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Midwest School of Isshinryu

5 ★★★★★ 5 Google reviews · Karate dojo in Aurora, Illinois

Part of Isshinryu 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 msoiaurora.org — book classes and see the live schedule
  • Phone (630) 384-9876

Hours

Monday 7–9 PM
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday 7–9 PM
Thursday 7–8 PM
Friday Closed
Saturday Closed
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 Midwest School of Isshinryu, confirmed in students' own reviews and the dojo's own info — not guessed from the sign out front.

🧒 Kids Karate 3 mentions

“I took my kids here and loved the learning techniques that were used and I also loved the fact that he made sure my kids had the homework done and that their games were intact.”

All dojos that run kids karate →

What students say

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

friendly, respectful dojo 3 mentions

“I would highly recommend this to anyone whether young or older it’s a nice and welcoming environment”

🧒 strong kids program 2 mentions

“I took my kids here and loved the learning techniques that were used and I also loved the fact that he made sure my kids had the homework done and that their games were intact.”

traditional style & affiliation 3 mentions

“I liked the idea of learning real, traditional karate at a non-profit school.”

From the reviews

I started at MSOI 10 years ago with Sensei Smith. I liked the idea of learning real, traditional karate at a non-profit school. Little did I know how much karate and martial arts would change my life. I used to be really shy and let people step all over me. That is no longer the case.

★★★★★ — Mark, May 2021

My family absolutely love Midwest School of Isshinryu Karate! Sensei Smith is an excellent instructor and the classes are the right amount of time and consistency and packed with teaching. He makes room for each age group and makes everyone feel welcome.

★★★★★ — Denise, Oct 2019

I took my kids here and loved the learning techniques that were used and I also loved the fact that he made sure my kids had the homework done and that their games were intact. Not only did my kids attend, but I did myself too and I loved it and the workout.

★★★★★ — Nicole, Nov 2019

Excerpts from public Google reviews. Read all 5 reviews →

Your first Karate class at Midwest School of Isshinryu

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 Midwest School of Isshinryu

850 N Commonwealth Ave, Aurora, IL60506

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.