Business Details
45 Years
experience
Expert Karate Training in Chito Ryu Style
Taneda Karate Dojo was founded in 1981 with a commitment to preserving the traditional Chito Ryu karate style while adapting to modern needs. Our philosophy emphasizes personal excellence, discipline, and respect, fostering growth in both martial arts and daily life. With locations in Kelowna, West Kelowna, Summerland, and Penticton, we serve diverse communities through structured training programs. Our instructors, including internationally recognized leaders like Sensei Chris Taneda, bring decades of expertise and competitive success. We prioritize holistic development, combining technical skill with character building, and have produced over 100 black belts globally.Our dojo has hosted national and international tournaments, nurturing champions while maintaining strong ties to the Chito Ryu lineage. We integrate educational kinesiology and wellness practices to enhance learning and physical health. Community engagement remains central, with initiatives supporting local events and youth development. Our legacy includes induction into the Central Okanagan Sports Hall of Fame and recognition as Citizens of the Year. We continue to evolve while honoring the principles established by our founders, ensuring accessible, high-quality martial arts education for all ages.
Services
Karate Classes
Children's Programs
Competitive Training
Summer Camps
Adult Martial Arts
Details
- Year established: 1981
Highlights and features
- 40+ years of experience in Chito Ryu karate instruction
- Internationally recognized instructors with Olympic and World Championship credentials
- Community-focused programs with local and global competition opportunities
- Holistic approach combining martial arts with character development
- Proven track record producing national and international champions
Associations and certifications
- Karate BC
- Karate Canada
What people say
Amazing experience
Supportive team
Best shape since 20
Lifelong benefits
Positive balance of tradition
Services
Karate Classes
Our Chito Ryu karate classes emphasize foundational techniques like punches, blocks, and stances while incorporating modern self-defense applications. Students train in traditional forms (kata) and practical combat scenarios. The curriculum balances physical conditioning with mental discipline, preparing participants for competitive and personal growth.
Children's Programs
Structured programs for children focus on age-appropriate skill development, fostering confidence and respect through karate fundamentals. Classes integrate educational kinesiology to enhance learning and physical coordination. Instructors prioritize safety while nurturing discipline and teamwork in a supportive environment.
Competitive Training
Advanced students receive specialized coaching for regional, national, and international competitions. Training includes sparring (kumite), kata precision, and strategic analysis. Our athletes have earned recognition at World Championships and Pan American Games, reflecting our competitive excellence.
Summer Camps
Annual summer camps combine intensive karate training with team-building activities and character development exercises. Participants engage in skill drills, leadership workshops, and collaborative challenges designed to reinforce martial arts principles in a dynamic setting.
Adult Martial Arts
Adult programs cater to all experience levels, focusing on practical self-defense, physical fitness, and stress reduction. Classes maintain traditional Chito Ryu principles while adapting techniques for mature learners, promoting lifelong wellness and confidence.
People
Chris Taneda
Sensei, 7th Degree Black Belt
Kyoshi Nanadan 7th Degree Black Belt, highest-ranking Chito Ryu instructor outside Japan. Six-time Canadian National Kumite Champion and four-time Chito-Ryu World Champion. Inducted into the Central Okanagan Sports Hall of Fame.
Cheryl Taneda
Senpai Sandan 3rd Degree Black Belt
Award-winning instructor and competitor with expertise in yoga and special education. First Canadian female to win international medals in WUKO events. Recognized for grassroots coaching and community contributions.
Mike Ditson
Shidoin Yondan 4th Degree Black Belt
30-year dojo member and former Chito-Ryu Kata World Champion. Head Coach for the BC Karate Team and multiple Karate BC Coach of the Year award recipient. Active in national and international competition coaching.
Michelle Cowan
Senpai Yondan 4th Degree Black Belt
Two-time National Black Belt Champion and Junior Goodwill Games gold medalist. Oversees children's programs and Thompson Okanagan team coaching. Holds leadership roles in regional karate associations.
Tania Reid
Senpai Sandan 3rd Degree Black Belt
Five-time Soke Cup competitor and 2004 Women's Black Belt Grand Champion. City of Kelowna building inspector and advocate for youth development through martial arts. Trains with her family in the dojo.
Questions
What karate style does Taneda Dojo teach?
We specialize in Chito Ryu, a traditional Okinawan style emphasizing foundational techniques, kata, and practical self-defense applications.
Are classes available for children?
Yes, we offer structured programs for all ages, including specialized children's classes focusing on discipline, coordination, and confidence-building.
Can students compete in tournaments?
Yes, we provide competitive training and regularly participate in regional, national, and international events like the Chito Ryu World Championships.
Are there multiple dojo locations?
We operate in Kelowna, West Kelowna, Summerland, and Penticton to serve Okanagan Valley communities effectively.
What qualifications do instructors hold?
Our instructors include 7th Degree Black Belt Sensei Chris Taneda and multiple national champions with decades of competitive and teaching experience.
Does the dojo offer summer programs?
Yes, our annual summer camps combine martial arts training with team-building activities and character development exercises for all skill levels.
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