Karate Classes in Chicago, IL

Good to know in Chicago

5 of the 17 dojos with posted hours are open on Sundays.

For a recognized style organization or franchise (think Shotokan/JKA, Kyokushin, Tiger Schulmann's, Villari's), members point to Imazaki Dojo, Gen-Ki Karate & Fitness Center, Kyokushin Karate Club “Kanku”, Enso Karate, and 3 more.

Plan your first class

These dojos offer a free trial, free first class, or intro offer — the low-risk way to try karate before you commit. Check each dojo's schedule for the current offer.

• Fonseca Martial Arts - Roscoe Village ★★★★★ 4.9 (92) — 2329 W Belmont Ave
• Imazaki Dojo ★★★★★ 5 (40) — 1717 S Michigan Ave
• Senshi Karate Of Chicago ★★★★★ 4.8 (45) — 5707 N Ashland Ave

Free trial & intro classes, dojo by dojo →

New to karate?

These dojos are called out by members as welcoming to beginners — go at your own pace, ask questions, and know that sparring (kumite) builds up slowly and stays light and supervised. Everyone in the room started at white belt.

• Karate Academy ★★★★★ 4.7 (69) — 7115 W Grand Ave #2
• Imazaki Dojo ★★★★★ 5 (40) — 1717 S Michigan Ave
• Thousand Waves Martial Arts & Self-Defense Center, NFP ★★★★★ 4.5 (37) — 1220 W Belmont Ave

Karate for beginners in Chicago →

Kids & teen karate in Chicago

These dojos run kids' or youth classes — supervised, confidence-building, and focused on discipline, respect, and self-defense. Check each dojo's schedule for age groups and times.

• Fonseca Martial Arts - Roscoe Village ★★★★★ 4.9 (92) — 2329 W Belmont Ave
• Karate Academy ★★★★★ 4.7 (69) — 7115 W Grand Ave #2
• Imazaki Dojo ★★★★★ 5 (40) — 1717 S Michigan Ave

Kids Karate in Chicago →

Karate in Chicago: quick answers

How much does karate cost a month in Chicago?

Most Chicago dojos don't post prices online. Karate is usually sold as a monthly membership, and rates vary by dojo and style. Many offer a free or discounted first class, so you can visit before you commit — see our cost guide for typical price ranges.

Do any Chicago dojos offer a free trial or free first class?

Yes — 8 of the 18 dojos in Chicago advertise a free trial, free first class, or intro offer, including Fonseca Martial Arts - Roscoe Village, Imazaki Dojo, Senshi Karate Of Chicago. Offers change, so confirm on the dojo's site before you go.

I'm a total beginner — can I start karate in Chicago?

Yes. Karate welcomes complete beginners, and you don't need to be fit or have any experience first — the training gets you in shape. 8 Chicago dojos are highlighted by members as beginner-friendly. Sparring (kumite) is introduced gradually, kept light and supervised, and a good dojo never pressures newcomers — you learn the basics, stances, and forms at your own pace, starting at white belt.

Are there kids' karate classes in Chicago?

Yes — 17 Chicago dojos run kids' or youth karate, with some classes starting as young as age 4. Youth programs focus on confidence, discipline, respect, and fun in a supervised setting; check each dojo's schedule for age groups and times.

More: How much Karate costs · Your first class · What to wear · Beginners in Chicago · Kids in Chicago

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