International Shotokan Karate Federation

After many (MANY) years out of the martial arts, I decided it was time to start training again. I hadn’t a clue where to find the best school to re-​start in LA. I had taken a few years of Karate in Japan and was lucky enough to teach English at a school where my best (Japanese) friend just happened to also be the AIkido-​sensei.
He helped me research some schools in LA and it just so happens that I am lucky enough to work not to far from this dojo, so I went to check it out. it is perfect and reminded me so much why I loved martial arts in the first place.
The classes are physically challenging and the teaching is incredible. Sensei Field is the perfect combination of tough and driving, and funny and kind and warm. The dojo feels very traditional to me, which I love. I am in the beginner classes, yet half the class is brown and black belts, who also stay for the advanced classes right after mine (a testament to how much they love this place).
This works very well because the class is geared towards beginners to the moves and kata are basic and yet there are lots of upper level students training around me so I can see how they do everything and they are extremely helpful as well. They all train 100% and do each and every beginner move and follow sensei as if it was their beginner class as well.
A wonderful dojo and atmosphere with a wonderful teacher and lots of amazing fellow students. I also always see the upper black belts training and assisting the young (children) students before my class and they seem like they are getting the same great training. Wish I’d started that young!

This is a great school for people who are interested in or into martial arts but not into beating people up! There’s no breaking boards (or bones), no testosterone-​y guys who act like bullies on a playground and first time students are given special attention so they don’t feel overwhelmed and frustrated when they’re getting started. Most people who train here are into martial arts for the physical, spiritual AND mental challenges (and rewards) of a focused form of exercise. Nearly all the classes (except the ones for kids) are taught by an 8^th degree backbeat who started the school 30ish years ago. Sensei Field is tough but funny, so even during the most demanding and exhausting classes, your mind will get some relief in the form of laughter (but your muscles and limbs will be required to keep suffering) … I’ve tried a few different styles of martial arts and have trained under just as many instructor and I felt like I hit the karma jackpot when I found Shotokan and Sensei Field. So, to recap: traditional Japanese training, no beef heads, friendly students, challenging classes, people laughing with (and sometimes at) you … but all in a very supportive, encouraging and positive way.

I’ve been here for about six months now, and I’m still loving it. Very good environment for both beginners and experienced people alike. The instructor and all of the senior students are a wealth of information!

ISKF Santa Monica is a rare breed in Los Angeles. There are many dojo in the area, but very few that offer traditional, legitimate Shotokan Karate. The proof is in our lineage. Our instructor, Sensei James Field, trained under Sensei Yutaka Yaguchi, Sensei Yaguchi earned his 1^st and 2^nd degree black belts from Master Funakoshi. Master Funakoshi is the founder of Shotokan Karate. You can’t ask for better lineage than that! Aside from the fact that you can be sure you’re learning authentic, traditional Karate, training at this dojo is second to none. The training is demanding, your spirit will be tested, but you will come back for more. Out students and instructors have competed both locally and abroad — but you’ll always feel at home at this dojo. The spirit here is overwhelmingly about family. Everyone wants everyone else to improve and succeed. No attitudes here!

This is one of the best Shotokan karate schools for children in southern California. Don’t be fooled by false advertising and fancy commercialism which also attach a high price. Authentic, traditional, true karate is taught just as it is in Japan! Children learn focus, kime, true karate techniques, true Kata and sparring in a nonviolent and non-​aggressive environment. If you want your child to learn real karate this is the place.

One of the best places to do Shotokan. I have been doing Shotokan since 1982 and spent 8 years in Japan. So I can speak with some authority on this subject. Field Sensei is one of the best. Although having a skilled instructor is very important, this dojo’s worth is greatly increased by the level/​attitude of students and other instructors, location and atmosphere. If you are looking for authentic Karate in the area, you definitely owe it to yourself to check out this place. And don’t be fooled by the marketing of their competitors. Just because other places are more expensive does not mean they are better. Training at ISKFSM is one of the best deals available. Can you put a price on something that can help you get/​stay in shape, lift your spirits and possibly someday save your life?

This is the most authentic training in Japanese karate you can get — outside of going to Japan. This karate school has been in business for over 30 years and produced nationally-​ranked champions, as well as being a place that anyone from children to seniors can experience karate. Membership is on a monthly basis, no extended contracts. There are «unlimited» classes, so you can train as often as you like. Classes are held 6 days a week, most days offering a morning AND evening classes. Plenty of options for beginners and a very experienced group of dedicated senior black belts are the instructors. This school is focused on teaching a very TRADITIONAL ART, but one that has practical application for self-​defense.