Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Kin-Tora Judo & Martial Arts Martial Arts & Fitness Center in Buffalo, NY
Founded in 1974, Kin-Tora Judo & Martial Arts Martial Arts and Fitness Center has been a cornerstone of the Western New York and Buffalo community for nearly five decades. Our mission is to empower individuals of all ages through world-class instruction in Judo, Aikido, and complementary martial arts disciplines. With a legacy built on over 40 years of personal experience by owner Nick Rastelli, a lifelong practitioner and certified instructor, we combine traditional techniques with modern training methodologies. Our programs emphasize physical fitness, self-defense proficiency, and character development through structured curricula for both adults and children. The facility features dedicated spaces for Judo, Aikido, and strength training, operating seven days a week with flexible class schedules. We maintain affiliations with recognized martial arts organizations including the Niagara Judo Yudanshakai, ensuring our students receive instruction aligned with international standards.Our team of nationally and internationally recognized coaches delivers personalized attention while maintaining a supportive environment for skill development. Through decades of community engagement, we've established a reputation for fostering confidence, discipline, and physical well-being among our students. The center's longevity and continued operation since its founding demonstrate our commitment to martial arts education and community service. Our approach integrates philosophical principles with practical self-defense applications, creating a comprehensive training experience that extends beyond physical techniques.
Services
Judo
Aikido
Kids Judo
Kickboxing
Self Defense
Details
- Year established: 1974
Highlights and features
- We offer over 40 years of combined martial arts experience from certified instructors
- Our curriculum combines traditional techniques with modern self-defense applications
- Family-friendly environment with programs for both adults and children
- Affordable training options with flexible class schedules
- Recognized by national and international martial arts organizations
What people say
Experienced instructors
Family-friendly environment
Effective training programs
Confidence building
Structured curriculum
Services
Judo
Judo instruction focuses on throwing techniques and grappling methods for effective self-defense. Our program develops physical fitness, mental discipline, and practical self-defense skills. Students learn through structured training that emphasizes safety, proper technique, and progressive skill development.
Aikido
Aikido training combines martial techniques with philosophical principles for holistic development. Classes teach defensive movements, energy redirection, and conflict resolution in a supportive environment. The program balances physical conditioning with mental focus and spiritual awareness.
Kids Judo
Specialized Judo classes for children build confidence, physical coordination, and self-defense capabilities. Our age-appropriate curriculum fosters discipline, respect, and social skills through structured martial arts training. Parents report improved focus and self-esteem in participants.
Kickboxing
Kickboxing classes develop cardiovascular fitness, striking techniques, and defensive reflexes. The program combines traditional martial arts elements with modern conditioning methods. Students train in a supportive environment that emphasizes proper form and progressive skill development.
Self Defense
Practical self-defense training focuses on real-world scenarios and situational awareness. Instruction covers personal safety strategies, de-escalation techniques, and defensive maneuvers. The program emphasizes confidence building and practical application of martial arts principles.
People
Nick Rastelli
Owner/Instructor
With over 40 years of martial arts experience since starting at age 4, Nick Rastelli brings deep expertise as both practitioner and certified instructor. He leads Kin-Tora Judo & Martial Arts's training programs while maintaining active involvement in competitive judo and refereeing.
Questions
What martial arts do you teach?
We offer Judo, Aikido, Kickboxing, and Shotokan Karate programs for all skill levels.
Are classes available for children?
Yes, we have specialized Judo programs for children that focus on age-appropriate skill development.
What are your class schedules?
Classes run Monday-Friday 5PM-9PM, Saturday 9:30AM-12PM. Specific times vary by discipline.
Do you offer family discounts?
Contact us directly to inquire about current pricing options and family enrollment discounts.
Are there competition opportunities?
Yes, we prepare students for tournaments and track promotions through recognized ranking systems.
What should I wear for my first class?
Beginners can start in comfortable workout clothes. We provide guidance on proper uniform requirements.
Reviews (5)
Luis Rivera
Oct 21, 2021
Report
Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Value
The ppl are wonderful every one ready willing and able to help, great teachers in judo and aikido. Love it.
The ppl are wonderful every one ready willing and able to help, great teachers in judo and aikido. Love it.
Kyla Prindle-Cassidy
Dec 07, 2019
Report
I have attended Kin-Tora's judo club for the past year. I have trained at a few clubs and Kin-Tora is quite special. It is a very warm and welcome environment and the coaching is top notch. Whether you are just starting judo or have been doing it for year, Kin-Tora is amazing.
Ashley C.
Mar 28, 2018
Report
Kin-Tora is one of THE best martial arts center in Buffalo, hands down. Established in the 1970s, the family who has owned and operated this place have been practicing judo since they were very young. Kin-Tora is rather unique, in that it is run in the style of a club, as opposed to a for-profit dojo. As well as judo, Kin-Tora also offers three other styles: Danzan-ryu Jujutsu, Ryukyu kempo, and Wadokai aikido. There are judo classes for both children and adults. The other three styles are more geared towards those 18 and older; however, the aikido class will take teen students (15 and up)
Michaela Rehm
Jun 24, 2017
Report
I take aikido at Kin-Tora and it has made Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays the best days of my week. Everyone is kind, understanding, and they work together to help each other improve. Shihan James is an amazing teacher who both challenges everyone to push past their comfort zone and breaks techniques down to make them more understandable. Shihan Judy is super kind and is patient with us when we're struggling. And of course, Shihan Mike is a rockstar technician and punmaster. Honestly, I have the most fun and am the happiest when I'm on the mats with my fellow aikidoka. I've made my best friends
Eruj Jgt
Jan 05, 2016
Report
Some instructors very nice others scary sheriff James i heard asked and inmate to come at him and throwing him almost through a wall high level kintora aikido practitioner so tired of gangsters with badges i heard another instructor ask a new student if he was stupid and another instructor laughed at it god bless i got the hell out of there
