Karate Classes in St. Louis, MO

Good to know in St. Louis

For a recognized style organization or franchise (think Shotokan/JKA, Kyokushin, Tiger Schulmann's, Villari's), members point to Premier Martial Arts - St. Louis, MO.

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.

• Absolute Martial Arts ★★★★★ 5 (160) — 8822 Gravois Rd
• Legends Karate ★★★★★ 4.9 (31) — 2374A Schuetz Rd

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.

• Absolute Martial Arts ★★★★★ 5 (160) — 8822 Gravois Rd
• Legends Karate ★★★★★ 4.9 (31) — 2374A Schuetz Rd

Karate for beginners in St. Louis →

Kids & teen karate in St. Louis

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.

• Absolute Martial Arts ★★★★★ 5 (160) — 8822 Gravois Rd
• Robinson's Karate Co ★★★★★ 4.9 (54) — 8738 Watson Rd
• Dave Hanson's Gateway Karate ★★★★★ 4.8 (35) — 5496 Baumgartner Rd #105

Kids Karate in St. Louis →

Karate in St. Louis: quick answers

How much does karate cost a month in St. Louis?

Most St. Louis 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 St. Louis dojos offer a free trial or free first class?

Yes — 2 of the 8 dojos in St. Louis advertise a free trial, free first class, or intro offer, including Absolute Martial Arts, Legends Karate. Offers change, so confirm on the dojo's site before you go.

I'm a total beginner — can I start karate in St. Louis?

Yes. Karate welcomes complete beginners, and you don't need to be fit or have any experience first — the training gets you in shape. 2 St. Louis 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 St. Louis?

Yes — 5 St. Louis dojos run kids' or youth karate, with some classes starting as young as age 3. 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 St. Louis · Kids in St. Louis

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