Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Martial Arts School in Wentzville, MO
American Karate has been transforming lives through martial arts since 1974. Our unique cross-training methodology combines Sport Karate, Tae Kwon Do, Traditional Karate, Aiki Jiu Jitsu, Close Quarter Combat, Yoga, and Kick Boxing to develop mental, physical, and emotional strength. With decades of experience, we specialize in youth development, competitive sport karate, and self-defense training for all ages.Our family-focused environment fosters discipline, confidence, and respect while helping athletes enhance performance in all areas of life. As creators of the AK Classic Karate Championship and Junior Classic tournaments, we maintain a legacy of excellence in martial arts education and community engagement.
Services
Youth Karate
Sport Karate
Self Defense
Karate Camp
Bully Awareness
Private Lessons
Fit-Kickbox
Tournament Training
Details
- Year established: 1974
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of proven martial arts instruction experience
- Our unique cross-training methodology combines 7 martial arts disciplines
- Family-focused environment with certified black belt instructors
- Hosts of the region's largest karate tournaments since 1996
- Specialized programs for preschoolers through adults with certified instructors
What people say
Builds confidence and self-esteem
Instructors are patient and professional
Positive learning environment
Improves focus and discipline
Family atmosphere
Services
Youth Karate
Structured karate programs for children aged 4-12 develop focus, discipline, and physical coordination. Our age-specific classes build confidence through progressive belt rankings and character development. Students learn traditional techniques while improving motor skills and emotional resilience.
Martial Arts Cross Training
Combines seven disciplines including Tae Kwon Do, Judo, and Kick Boxing to create a comprehensive training system. This approach develops well-rounded martial artists through diverse techniques that enhance physical fitness and self-defense capabilities. Programs emphasize practical application and real-world scenarios.
Bully Awareness
Specialized curriculum teaches children to recognize, prevent, and respond to bullying situations. Participants develop assertiveness skills and learn physical defense techniques while building self-confidence. The program emphasizes conflict resolution and bystander intervention strategies.
Tournament Training
Prepares students for competitive karate through specialized sparring and forms instruction. Our award-winning team has produced champions at regional and international levels. Training includes competition strategy, sportsmanship development, and performance enhancement techniques.
Private Lessons
Personalized martial arts instruction tailored to individual goals and skill levels. Sessions focus on specific techniques, belt advancement preparation, or customized self-defense training. Private lessons accelerate progress while providing dedicated instructor attention.
People
Richard Norton
Co-Owner & Head Instructor
7th degree black belt with 40+ years martial arts experience. Inducted into Karate Hall of Fame for teaching excellence. Creator of the Martial Arts Cross Training system and promoter of the AK Classic tournament.
Tony Schneider
Chief Instructor
4th degree black belt with 30+ years experience. International competitor and co-owner since 2020. Specializes in tournament preparation and mixed martial arts techniques while maintaining focus on character development.
Alex Tourville
Instructor
3rd degree black belt with expertise in weapons training and women's self-defense programs. Competes nationally and mentors youth in anti-bullying initiatives while teaching traditional karate techniques.
Questions
What age groups do you accept?
We offer programs for children starting at age 4 through adults of all ages.
Do you offer trial classes?
Yes, we provide a free introductory karate class for new students.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear comfortable workout clothing - we provide loaner uniforms for initial classes.
Are your instructors certified?
All instructors are certified black belts with extensive martial arts training experience.
Do you compete in tournaments?
Yes, we host the annual AK Classic and Junior Classic tournaments and compete nationally.
Reviews (2)
Molly Sizemore
Oct 04, 2019
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I love American karate. I have been here for about 6 years and I still enjoy it. You learn respect and how to defend yourself in any problem. Everyone here is like family and I highly recommend going to American Karate!
Becky Heutel
Jan 29, 2016
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My son has been a student at American Karate for about 5 years. He has a great time and learns proper technique all while getting some exercise. I highly recommend American Karate!
