What Makes Our Karate Program Unique?
Founded in 1994 by Sensei Dave Roth, Florida Karate Academy specializes in traditional Okinawan karate as the foundational art of our integrated curriculum. Sensei Roth holds a 7th-degree black belt in Shorin-ryu Karate (one of the major Okinawan styles emphasizing natural movement, speed, and power), along with decades of competition and teaching experience (including national and world championships and international training in Okinawa, Europe, and Japan).
Our karate classes emphasize:
Kihon (basics) Exercises designed to develop the body to be able to move with speed, power, balance, and efficiency while performing fighting techniques.
-
Kata (forms) the blueprint for all fighting techniques in a system. The original method of teaching and preserving martial information. Also practiced as a sport in modern times.
-
Kumite (controlled sparring) to develop timing, strategy, and confidence Also a sport..
-
Bunkai (practical applications) for self-defense scenarios.
Unlike standalone karate schools, FKA integrates Okinawan karate with jujitsu, weapons, and ground fighting for well-rounded martial artists – while keeping the traditional values of courtesy and respect. We welcome beginners (including women and families preferring balanced training with emphasis on character development, fitness and self defense) and advanced students alike. All ages are welcome at FKA.
Our Okinawan Karate Curriculum
Classes are structured by level (beginner, intermediate, advanced) and often overlap with family/youth programs for inclusive training. Key elements include:
-
Kihon (Basics): Stances, punches (tsuki), kicks (geri), blocks (uke), and body conditioning to build speed, power, and proper form.
-
Kata (Forms): Traditional Shorin-ryu sequences (e.g., Pinan series, Naihanchi, Passai) that teach flow, focus, and combat principles.
-
Kumite (Sparring): Point-based or light-contact practice to apply techniques safely, improving reflexes and control.
-
Self-Defense Applications: Scenario-based training for street situations, emphasizing awareness, de-escalation, and effective strikes.
-
Character Development: Okinawan philosophy stresses respect (rei), perseverance (gaman), humility, and integrity – core to every class.
Kids start as young as 3-5 in Pre-K karate (fun basics), progressing to full youth/adult classes. Families train together, with parents modeling discipline and kids gaining confidence from shared practice.
Benefits :
-
Builds physical fitness, coordination, and agility.
-
Boosts mental discipline, focus, and anti-bullying resilience.
-
Teaches practical self-defense rooted in tradition.
Prepares for competition (AAU tournaments, national/world events).
Led by Sensei Dave Roth – 7th-Degree Shorin-ryu Expert
Sensei Roth's background includes:
-
7th-degree black belt in Shorin-ryu Karate (awarded progressively, including 6th-degree in 2013 for teaching and AAU contributions).
-
Early training in Wado-ryu, then deep Shorin-ryu study under masters like Dan Smith and Zenpo Shimabukuro.
-
Multiple national and world championships and international seminars in Okinawa.
-
Over 40 years teaching, creating FKA's unique blend while preserving karate purity.
His leadership ensures authentic instruction that produces the most FKA champions in the area and a top-20 club status for 20+ years.
Perfect for Families, Beginners, and Aspiring Champions
Our karate appeals to:
-
Families wanting to train together (any age, with discounts).
-
Kids/youth building confidence and character.
-
Adults seeking fitness, stress relief, and self-defense.
-
Beginners (balanced approach, starts easy and progress at your own pace).
Compared to other schools, FKA stands out with true Okinawan tradition, family co-training, broader integration, and proven competitive success.