Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Expert Martial Arts & Cardio Kickboxing in London, Ontario
Bernardo Karate & Cardio Kickboxing has been a trusted leader in martial arts and fitness training for over four decades. Founded by Hanshi Michael Bernardo, a 9th Degree Black Belt and internationally recognized martial artist, our mission is to empower individuals of all ages through disciplined instruction in karate, cardio kickboxing, and character development. With six convenient locations across London and surrounding areas, we provide a supportive environment where students cultivate physical fitness, mental resilience, and core values like respect, confidence, and self-discipline.Our team of certified black belt instructors brings decades of combined experience, ensuring personalized guidance tailored to each student's goals. Recognized as London's Best Gym by the Canadian Choice Award, we emphasize holistic growth through programs like Striving 4 Excellence, which integrates martial arts training with character-building principles. Whether you're seeking self-defense skills, competitive training, or a transformative fitness journey, our community fosters lifelong success both inside and outside the dojo.
Services
Karate Classes
Cardio Kickboxing
Character Development
Bully Busters Workshop
Kettlebell Training
Details
- Year established: 1972
Highlights and features
- 40+ years of martial arts expertise with certified black belt instructors
- Award-winning programs recognized as London's Best Gym by Canadian Choice Award
- Six convenient locations serving London and surrounding communities
- Holistic Striving 4 Excellence character development curriculum
- Safe, inclusive environment for all skill levels and age groups
Associations and certifications
- World Karate Commission
What people say
Caring instructors
Positive environment
Improved confidence
Family-friendly
Effective training
Services
Karate Classes
Structured karate programs for ages 4+ focusing on physical fitness, self-defense, and character development. Classes emphasize discipline, respect, and goal-setting through belt progression. Instructors adapt techniques for all skill levels while maintaining traditional martial arts principles.
Cardio Kickboxing
High-energy workouts combining kickboxing techniques with cardiovascular conditioning. Sessions improve strength, flexibility, and endurance while reducing stress. Led by certified black belt instructors using safe, effective methods for all fitness levels.
Character Development
Striving 4 Excellence curriculum teaches respect, confidence, and self-discipline through monthly themes and practical application. Includes workbooks and activities reinforcing positive traits at home, school, and community settings.
Bully Busters Workshop
Specialized program teaching children to recognize, avoid, and respond to bullying situations. Combines awareness training with practical self-defense techniques in a supportive environment that builds confidence and safety skills.
Kettlebell Training
Functional strength and conditioning classes using kettlebells to improve core stability, muscular endurance, and overall fitness. Certified instructors guide proper form and progressive training suitable for all experience levels.
People
Michael Bernardo
9th Degree Black Belt & Founder
With over 45 years of martial arts experience, Michael Bernardo is a 10-time North American champion and inductee of the Black Belt Magazine Hall of Fame. He established Bernardo Karate in 1972, developing award-winning programs that combine traditional karate with modern fitness techniques.
Tammy Bernardo
6th Degree Black Belt & Kettlebell Instructor
A 17-time world champion, Tammy Bernardo specializes in cardio kickboxing and kettlebell training. She holds multiple certifications from the RKC and IKFF, bringing expertise in strength conditioning and functional fitness to Bernardo Karate's programs.
Tom Roberts
5th Degree Black Belt & Head Instructor
With 17 world championship titles, Tom Roberts leads the Dearness location while training students in competitive karate. His 35+ years of experience focus on technical precision and tournament preparation for local and international competitions.
Dennis McFadden
7th Degree Black Belt & Weapons Specialist
A dedicated instructor since 1985, Dennis McFadden developed the dojo's weapons system and self-defense seminars. His 38-year journey from orange belt to 7th degree black belt emphasizes lifelong learning and community education.
Holly Kenny
5th Degree Black Belt & St. Thomas Director
With 20 years of martial arts experience and 14 years teaching, Holly Kenny combines traditional karate with Shaolin Kung Fu expertise. She leads the St. Thomas location, focusing on accessible, family-friendly instruction.
Questions
Does martial arts make children violent?
No, our programs emphasize peace and conflict avoidance. Students learn self-defense techniques while developing discipline and respect to prevent confrontations.
Can non-athletic children participate?
Absolutely. Martial arts builds coordination and strength gradually. Our non-competitive programs allow students to progress at their own pace without pressure.
What fitness benefits does karate provide?
Karate improves balance, flexibility, cardiovascular health, and muscular strength. The full-body workouts enhance endurance and motor skills through coordinated movements.
Are kettlebell classes suitable for beginners?
Yes, our certified instructors adapt kettlebell training for all experience levels, focusing on proper form and progressive intensity to build functional strength safely.
How does the Bully Busters program work?
The program teaches awareness, avoidance strategies, and assertiveness techniques. Students practice real-world scenarios to build confidence and safe responses to bullying situations.
What makes Bernardo Karate unique?
Our combination of traditional martial arts, character development curriculum, and multiple locations creates a comprehensive approach to personal growth and fitness for all ages.
