The best karate school in Ottawa.
Come see the difference. Building confidence, discipline and strong families through karate — programs for kids, teens and adults in a positive, motivating environment.
Please use the rear entrance
- Our dojo entrance is located at the back of the building, accessible from Gladwin Crescent.
- Look for the grey door with the Karate logo above it, next to the white garage door.
- Please arrive 5–10 minutes before your class.
Karate for all ages & skill levels
At Karate So, we help kids, teens and adults build confidence, discipline, focus and strength through professional karate training in a positive and supportive environment.
Our classes improve fitness, self-defense skills, leadership and mental resilience — helping students grow on and off the mats. Beginner or experienced, individuals and families train, learn and succeed together here.
Kihon · Kata · Kumite
Kihon · Basics
The foundation: stances, punches, blocks and kicks repeated with precision until they become second nature.
Kata · Forms
Set sequences of techniques performed along a floor pattern, building balance, rhythm, focus and fighting spirit.
Kumite · Sparring
Applying technique with a partner under control and respect. Timing, distance, courage and calm under pressure.
Step onto the mat
Tap a fighter to attack, swing the lanterns, shake the sakura branch and touch the rising sun. Osu!
From first stance to black belt
Choose a technique or kata, from beginner basics to black-belt level, and watch our animated sensei show you how it’s done.
Age to start
Expert instructors
Training days / week
Free trial days
Find your program
Ninja Class
A fun first step into karate through games and drills that build focus, coordination and respect.
Beginner Class
Karate fundamentals for new students: technique, discipline, coordination and confidence.
Advanced Class
Sharper technique, kata and kumite for experienced students ready to push further.
Adult Class
Practical self-defence, conditioning and stress relief. Beginners welcome.
Learn from the best
Every belt tells a story
Students earn each new belt through effort, practice and a grading. Colours below follow the Kyokushin tradition; your instructor will guide you through every step.
The beginning. An empty cup, ready to learn the basics and dojo etiquette.
First foundations: stances, basic punches, blocks and kicks.
Calm and control. Techniques start to flow together.
Power and focus. Stronger kata and first steps in sparring.
Growth. Technique, timing and endurance mature.
Experience and responsibility. Preparing body and mind for black belt.
Shodan, the first degree. Not the end, but the true beginning of the path.
Strong body. Strong mind. Strong character.
"Osu" is heard in every karate dojo. It expresses respect, patience and the will to push forward through hard training. These values guide every class at Karate So.
Respect
For instructors, training partners, the dojo and yourself.
Discipline
Showing up, listening and doing the work, especially when it's hard.
Perseverance
Push on, never give up. The heart of "Osu".
Humility
Always a student. Every belt is a new beginning.
Courage
Face challenges in the dojo and in life with a calm, strong spirit.
Build your confidence. Improve your physical ability. Learn to defend yourself.
Claim your free pass →Classes
Structured programs that build strength, discipline, focus and lifelong confidence — whatever your age.
Ninja Class
A fun first step into karate through games and drills that build focus, coordination and respect.
- Ages 4 – 6
- Saturday mornings
- Learning through play
Beginner Class
Karate fundamentals for new students: technique, discipline, coordination and confidence.
- No experience needed
- Belt progression
- Tuesday & Friday
Advanced Class
Sharper technique, kata and kumite for experienced students ready to push further.
- Kata & kumite
- Fighting Class access
- Competition training
Adult Class
Practical self-defence, conditioning and stress relief. Beginners welcome.
- Beginners welcome
- Full-body fitness
- Real self-defence skills
Family Pass
Train together. One pass for the whole family to grow, learn and succeed side by side.
Ask about itFull Season Pass
Commit to the full season and get the most out of your training journey.
Ask about itNot sure which class fits? Try 3 days free.
Meet the team
Dedicated instructors committed to helping every student succeed.
Sensei David Ricci
Training since 1986 · Teaching since 1998
Sensei David Ricci’s journey in karate began in 1986, and since then he has remained steadfast in his dedication to the art. Holding a 4th Dan black belt, he views karate as far more than a sport — it is a path to self-discovery, discipline and personal growth. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of karate: he has learned not only techniques but life lessons that extend beyond the dojo.
- Discipline
- Karate
- Belt
- Black
- Pro record
- 12-2
Senpai Alexandru Ganea
Training since 1998 · National team member
Karate has been my passion and way of life since I first stepped onto the dojo floor at the age of 15 in 1998. What started as a dream quickly became a lifelong commitment to excellence, discipline, and continuous self-improvement.
