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American Kenpo Karate Inc.

4.9 ★★★★★ 27 Google reviews · Karate dojo in Toledo, Ohio

Part of Kenpo / Kempo Karate

Karate dojo Affiliated Kids & teens Private lessons

Affiliated dojo — reviews and the dojo's own info point to a recognized Karate style organization or franchise (think Shotokan/JKA, Kyokushin, Goju-Ryu, Isshinryu, Tiger Schulmann's or Villari's). If lineage matters to you, ask which style and organization the dojo belongs to, and under whom the head sensei earned their black belt.

Plan your first class

  • Kids & youth classes kids and youth Karate classes — built around discipline, focus, and confidence
  • Private lessons private, one-on-one instruction available — a focused way to start or to work around a busy schedule; ask about availability and rates
  • Today see hours ·
  • Website & schedule kenpotoledo.com — book classes and see the live schedule
  • Phone (419) 708-4454

Hours

Monday 4–8 PM
Tuesday 4–8 PM
Wednesday 4–8 PM
Thursday 4–8 PM
Friday 4–6 PM
Saturday 9:30 AM–1 PM
Sunday 4–6 PM

Hours shift for holidays, belt tests, and seminars — worth a quick check before a special trip.

The classes they run

Karate classes on the schedule at American Kenpo Karate Inc., confirmed in students' own reviews and the dojo's own info — not guessed from the sign out front.

🧒 Kids Karate 4 mentions

“Along with 4 of my kids, we have been students of Mike Sherman for almost 20 years now.”

All dojos that run kids karate →

👤 Private Lessons

“Prices are super affordable, private lessons are available as well.”

All dojos that run private lessons →

What students say

The things reviewers bring up again and again across 27 Google reviews — in their own words.

expert instruction from a great sensei 2 mentions

“Great instructors who know their students.”

traditional style & affiliation 4 mentions

“I would highly recommend American Kenpo Karate to all of my friends.”

From the reviews

Simply the best martial arts dojo in the state. Sensei Sherman’s skill, teaching ability, kindness, enthusiasm, and sense of humor makes him the ideal instructor. I still stop in for refresher lessons 50 years on since I first became his student.

★★★★★ — Wade, Jul 2024

Sensei Mike Sherman kicks butt! Along with 4 of my kids, we have been students of Mike Sherman for almost 20 years now. He is patient, knowledgeable, and a lot of fun to learn from. He is one of those genuine people who possess both the field experience in karate and excellent teaching skills.

★★★★★ — Scott, Oct 2013

The best American Kenpo Karate school in the world hands down. I got my 1st and 2nd defree black belt under Mr. Sherman. I know the guy for almost 20 years. He is a true example of what a true teacher mentor and coach should be.

★★★★★ — Yuriy, Jun 2017

I HAVE ATTENDED AND HELPED TEACH AT THIS SCHOOL FOR THREE GENERATIONS OF KID. MIKE SHERMAN HAS THE SAME ENERGY FOR MARTIAL ARTS. EVEN AFTER ALL THESE YEARS

★★★★★ — Vince, Feb 2025

Excerpts from public Google reviews. Read all 27 reviews →

Your first Karate class at American Kenpo Karate Inc.

Nervous about walking into a Karate dojo for the first time? Almost everyone is, and a good sensei expects beginners to come through the door. Here's what to know. What to expect: a typical first class is a warm-up, then drilling basic stances, blocks, punches, and kicks — not hard sparring. Step to the side whenever you need to; no one will bat an eye. What to wear: athletic wear you can move in (or a gi if you have one); you'll train barefoot. What to bring: water, and a mouthguard if you have one — many dojos lend a loaner gi for a first class, so it's worth asking when you call. As you keep training you'll add your own gi and the belt your dojo awards you. Kumite (sparring) eases in gradually, once your fundamentals are solid. Arrive 10–15 minutes early to sign a waiver and meet the sensei. It gets easier fast — most people feel far more at home by their third class.

Karate is a contact sport. Ease in, train within your limits, listen to your instructors, and if you have any injuries or health concerns, mention them before class and check with a doctor if you're unsure.

Where to find American Kenpo Karate Inc.

4730 Bancroft St #18, Toledo, OH43615

Get directions

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Listing verified July 2026 from public business records and member reviews. Something out of date? Report a correction. Own this dojo? Claim your listing — it's free.