The Midwest Karate Association is a traditional Shotokan Karate dojo recognized by the Japan Karate Association and the American Amateur Karate Federation. Our instructors, Sensei Joel Ertl, 5th dan and Sensei Anita Bendickson, 4th dan, are internationally respected instructors. Sensei's Ertl and Bendickson have each been teaching karate for over 25 years. The Midwest Karate Association of St Paul is located in St Paul, Minnesota. It is conveniently located on 7th Street in St Paul's east side.
Visitors are welcome to observe any class.
About Shotokan Karate Shotokan Karate originated in Okinawa, a small island south of Japan. It was popularized in Japan by Gichin Funakoshi in the 1950s. Shotokan Karate is a traditional martial art. This means that improvements in character and mental discipline are as important as physical skill, if not more so. Shotokan Karate is meant to be accessible to all, including, women, children, and those without great athletic ability.