Welcome to Dorfman Karate — a world-class karate dojo recognised among the finest in Johannesburg and beyond.
Train under elite, internationally respected instructors, including KWF Deputy Grandmaster Malcolm Shihan, a 9th Dan Black Belt, at our Parkview (formerly Parktown North) dojo, or learn from Dr Shane Dorfman Shihan, an 8-time World Championand 8th Dan Black Belt, at our Melrose (Birnam) location.
Our karate classes in Johannesburg cater to all ages and skill levels, focusing on discipline, respect, and overall fitness. Experience traditional Japanese karate with the leading martial arts organisation in South Africa. Join us today and elevate your training!
Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from one of the best in the field. Come train with us at Dorfman Karate in Parktown North. Under the expert guidance of Malcolm Dorfman Shihan, a highly respected Chief Instructor and official representative of the Karatenomichi World Federation in South Africa, you’ll receive world-class instruction that emphasises both technique and philosophy.
Training with Shane Dorfman Sensei means more than just learning techniques; it’s about developing discipline, confidence, and a strong sense of community among fellow martial artists. His experience as a former World Shotokan Karate Association open fighting champion and a junior world grand champion means you’ll be trained not only in the art of karate but also in the mindset of a champion.
Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from one of the best in the field. Come train with us at Dorfman Karate in Parktown North. Under the expert guidance of Malcolm Dorfman Shihan, a highly respected Chief Instructor and official representative of the Karatenomichi World Federation in South Africa, you’ll receive world-class instruction that emphasises both technique and philosophy.
Training with Shane Dorfman Sensei means more than just learning techniques; it’s about developing discipline, confidence, and a strong sense of community among fellow martial artists. His experience as a former World Shotokan Karate Association open fighting champion and a junior world grand champion means you’ll be trained not only in the art of karate but also in the mindset of a champion.
Improves Fitness & Strength
Karate enhances overall physical fitness, improving muscle strength, flexibility, and endurance.
Increases Coordination & Balance
Practising katas and techniques improves motor skills and body awareness.
Boosts Reflexes & Agility
Quick movements and sparring enhance reaction times and speed.
Weight Management
Regular training burns calories and helps with weight control.
Enhances Discipline & Focus
Karate instils self-discipline, concentration, and the ability to stay calm under pressure.
Builds Confidence & Self-Esteem
Progressing through belt ranks and mastering skills boosts self-confidence.
Reduces Stress & Anxiety
The physical activity and meditative aspects of karate help relieve stress.
Encourages Respect & Humility
Dojo etiquette and training emphasise respect for instructors, peers, and oneself.
Teaches Practical Self-Defence
Karate equips practitioners with skills to defend themselves effectively.
Improves Awareness & Avoidance
Training sharpens awareness of surroundings and potential dangers.
Develops Emotional Control
Practising self-defence responsibly helps with emotional regulation in tense situations.
Encourages Teamwork & Leadership
Training in a dojo environment fosters cooperation and leadership skills.
Provides a Supportive Community
Being part of a dojo creates friendships and a sense of belonging.
Teaches Goal Setting & Perseverance
Advancing through belt ranks teaches dedication and resilience.
Improves Fitness & Strength
Karate enhances overall physical fitness, improving muscle and core strength, flexibility, and endurance.
Increases Coordination & Balance
Practising katas and techniques improves motor skills and body awareness.
Boosts Reflexes & Agility
Quick movements and sparring enhance reaction times and speed.
Weight Management
Regular training burns calories and helps with weight control.
Enhances Discipline & Focus
Karate instils self-discipline, concentration, and the ability to stay calm under pressure.
Builds Confidence & Self-Esteem
Progressing through belt ranks and mastering skills boosts self-confidence.
Reduces Stress & Anxiety
The physical activity and meditative aspects of karate help relieve stress.
Encourages Respect & Humility
Dojo etiquette and training emphasise respect for instructors, peers, and oneself.
Teaches Practical Self-Defence
Karate equips practitioners with skills to defend themselves effectively.
Improves Awareness & Avoidance
Training sharpens awareness of surroundings and potential dangers.
Develops Emotional Control
Practising self-defence responsibly helps with emotional regulation in tense situations.
Encourages Teamwork & Leadership
Training in a dojo environment fosters cooperation and leadership skills.
Provides a Supportive Community
Being part of a dojo creates friendships and a sense of belonging.
Teaches Goal Setting & Perseverance
Advancing through belt ranks teaches dedication and resilience.
“My son absolutely loves his karate classes with Shane Sensei at Dorfman Karate. The training has helped him develop incredible discipline, confidence, and perseverance. I’ve seen a remarkable improvement in his focus and self-belief since joining.”
“Training at Dorfman Karate has been an incredible journey! Under the expert guidance of Shihan Malcolm Dorfman (9th Dan), I’ve improved my self-discipline, confidence, and fitness. The traditional Shotokan Karate instruction is world-class, making this the best place to learn karate in Johannesburg!”
“Our son has grown leaps and bounds over the last three years! Shane and Malcolm Dorfman are exceptional senseis and the dojo is awesome. Not only do they teach Karate but life skills and discipline. Highly recommended!”
At Dorfman Karate, we teach KWF karate, which is a Shotokan style organisation, headed by the legendary Mikio Yahara Sensei, 10th Dan. KWF (Karatenomichi World Federation) is dedicated to the pursuit of the ‘Single Devastating Strike’ (Ichigeki Hissatsu) in Karate, which serves as a gateway to the essence of Japan’s Martial Arts (Budo). We aim to foster Karate practitioners who embody the spirit of Budo, integrating mind, technique, and body.
Karate improves fitness, flexibility, self-discipline, confidence, and self-defense skills. It also enhances focus and mental strength.
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Yes! Karate is great for children, teens, and adults of all fitness levels. It helps kids develop coordination and discipline while offering adults fitness, stress relief, and self-defense skills.
No prior experience is required! Beginners are welcome, and classes are structured to accommodate all skill levels.
Yes! Karate teaches practical self-defense techniques, awareness, and how to react in real-life situations.
It depends on your goals. Training twice a week is recommended for beginners to build a strong foundation. Advanced students may train more frequently.
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