Traditional Okinawan Karate

Self-defense, mindfulness,
and wellness.

The practice of karate can be started at any age, continued over your entire life, and conveys physical and mental benefits that can improve every aspect of your life.

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Our Mission

More than self-defense — a path for life

We teach traditional Okinawan karate to instill the virtues of respect, courtesy, humility, discipline, perseverance, honesty, and loyalty — in order to better our community and the lives of those living in it.

Authentic Tradition

Matsumura Orthodox Shōrin-ryū and White Crane karate, taught with classical Okinawan methods.

Our Style

All Ages, All Abilities

Children and adults train together. No yearly contract, and a sliding scale so all can learn.

Lessons

Experienced Instruction

Led by Renshi Matt Hogan — 35 years of experience and a Godan in Okinawan Shorin-ryu.

Meet the Instructor
The Crane Karate Academy crane

Our Namesake

The white crane — balance, precision, and power

Our name honors the white crane — Hakutsuru — a fighting art born in Fujian, China, prized for its balance, precision, and soft-to-hard power. Carried to Okinawa through centuries of exchange, its principles settled quietly into the island's karate.

We practice Matsumura Seitō Shōrin-ryū, its movement shaped by Okinawan White Crane: upright and natural in posture, light and evasive in movement, open-handed and continuous — soft until the instant power is needed. The crane is how we move, not only what we are called.

Discover our White Crane art

From the Dojo

Reading on the Way

Matt Hogan · Apr 17, 2025

Why traditional martial arts?

MMA and traditional arts both build fitness and discipline — but which prepares you for real life, over a lifetime?

Matt Hogan · Apr 17, 2025

Practical Self-defense Against Habitual Acts of Violence

Karate's roots and its enduring purpose: practical defense against the threats we still face today.

Matt Hogan · Apr 1, 2025

Kata: The Heart of Karate

Why kata is the heart of karate — and three Okinawan stories that teach its deeper lessons.
Read all articles

Questions & Answers

Frequently asked questions

What ages can train at Crane Karate Academy?

Karate can be started at any age and practiced over a lifetime. Children and adults train together in the same all-ages classes and learn the same curriculum — children fully participate and quickly develop discipline, respect, and focus.

When and where are classes held?

Group classes meet Tuesday and Thursday from 6:00–7:30 PM and Saturday from 11:00 AM–12:15 PM at 77 Elm Street, Suite 203, Amesbury, MA. We welcome students from Amesbury, Newburyport, Salisbury, Merrimac, West Newbury, and Newbury.

Do I need experience or a uniform to start?

No experience is needed — beginners are always welcome and start with the same fundamentals everyone builds on. Comfortable athletic clothing is fine for your first lessons; for regular training a white or black karate gi is worn, and one is included when you enroll.

How much do classes cost?

Tuition is $159 per month for an individual and $80 per month for each additional family member, with no yearly contract. A one-time enrollment fee ($199 individual or $250 family) covers your first month, uniform, patches, and federation registration. Scholarships are available for those who need assistance — just ask.

What style of karate do you teach?

We teach Matsumura Orthodox Shōrin-ryū, a traditional Okinawan style with movement shaped by Okinawan White Crane (Hakutsuru). Our kata emphasize real combat applications — nerve strikes, grappling, body alignment, and pressure-point techniques — taught with classical methods.

How is traditional karate different from MMA or sport karate?

Modern combat sports center on competition and joint stress that isn't sustainable over a lifetime. Traditional Okinawan karate is defensive in nature and meant to be practiced for life — you learn to avoid and de-escalate conflict first, and to protect yourself effectively when there is no other option. As the maxim goes, "There is no first attack in karate."

Is the training full-contact? Will I spar?

Yes — every class includes kumite (sparring) alongside basics, kata, calisthenics, and self-defense, and it is always controlled and closely supervised. The rules are strict: no contact to the face or below the waist, only light contact to headgear, and never any sparring without instructor supervision. Required protective gear includes padded gloves and boots, headgear, a mouthguard, and groin protection. Beginners build a foundation first; as students advance, the art becomes softer, emphasizing flow, control, and quickly stopping an attacker.

How do I get started?

Your first two private 20-minute introductory lessons are free. Email us at cranekaratedojo@gmail.com or stop by during class hours to watch a class and meet the instructor — there's no commitment, just come see if it's the right fit.

What Students Say

From our dojo family

"I have studied different martial arts for over 50 years. All the schools have been great, but Crane Karate Academy is outstanding. Sensei Matt Hogan excels in his knowledge, ability, instruction, intelligence, kindness, and consideration for the individual needs and safety of his students. This is traditional karate at its finest, in a family environment."

Student · 50-year martial artist

"As a father, it means so much to see my 12-year-old son flourish here. Sensei Matt has been an incredible mentor — he instills real confidence in my son, and the studio's core values are just fantastic. Highly recommend it to any parents looking for a well-rounded martial arts experience!"

Parent of a student

"Although I just started, I can already tell this is a great place to train. The instructor is very experienced and explains everything in a clear and structured way. He creates a positive and focused training environment while still being supportive and encouraging."

Adult beginner

Five-star reviews from our students on Google.

Begin Your Training

Classes for every member of the family

Our Tuesday and Thursday classes are all-ages, taught using traditional methods. Every class includes basics, kata, calisthenics, self-defense, and kumite. Drop us a line to schedule your first visit.

Class Hours
Tuesday6:00 – 7:30 PM
Thursday6:00 – 7:30 PM
Saturday11:00 AM – 12:15 PM
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