at (315) 313-GOJU for an immediate response.

Prefer to call? Reach us at (315) 313-GOJU (4658).