Carolina Isshinryu Karate Academy

Special Pricing for new students

Welcome to Carolina Isshinryu Karate Academy (CIKA)

At CIKA, we don’t just teach martial arts, we cultivate grit, growth, and greatness.

Looking for karate in Apex, NC? Whether you're stepping onto the mat for the first time or refining years of practice, you'll be challenged in ways that honor your pace, your goals, and your potential. Our training environment is built to bring out your best — not through pressure, but through purpose. Whether you're a beginner, a seasoned martial artist, or a parent seeking character-building classes for your child, our dojo offers a welcoming, ego-free space to grow.

We believe in offering one of the most comprehensive and authentic martial arts experiences available — without the fluff. No glittery dojos. No inflated titles. No overpriced contracts or belt-by-the-week gimmicks. Just real training, real progress, and real community.

Every belt at CIKA is a badge of effort, not a souvenir. We don’t hand out ranks, we help you rise to them. Through hard work, dedication, and mutual respect between student and instructor, you’ll build skills that go far beyond the dojo.

If you're seeking a traditional martial arts journey, one rooted in discipline, integrity, and personal transformation : you've found your place.

“Don’t practice until you get it right. Practice until you don’t get it wrong.”

- Marc Cameron, Oath of Office

💥 What Sets CIKA Apart

We keep it real — and we keep it respectful. Here’s what you’ll find at Carolina Isshinryu Karate Academy:

🚫 No Contracts. No Agreements. No Gimmicks.
🚫 No Belt Fees. No Testing Fees.
✅ Professional, Purpose Driven Training
✅ Traditional Classes with an emphasis on self-defense, confidence, and personal development
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Discounts Available
👦 Open to Students Ages 10 & Up
✅ Proudly serving Cary, Apex, Morrisville, and the greater Raleigh area

If you're ready to train with integrity and earn every step of your journey — welcome to CIKA.

🧭 Why We Teach

At Carolina Isshinryu Karate Academy, we teach because we believe in the power of martial arts to transform lives — physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Our foundation is the philosophy and tradition of Isshinryu Karate, as set forth by Soke Tatsuo Shimabuku. Through disciplined instruction in kata, kobudo, and self-defense, we honor the art’s history while empowering each student’s personal growth.

Isshinryu came to the United States through U.S. Marines stationed in Okinawa during the 1950s and 60s. That legacy lives on in every class we teach. rooted in respect, resilience, and real-world application.

👊 From Passion to Purpose

My own journey began in Judo in 1976, followed by Chun Chi-Do in 1985. But it was Isshinryu that truly captured my spirit. I earned my black belt in 1992, became a certified instructor in 1994, and in 2022 was honored with the rank of Nana-Dan (7th degree black belt). Today, my mission is simple: to share the art that shaped me and to help others discover what it can unlock in themselves.

Isshinryu has been a source of strength, clarity, and joy in my life. I’m confident your journey will be just as powerful.

— Sensei Dean Scott

🎯Make Black Belt Your Goal

Becoming a Black Belt isn’t about shortcuts, it’s about commitment, confidence, and personal transformation.

At Carolina Isshinryu Karate Academy, we believe self-defense is essential for all ages. Our training builds more than technique, it builds the mindset to stand strong, think clearly, and never be a victim.

It’s not just a belt; it’s a journey. And it starts with your first class.

💪 Self-Defense That Works
Our curriculum includes practical self-defense strategies for real-world situations. We teach how to escape and counter threats, even from someone bigger or stronger, using leverage, timing, and technique. Strength alone doesn’t win. Skill does.

🧠 Karate Is More Than Fighting
While many see karate as combat, we focus on the fundamentals; striking, blocking, and awareness, to create a solid foundation in personal protection and lifelong confidence.

⏳ Train at Your Own Pace
You’re never too old to start. Our program adapts to your pace, helping you improve fitness, sharpen focus, and build the confidence that comes from knowing you’ve earned every step.

💬 What Our Students Say

“CIKA is more than a dojo—it’s a community. My kids have gained confidence, discipline, and lifelong friendships.”
— Parent of two students

“Sensei Dean teaches with integrity and heart. This is the real deal.”
— Adult student, age 42

👊 Ready to Begin?

Try a Free Class Today!
Experience the difference of a dojo that puts students before sales. Whether you're searching for karate classes near me, self-defense in Apex, or a non-commercial martial arts school, we invite you to step onto the mat.

📍 Located in Apex, NC
📧 Email: sensei@karateNC.com
📞 call or text: 919-228-8711

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