the ISKC difference

Shotokan karate is a Japanese form of karate derived from Okinawan Arts by its founder Gichen Funakoshi. Shotokan places an equal emphasis on hand and foot techniques and is characterized by low strong stances and explosive power. Shotokan utilizes ones body rather than using weapons.

ISKC has been in business for over 40 years and offers classes throughout the Chicago Metropolitan area. Our club is well known both nationally and Internationally, and is one of the largest karate organizations in the United States. With nearly 90% of store front dojos closing after 3 years, you can rest assured that ISKC is here to stay!

With over 60 locations and 14 full time karate instructors, ISKC gives you options. Do you want to take a class in a different location near work or grandma’s house? No problem! Want to learn from multiple instructors? We’ve got you.

We do not require contracts or monthly recurring payments. You sign up per session (spring, summer, winter or fall) and decide as you go! No stress.

With consistent training and practice, it takes an average of 5-8 years to obtain a black belt. There are eleven (11) belt levels you must pass before earning a black belt. At ISKC we hold belt testings every six months to ensure students can master their kata and belt level techniques before rushing through the ranks. The belt levels are in the following order: White Belt, Red Belt, Orange Belt, Yellow Belt, Blue Belt, Green Belt, Low Purple Belt, High Purple Belt, 3rd Brown Belt, 2nd Brown Belt, 1st Brown Belt & Black Belt.

Our program offers classes for children starting at the age of 4 through adults, with our oldest student currently 76 years young! Karate is a really great sport to everyone of all ability levels as it allows you to progress at your own pace. Karate helps develop coordination, balance, poise and flexibility which builds one’s athletic ability and self-esteem regardless of age or ability.

For your first day of class, we ask you to come wearing comfortable workout clothing like a t-shirt and sweat pants. You will take class barefoot, no shoes needed. The first day of classes, your Sensei will chat with you about a uniform which is optional and can be purchased in class. Many students are very excited after their first class and do end up getting the uniform, but it’s up to you!

While our main location and dojo is in Palatine, our full time karate instructors teach in 60+ locations. We run our classes primarily at Safe Park District locations and registration for our classes is done through the Park District directly! To view a full list of our locations & links to register, click HERE.