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Makeshift Dojo - Shotokan Karate

5 ★★★★★ 5 Google reviews · Karate dojo in Tyler, Texas

Part of Shotokan Karate (JKA)

Karate dojo Affiliated New

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

  • Today see hours ·
  • Website & schedule themakeshiftdojo.com — book classes and see the live schedule

Hours

Monday 6–9 pm
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Closed
Thursday Closed
Friday Closed
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

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

What students say

The things reviewers bring up again and again across 5 Google reviews — in their own words.

builds confidence, discipline & respect 3 mentions

“Sensei Canon also blends fun & focus in the best ways to keep our 15 year old engaged and disciplined.”

From the reviews

Sensei Canon is the kind of leader and man that we want our son to be like when he grows up. Not just practically in Karate skills, but in character and conviction. Sensei Canon also blends fun & focus in the best ways to keep our 15 year old engaged and disciplined. All the stars!

★★★★★ — Crista, Jun 2026

Sensei Canon is one of the best guys I know!! So go ahead and do yourself a favor and come to this Dojo!

★★★★★ — Mason, Apr 2026

Great for learning how to defend yourself and learning a traditional discipline!

★★★★★ — Canon, May 2026

Excerpts from public Google reviews. Read all 5 reviews →

Your first Karate class at Makeshift Dojo - Shotokan Karate

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. 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 Makeshift Dojo - Shotokan Karate

3700 Old Bullard Rd, Tyler, TX75701

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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.