About Cranbrook Kyokushin Karate
Full-Contact Martial Arts in Cranbrook, BC
At Cranbrook Kyokushin Karate, we are committed to helping individuals of all ages and abilities achieve fitness, self-discipline, and personal growth through the traditional art of Kyokushin Karate. Whether you’re new to martial arts or looking to advance your skills, our dojo provides the structure and guidance you need to succeed.
Kyokushin Karate is more than just a form of self-defense—it’s a lifelong practice of self-improvement. Our classes challenge both the body and mind while teaching the core values of respect, perseverance, and self-control. Although we follow the strict traditions of Japanese martial arts, we ensure training is engaging and enjoyable, supporting each student’s unique goals. While we teach effective fighting techniques, they are always to be used responsibly and only in self-defense situations.
Our dojo fosters a welcoming, family-friendly environment, where parents and children can train at the same time, making it convenient for families to pursue their martial arts journey together.
Why Choose Kyokushin Karate?
Founded by Masutatsu Oyama, Kyokushin Karate is renowned for its emphasis on full-contact sparring and realistic, effective self-defense techniques. What sets Kyokushin apart from other martial arts is its focus on discipline, strength, and mental resilience—building confidence that carries over into all aspects of life.
At Cranbrook Kyokushin Karate, we adhere strictly to the traditional Japanese methods of Kyokushin training. Students of all levels will experience the same authentic techniques and principles that have defined Kyokushin since its creation. Our approach ensures that beginners are supported while being gradually introduced to the discipline, and more experienced martial artists are continually challenged to deepen their practice, while everyone progresses at a pace that is both safe and effective.
Meet Our Experienced Instructors
Our team of instructors includes highly skilled black belts with decades of experience in Kyokushin Karate. They are dedicated to guiding each student through their martial arts journey, offering expert instruction in both the physical techniques and the mental discipline that Kyokushin demands. With a focus on personal development, our instructors ensure that every student receives the support they need to grow, no matter their starting point.
Sempai Jerry Gilchrist
二段 Nidan
I started in the martial arts in 1968 in a local judo club.In 1970, a Black Belt in Isshin Ryu karate opened a club, I trained there for 2 years until the instructor moved.In 1972, a TKD club started in Cranbrook, and I was involved in the club for the next 8 years.When that instructor left to return to Korea, I carried on practicing what I had learned as well as training with anyone who had any Martial arts experience.When a friend told mein 1998, there was a Kyokushin club in town. I signed up next week. It’s been a great experience with many camps, advanced trainings, and experiencing the feeling of family and friendship that Kyokushin has given me.
Sempai Bill Stalker
二段 Nidan
-Began training at Rocky Mountain Dojo (Kyokushin Karate) Cranbrook on January 6,1995 with Shihan Don Corrigal. -Awarded Shodan Black belt on August 1, 2004 -Awarded Nidan Black belt on August 6,2012 – My training includes: Attending many summer and winter training camps with the IKOK-C Training in Hawaii with the late Shihan Bobby Lowe Six international Black belt conferences and training with senior level instructors from all over the world including Kancho Matsui (head of the IKO world organization). Have participated in several Western Canadian kumite and kata tournaments. I have been certified as a coach, have first aid training and was a corner judge for many years at tournaments in Western Canada. After 30 years of active training continue to learn and progress through attending training camps and on line classes providing up to date training for our club with Canadian instructors in our organization as well as instructors from Japan.
Sempai Maxine Adshead
初段 Shodan
I started training Kyokushin Karate in January 1999 after my children had been training for 5 years. I received my Shodan in 2006. I traveled to Hawaii on 3 occasions to train with Shihan Bobby Lowe. I attend extra training seminars when possible. I enjoy the comradery of other black belts throughout Western Canada. Sharing my appreciation of karate with students of all ages is a pleasure.
Sempai Trudy Larsen
初段 Shodan
Sempai John Darula
初段 Shodan
Sempai Al Watson
初段 Shodan
