Business Details
38 Years
experience
Your Trusted Karate School in Nanaimo
Established in 1988, Shima Karate has been a cornerstone of the Nanaimo community, dedicated to teaching traditional Goju-Ryu Karate. Our dojo fosters personal growth through discipline, respect, and physical fitness, emphasizing values that extend beyond martial arts. We prioritize long-term development, guiding students from childhood to black belt readiness between ages 14-16. Our instructors, with decades of combined experience, focus on building confidence, integrity, and resilience in students of all ages. We offer family-friendly programs, flexible scheduling, and community events like karate-themed birthday parties. With over 150 black belts and two world champions trained, our legacy combines technical excellence with character development.Testimonials highlight our supportive environment, where students thrive academically, personally, and physically. We adhere to the principles of Karate BC and the International Karate-Do Goju Kai Association of Canada, ensuring authentic, high-quality instruction. Our facility in Nanaimo provides a clean, welcoming space for families to grow together. By integrating mental focus and physical training, we empower individuals to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. Shima Karate remains committed to nurturing future leaders through the timeless art of karate.
Services
Karate Classes
Birthday Parties
Competition Team
Schedules
Programs
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- 35 years of community service in Nanaimo
- Over 150 black belts trained, including 2 world champions
- Family discounts and flexible scheduling available
- Proven curriculum developing character and physical fitness
- Testimonials highlight lifelong benefits beyond martial arts
Associations and certifications
- Karate BC
- International Karate-Do Goju Kai Association of Canada
What people say
Lifelong benefits
Family-friendly
Expert instructors
Character development
Community bonds
Services
Karate Classes
Traditional Goju-Ryu Karate instruction for all ages, focusing on discipline, physical fitness, and character development. Classes emphasize respect, perseverance, and technical skill, preparing students for black belt readiness between ages 14-16. Our curriculum builds confidence and integrity through structured training.
Birthday Parties
Karate-themed birthday parties featuring an hour of fitness and games, followed by a celebration space for food and gifts. Instructors provide clean-up and guidance, with options for active students to wear black belts during their special day.
Competition Team
Advanced training for competitive martial artists, focusing on sparring, kata, and tournament strategies. Led by experienced instructors, the team has produced two world champions and numerous award-winning athletes since 1988.
People
Kurt Nordli
Head Instructor
Goju-Ryu 5th Dan with 35+ years of teaching experience. Born in New Zealand, he established Shima Karate in Nanaimo in 1988, emphasizing character development alongside martial arts training.
Brenda Nordli
Instructor
Nidan with decades of experience supporting youth development through karate. Co-founder of Shima Karate, she focuses on creating a welcoming environment for families and fostering student growth.
Dustin Schulz
Instructor
Sandan born and raised in Nanaimo. Specializes in youth programs, helping students build confidence and physical skills through structured martial arts training since 1996.
Questions
What age can children start karate classes?
Children typically begin at age 6-8 in our Junior or Samurai programs, with black belt readiness targeted between 14-16 years old.
Are there family discounts available?
Yes, we offer family discounts for multiple members enrolled simultaneously to support family participation in martial arts training.
Do you offer birthday party packages?
Yes, our karate-themed birthday parties include instruction, clean-up, and space for celebrations, accommodating up to 10 kids at $140 plus extras.
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialize in traditional Goju-Ryu Karate, focusing on balanced technical skill, physical conditioning, and philosophical principles.
