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Ancient Arts Family Karate/Ju-Jitsu Academy
4.5 ★★★★★ 95 Google reviews · Karate dojo in Cary, North Carolina
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
- Free trial / intro class most dojos welcome new students with a free trial or intro class — check their site or give them a call to book your first session
- 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 aaafamilykarate.com — book classes and see the live schedule
- Phone (919) 434-7654
Hours
| Monday | 7 AM–9 PM |
| Tuesday | 7 AM–9 PM |
| Wednesday | 7 AM–9 PM |
| Thursday | 7 AM–9 PM |
| Friday | 7 AM–6:30 PM |
| Saturday | 7 AM–12:30 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
The classes they run
“My daughter really enjoys taking karate here and I have seen a tremendous improvement in her focus and positivity within a week or two after her initial sign up.”
Other martial arts here
What students say
“Shihan is great with using positive reinforcement to encourage attention to detail, focused listening and even some lighthearted commentary that fosters community building.”
“One of the things I really appreciate about Kyoushi Don’s approach is the clear focus on learning the art of karate as a family experience.”
“Shihan is great with using positive reinforcement to encourage attention to detail, focused listening and even some lighthearted commentary that fosters community building.”
“We’ve seen such a positive change in our child’s confidence, and we’re so glad we chose Ancient Arts Karate Academy.”
“Shihan provides guidance for a well rounded Karate student - encouraging the kids to clean their rooms, be responsible, have good manners and even eat Broccoli!”
“In addition to teaching karate, he also teaches good values which is a plus.”
From the reviews
My son has been going go Ancient Arts Karate for about 2 months now, and still really likes it! He is six years old and has tried basketball and soccer in the past and has not been able to focus enough to really get anything out of it. He also dreaded going to soccer and basketball after a few sessions.
My son and I have both been students at Ancient Arts Family Karate since the fall of 2024. Our family has over 20 years experience in the Shuri-ryu practice and were looking for a school that held close to the teachings of its founder Master Robert Trias.
After trying several places, we’re so happy to have found Ancient Arts Family Karate/Ju-Jitsu Academy. Don Isaak is an incredibly dedicated instructor who teaches every class himself, which really shows his commitment to his students.
Our kids have been attending this school for the past four years, and we couldn't be happier with the experience. Shihaan is not only highly skilled but also incredibly motivating, and genuinely invested in each child's growth—both as martial artists and as individuals.
Your first Karate class at Ancient Arts Family Karate/Ju-Jitsu Academy
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.
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