- Discipline
- Karate
- Belt
- Black
- Pro record
- —
Julanne Poissant
Training since 2014 · 1st Dan Black Belt
Sensei Julanne Poissant began her karate journey at the age of seven in 2014 at Centre de Karaté Perez, the first So-Kyokushin dojo in North America under Shihan Hugo Perez. Through years of dedication, discipline, and perseverance, she earned her 1st Dan Black Belt in 2019 and successfully completed her adult black belt examination in 2022.
- Discipline
- Karate
- Belt
- Black
- Pro record
- —
Alexandrina Ganea
Started karate in Montréal at age 6
Alexandrina Ganea began her karate journey in Montréal at the age of six. Since then, she has trained with dedication, determination, and a passion for continuous improvement.
- Discipline
- Karate
- Belt
- Brown belt 2 kyu
- Pro record
- —
Caroline Filion Bagirubwira
Kyokushin karate since the early 2000s
Caroline began her Kyokushin karate journey in the early 2000s under Shihan Lino Gambuto, building a strong foundation throughout her teenage years. Developing a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for proper technique from an early age shaped her approach to karate. With four tournament trophies in kata and kumite between 2005 and 2007, Caroline’s skills were tested early in her journey.
- Discipline
- Karate
- Belt
- Brown belt 2 kyu
- Pro record
- —
Tap any instructor to read their full story, medals and the classes they teach.
Try a free class! Sign up to claim your free pass.
Sign up →Schedule
Our weekly training schedule: classes for kids from 4 years old, teens and adults, Monday to Saturday.
2026 Karate classes schedule
Our classes
Why choose Karate So?
- Certified Shinkyokushinkai instructors
- Tournament opportunities
- Classes for children, teens and adults
- Structured belt progression
- Build confidence, discipline and fitness
- Friendly and supportive dojo environment
Not sure which group you're in? Call us at (613) 316-2726.
Gym etiquette
All students and attendees of Karate So are expected to follow these codes of conduct.
Respect the dojo
The dojo is a place of learning and self-improvement. Treat the dojo, instructors and fellow students with care and appreciation.
Bowing
Bow when entering and leaving the dojo, before working with a partner, and at the start and end of class — a sign of respect, gratitude and humility.
Arrive on time
Arrive a few minutes early, ready to train. Punctuality shows discipline and respect for instructors and classmates.
Listen & stay focused
When instructors speak, stay quiet, attentive and focused. Following instructions keeps everyone training safely.
Respect others
Encourage teammates and treat everyone with kindness, regardless of age or skill. Bullying, disrespect or inappropriate language are never acceptable.
Self-control outside the dojo
Karate skills are for self-defense and protection only. Show respect, discipline and good behaviour inside and outside the dojo.
Karate is more than martial arts — it is a path to confidence, leadership and character for life.
FAQ
Get answers to our most frequently asked questions.
What age can children start karate?
Do I need previous martial arts experience?
Is it too late to start karate as an adult?
How do I try a class?
How do I register?
What should I wear to the first class?
What style of karate do you teach?
When are classes held?
Which group is right for me or my child?
What is the Fighting Class?
Can parents watch the classes?
How much do classes cost?
What passes do you offer?
Do you have family options?
Is karate safe for kids?
Do students have to fight?
How do belt gradings work?
How often should I train?
What benefits will my child get from karate?
Do you offer online training?
No matching questions. Try another word, or contact us.
Question not listed? Get in touch with us →
Store
Official Karate SO uniforms, team apparel and protective gear.
All items are sold and picked up at our dojo, 2212 Gladwin Crescent A3, Ottawa. To reserve an item or ask about sizes, email karateso@outlook.com or call (613) 316-2726.
Take your karate to the next level with expert instruction & technique videos.
Ask about online trainingClaim your free pass
Three days on the mats, on us. Fill in the form and we'll be in touch.
Please use the rear entrance
- Our dojo entrance is located at the back of the building, accessible from Gladwin Crescent.
- Look for the grey door with the Karate logo above it, next to the white garage door.
- Please arrive 5–10 minutes before your class.
- ⌂Dojo2212 Gladwin Crescent A3
Ottawa, ON K1B 5N1Use the rear entrance - ☎Phone(613) 316-2726
- ✉Emailkarateso@outlook.com
Ottawa, ON K1B 5N1