Karate Dojo in Westchester, NY

Authentic Karate, Since 1973.

Karate Instructors That Hold You Accountable

At Jim Smith Karate, we believe martial arts is about more than punches and kicks—it’s about helping students grow into confident, respectful, and disciplined individuals.

At Jim Smith Karate, you can count on:

At some Dojos, you might experience:

Our Mission

To help people grow stronger—on the mat and throughout life.

The Jim Smith Karate Legacy

To become a master in the martial arts, one must either found a style or be chosen by a master to carry on the lineage. In 2004, Hanshi Jim Smith received his 10th degree black belt and was recognized by the World Wen Wu Council of Martial Arts as the founder of the Goju-Te system. He is one of only three non-Asians awarded this honor.

Goju-Te blends Okinawan Goju-Ryu and Japanese Goju-Kai, combining soft, circular blocking with strong, fast counterattacks. It offers a balanced mix of foot and hand techniques—something not often seen in other styles that tend to favor one over the other.

Hanshi Jim Smith believed karate was for everyone. That belief lives on today in a welcoming, supportive community where students of all ages and skill levels grow in strength, confidence, and respect. Though Hanshi passed in 2017, his legacy continues in every class we teach and every student we inspire.

Karate Instructors

“Simply put, if you want the best training in all that Karate can offer your child, Jim Smith Karate is the place to go.”

–William Friedel

What is Goju-Te Karate?

Goju-Te means “Hard-Soft Hand”—a unique martial arts style created by Hanshi Jim Smith. It blends the powerful strikes of Okinawan Goju-Ryu with the fluid movements of Japanese Goju-Kai, combining tradition with practical self-defense.

At Jim Smith Karate, it isn’t just about techniques—it’s about building discipline, confidence, and character through every class.

Our Philosophy

We realize that although the ability to defend oneself is important, there are far more important benefits to be had from being involved in a martial arts program. That’s why our unique karate program of work and fun is designed to enhance the qualities of character, self-esteem, respect, self-control and proper etiquette in all of our students.

All classes at Jim Smith Karate are staffed by highly experienced and motivated martial artists. We will help you or your child achieve more than you ever imagined with age appropriate instruction that matches your skillset.

FAQs

What is the difference between Karate and Tae Kwon Do?

One of the differences between the two arts is that Karate is a Japanese art and Tae Kwon Do is a Korean Art. Both teach hand and feet techniques and both emphasize self-defense but Karate tends to be a more traditional and disciplined art with a more structured environment. Tae Kwon Do is more of a speed/combat/sport with emphasis on movement.

Why does it take 4-5 years to obtain a black belt?

We are not a belt factory. At JSK, you get your belts the old-fashioned way …you earn them. It’s important to us that each student moves through the ranks properly and effectively and at their own pace.

What are the terms of your agreement, will I be 'locked-in'?"

Although members are required to sign a one year agreement, payment is monthly and you may cancel at any time. We simply ask for written notification 15 days prior to your billing date.

Do you charge test fees and belt fees and can I call you to get prices?

Our monthly rate is all-inclusive and you will not pay for any belt or test fees. Tuition rates are happily given over the phone.

How many instructors do you have on the floor, student/teacher ratio?"

We strive to keep the student/teacher ratio at 5:1 so that every student receives optimal instruction.

Do you offer a trial class?

It is our recommendation that any student, child or adult, participate in at least one trial class before signing up. On occasion, students require more than one class to feel confident and sure that karate is for them.