Our Programs & Classes

Students and enthusiasts of Karate have many reasons for their interest in this and other martial art styles. Some are drawn to the physical fitness and weight-loss aspects of training. Others seek to add discipline and self control to their lives. While still others are concerned about safety and self-defense.

Whether you are interested in our programs for mental or physical well being, Yamabushikan offers a number of programs that will fit your developmental needs and your busy schedule as well. Click here to view our Weekly Class Schedule.

OVERVIEW A premier Martial Arts school emphasizing goal setting, learning, perseverance and leadership; Yamabushikan offers a number of Martial Arts programs to meet the needs of the different student age groups. Not only are our programs separated by age; but also by experience - Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced. Everyone trains in a comfortable environment.

KNEE HIGH SAMURAI Ages 4-6 'Children are the future of the world. They must be taught with patience and disclipine. Punishment is done out of anger, and discipline out of love. My philosophy is never ending correction with a smile."-- Jhoon Rhee , founder of American Taekwando. Martial arts training concentrates on the development of each individual's mind, body and spirit . At Yamabushikan we believe that karate is an excellent medium to prepare young girls and boys for their future. In our Knee High Samurai program children stand at attention and bow before class. They say please and thank you in english and japanese ( this fosters self control and respect). We play music during class (research indicates that exposure to classical music in early childhood enhances aesthetic appreciation and learning. We read stories to develop imagination, verbal skills, and a respect for reading (the path to education. When problems arise ("it's my turn; he pushed me, I want to go first") we ask the students how they can be solved (conflict resolution). Our stretches and exercises are fast paced and enjoyable in order to promote a positive attitude toward physical activity. Each game that we play contributes to the development of gross and fine motor skills, perception, coordination and teamwork. The introduction of karate techniques, though minimal for Knee Highs, boosts a child's self esteem and confidence. Unlike sports, karate targets the left and right side equally. As he learns to balance he realizes that practice turns "I can't do this" into "look what I can do!". He kicks higher than expected and learns to set higher goals. He becomes eager to stand in front of the class and demonstrate his favorite technique while counting in japanese. He begins to understand thathe must earn his promotion; he strives for his next stripe and is justifiably proud of his accomplishment. Our Knee High Samurai Program has a cumulative effect. These achievements may be realized with patience, perserverence and parental support. We focus on the development of mind, body and spirit. Our wish is to give our girls and boys the tools they need to embrace their future with confidence and success.

Juniors 7 to 12 Ages 7-12 Adding to the Knee-Hi Samurai program, emphasis is also placed on Martial Art exercises that foster confidence, self-esteem, leadership, self-defense, conflict resolution, goal setting, teamwork and a respect for themselves and others. Karate principles are used to develop balance, posture, strength, speed, power, perseverance and a winning attitude. Also, families have an opportunity to train together at Yamabushikan!!!

TEENS & ADULTS Ages 13 and up Designed to produce a more powerful body, a more alert mind and a confident yet humble spirit. Adding to the Junior Program, emphasis is also placed on utilizing the cultural & ancestral heritage of the Asian combative arts to provide all the recognized benefits of Martial Arts training, including: Stamina - Weight control* - Flexibility Strength - Energy – Balance Stress relief – Confidence – Discipline Self-respect – Control - Coordination Expanded powers of concentration *Weight Watchers lists karate as the #1 activity that meets all the criteria for an exercise that helps achieve weight reduction. Families have an opportunity to train together at Yamabushikan!!!

FREE - INSTRUCTIONAL CLASS FOR NON-MARTIAL ARTISTS To educate the public about the benefits of training in the Martial Arts, Yamabushikan offers a FREE instructional class for non-Martial Artists. This class addresses the structure and content of a typical training session and how karate principles relate to everyday life. Taught by Shihan Ken Peterson, these classes are designed to provide answers to many questions about Karate and Martial Arts. This class is great for anyone interested in learning about the principles, benefits and history of Asian Martial Arts, Jujitsu and traditional Okinawan Karate. Yamabushikan is a school of traditional Okinawan karate located at 38 Sanborn Street, Danville, NH. These classes will run for approximately 45 minutes. If you would like to reserve a space, please call 603-819-1671; email us at www.yamabushikan@ymail.com or respond to the “Contact Us” section of our website at www.yamabushikan.com.

MONTHLY EVALUATION Invitees are offered an opportunity to demonstrate their skills and understanding of the karate principles and techniques that they have learned so far. Based on their demonstration of correct form, spirit, stance and technique, they will be considered for dvancement to their next rank.

Please Contact Us if you have any questions about our programs or would like to know about other programs that may not be listed here.