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World Class Institute of Martial Arts
5 ★★★★★ 47 Google reviews · Karate dojo in Madison Heights, Michigan
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
- Beginner-friendly all levels welcome, including total beginners — you don't need to be fit or have any experience to start
- Kids & youth classes kids and youth Karate classes — built around discipline, focus, and confidence
- Weapons / kobudo traditional weapons (kobudo) classes — kata with the bo, sai, and nunchaku, taught with control and discipline
- Today see hours ·
- Website & schedule wcioma.com — book classes and see the live schedule
- Phone (248) 478-1088
Hours
| Monday | 5:15–9 PM |
| Tuesday | 5:30–8:15 PM |
| Wednesday | 5:15–9 PM |
| Thursday | 5:45–9 PM |
| Friday | 5:15–9 PM |
| Saturday | 9–10 AM |
| Sunday | Closed |
The classes they run
“My son has been enjoying this school for several years and is excited to be advancing steadily toward earning his black belt.”
“In addition to Master Norton there are several Black Belts that assist with the classes and work with the students to learn their forms, sparring, board breaking, and more.”
Other martial arts here
What students say
“Master Norton is incredibly patient, encouraging and truly invested in each child’s development.”
“He takes the time to connect with each child, guiding them with respect and understanding, which has created a welcoming and positive atmosphere at the school.”
“Master Norton is great with kids of all ages (especially our 4 year old).”
“He takes the time to connect with each child, guiding them with respect and understanding, which has created a welcoming and positive atmosphere at the school.”
From the reviews
Wonderful karate school. Very family friendly - both the instructor and the curriculum. Positive reinforcement. Focus on commitment, working hard, personal responsibility, physical fitness (obviously), and having fun. Lots of schedule options. Great support for larger events from their parent school in Livonia.
My daughter started here in February of 2024 and has really enjoyed her training with Master Norton. They offer a 30 day trial program for about $60 that includes the cost of a uniform for students to try before committing to one of their monthly, yearly, or 4 year memberships.
My daughter has now attended 7 classes and she loves it! Master Norton is great with the kids (and adults). It's a fun, safe learning atmosphere that teaches these kids respect and discipline. I would highly recommend to any parent looking to get their child into a physically active program. 👍🏼👍🏼
Amazing school! We’ve been coming here to train for four years, and look forward to many more. The instructors are extremely knowledgeable and personable, my kids are learning so much. It is also a very welcoming, family atmosphere that we enjoy being a part of. Highly recommended!
New to Karate? Start at World Class Institute of Martial Arts
World Class Institute of Martial Arts comes up as a beginner-friendly dojo — noted on their own site. If you've never thrown a punch or set foot in a dojo, that's exactly who a good beginners program is for. A few things worth knowing before your first week. First, you don't need to be fit or flexible to start — you get in shape by training, not before it, and the sensei scales the intensity to you. Second, you won't be thrown into hard sparring — reputable dojos build fundamentals (stances, blocks, punches, and kicks) for weeks, and kumite (sparring) eases in gradually, with pads and control. Third, all levels and ages really are welcome — ask about a dedicated beginners or fundamentals class time so your first session is alongside others who are also starting out. Most dojos are happy to let you watch or try a class first, so reach out before you commit.
Your first Karate class at World Class Institute of Martial Arts
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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🥋 Free trial / intro class — check their site