Business Details
34 Years
experience
Premier Shotokan Karate Training in New Brighton, MN
Peak Performance Training Center has been dedicated to martial arts instruction in the northern Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area since 1992. Our dojo emphasizes core values such as self-discipline, self-confidence, and self-control through traditional Japanese Shotokan Karate training. As an officially accredited dojo of the Shotokan Karate International Federation (SKIF), we uphold the highest standards of instruction under the guidance of world-renowned master Soke Hirokazu Kanazawa. Our team of certified instructors, including Chief Instructor Chris Johnson (6th Dan) and Sensei Gene Smith (6th Dan), brings decades of experience and international competition success to our programs.We specialize in youth and adult classes, offering family rates and partnerships with local community centers to make martial arts accessible to all. Our curriculum combines traditional techniques with modern needs, fostering physical fitness, mental resilience, and character development in a supportive environment.
Services
Youth Karate Classes
Adult Karate Classes
Pre-Karate (4-6 years)
Karate Testing
Family Rates
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- We offer SKIF-certified instruction with internationally recognized standards
- Our instructors include 6th Dan black belts with decades of competitive experience
- Specialized youth programs for ages 4-11 with progressive skill development
- Family rates make martial arts accessible for multiple generations
- Official testing and rank advancement through the SKIF system
Associations and certifications
- Shotokan Karate International Federation (SKIF)
Services
Youth Karate Classes
Structured Shotokan Karate programs for children aged 4-11. Our curriculum develops physical coordination, focus, and discipline through age-appropriate techniques. Students learn traditional kihon (basics), kata (forms), and controlled kumite (sparring) while building confidence and respect. Classes include pre-karate sessions for beginners and advanced programs preparing for formal testing.
Adult Karate Classes
Comprehensive Shotokan Karate training for adults of all experience levels. Participants develop self-defense skills, physical conditioning, and mental discipline through traditional techniques. Classes emphasize proper form, breathing, and application of karate principles. Ideal for stress relief, fitness improvement, and personal growth within a supportive community environment.
Karate Testing
Official SKIF-certified belt testing system for all skill levels. Students demonstrate proficiency in kihon, kata, and kumite to progress through colored belt ranks. Testing occurs every 6-8 weeks with requirements aligned with international standards. Instructors provide personalized feedback to guide continued development and mastery of Shotokan techniques.
Pre-Karate Program
Introduction to martial arts for children aged 4-6. This 6-week program teaches basic karate manners, coordination, and focus through engaging activities. No uniform required initially, with progression options to advanced pre-karate classes. Develops listening skills and physical awareness in a fun, supportive environment.
Family Rates
Affordable pricing options for multiple family members participating in karate classes. Encourages family bonding through shared martial arts training while making quality instruction accessible. Applies to immediate family members enrolled simultaneously in different class levels.
People
Chris Johnson
Chief Instructor
6th Dan black belt with over 30 years of experience. Owner of Peak Performance since 2002 and SKIF-USA board member. Specializes in youth programs and international competition training.
Gene Smith
Instructor
6th Dan black belt with military karate experience in Japan. Trained under Kanazawa Hirokazu and competed internationally. Member of Team USA in SKIF World tournaments.
Dan Mathieu
Sempai
3rd Dan black belt teaching since 2007. Progressed from observing his daughters' training to becoming a certified instructor. Focuses on practical application of Shotokan techniques.
Questions
What age groups do you accept for karate classes?
We offer programs for children as young as 4 years old through adult classes for all experience levels.
Is prior martial arts experience required?
No prior experience needed. Our curriculum accommodates complete beginners through advanced practitioners.
What should I wear for the first class?
For introductory classes, wear comfortable workout clothes. Uniforms are required for formal testing and advanced sessions.
How often are belt testing opportunities available?
Testing occurs every 6-8 weeks with minimum training periods between rank advancements.
Are there family participation options?
Yes, we offer family rates for multiple members attending classes simultaneously.
What martial arts organization accredits your dojo?
We are officially accredited by the Shotokan Karate International Federation (SKIF) since 1992.
