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Craig's Kempo Karate Academy

5 ★★★★★ 10 Google reviews · Karate dojo in Watertown, Massachusetts

Part of Kenpo / Kempo Karate

Karate dojo Affiliated Kids & teens

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
  • Today see hours ·
  • Website & schedule craigskempo.com — book classes and see the live schedule
  • Phone +1 617-924-9888

Hours

Monday 12–9 pm
Tuesday 12–9 pm
Wednesday 12–9 pm
Thursday 12–9 pm
Friday 12–9 pm
Saturday 8 am–5 pm
Sunday Closed

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 Craig's Kempo Karate Academy, confirmed in students' own reviews and the dojo's own info — not guessed from the sign out front.

🧒 Kids Karate 10 mentions

“The Shihan Craig and the teachers care a lot about the kids and work to instill integrity, character and self discipline in addition to learning defense-based karate.”

All dojos that run kids karate →

🐉 Little Dragons

“We were recommended to Craig's by some friends whose son went all the way through from The Little dragons until he went off to college.”

All dojos that run little dragons →

What students say

The things reviewers bring up again and again across 10 Google reviews — in their own words.

builds confidence, discipline & respect 8 mentions

“The Shihan Craig and the teachers care a lot about the kids and work to instill integrity, character and self discipline in addition to learning defense-based karate.”

From the reviews

Can't recommend enough. Instilled confidence and self-discipline in my daughter and now my son. Caring, conscientious, and hard-working. I trust Craig completely.

★★★★★ — Mike, Aug 2020

My son goes here and we are very happy with the instruction and instructors! The entire process builds confidence and teaches skills that I imagine build a foundation that can last a lifetime.

★★★★★ — Sean, May 2024

This dojo is awesome. The Shihan Craig and the teachers care a lot about the kids and work to instill integrity, character and self discipline in addition to learning defense-based karate.

★★★★★ — Jess, Aug 2023

My son goes to Craig's Kempo Karate for almost two years now, and I can definitely see the results. It's not only about physical strength and self- defense. The mental part is even bigger and much more valuable!

★★★★★ — David, May 2026

Excerpts from public Google reviews. Read all 10 reviews →

Your first Karate class at Craig's Kempo Karate 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.

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 Craig's Kempo Karate Academy

222 Arsenal St, Watertown, MA02472

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.