5.0 stars from 7 Google reviews

Morning Star Karate is a true hidden gem. From the moment you walk in, you’re welcomed like part of the team. The training is genuinely traditional and grounded in hard work, discipline, and real growth. Sensei Pete’s lifelong dedication to the art is clear in every class, and having access to this level of authentic instruction is rare. If you want a place that feels like home and delivers true martial arts training, this is it.

Finding a martial arts school that truly prioritizes individual growth over sales targets can be tough, but Morning Star Karate is exactly that place. My experience there has been incredibly positive.

From the moment you walk in, you notice the absence of high-pressure sales and the overwhelming feeling of a huge, impersonal class. Instead, Sensei Pete provides truly personalized instruction in a small class environment. This makes a huge difference; he genuinely focuses on each student’s needs, allowing everyone to progress at their own pace. It’s a fantastic atmosphere for both kids and adults — welcoming and supportive.

Morning Star teaches traditional Shorinjiryu Karate, and you can tell they stay true to its roots. The focus is always on building a strong foundation of fundamentals, which I’ve found essential for real progress. Beyond the techniques, you’ll see a noticeable improvement in your confidence and physical fitness.

Training at Morning Star Karate has been a fantastic decision! Tuition is very reasonable. The instructor has been practicing for many years, and truly enjoys his students, and teaching. The classes are small, allowing for individualized attention, and instruction. Being 50+ myself, I truly appreciate the time sensei spends to help me work to the best of my abilities, and to improve my abilities!

A hidden gem for anyone who values traditional martial arts.

I’ve been training here for over 6 years. The school teaches Shorinjiryu Karate and Tomiki Aikido, along with bo and jo staff work, which is something you don’t often find taught. I especially enjoy the Aikido, as it is very similar to the style of Japanese Jujitsu, which I studied years ago.

Sensei Pete is a great instructor who’s deeply rooted in traditional Japanese martial arts. He has a teaching style that’s structured, thoughtful, and very respectful of Japanese culture and his ability to give individualized attention in each class means that, regardless of your background or experience level, you’ll get guidance tailored to where you’re at. It’s very much a “you get out what you put in” environment, which I love.

The karate style might feel a bit different at first, but it becomes really enjoyable once it clicks, especially the focus on timing, distancing, and applied techniques.

Morning Star Martial Arts is a community treasure. Sensei Pete is a very talented instructor teaching traditional karate and some self-defense and in turn growing our discipline, respect, and confidence.