Karate Classes in Columbus, Ohio
Traditional roots. Modern self-defense. Starting age 4.
Ryu-Saiichi-Do Kenpo Karate Jutsu is a self-defense system built in South Columbus by Master Steven Hatfield. Our Karate classes integrate striking, Okinawan weapons, and ground work into one cohesive art, with an emphasis on the mechanics and principles that make technique effective regardless of size or physical strength. Students age 4 and up are welcome with no prior experience, athletic ability, or flexibility required to begin.
What the first month looks like
Your first month is about the building blocks. How to stand, how to move, how to strike, and what it feels like to train with a partner. You will develop balance, coordination, and an early understanding of self-defense, alongside the etiquette and discipline of the dojo.
Intermediate and advanced students train in later slots on the same evenings. Private sessions are available Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday by appointment.
How this fits with the rest of the dojo
The Karate program is about what happens on your feet: striking, distance management, and standing technique, including Okinawan weapons as you advance. The Judo and Jujutsu program picks up where that leaves off, covering throws and ground control for when things move to close range. Both programs are built around real self-defense, not competition. Students who train in both get the full picture.
The system behind the classes
What you are learning here is Ryu-Saiichi-Do Kenpo Karate Jutsu, a self-defense system that Master Steven Hatfield built. Its foundation is Goju Ryu, an Okinawan Karate style built on close-range striking, body conditioning, and practical application. Master Hatfield trained in Japan and Okinawa, and was named headmaster of the Wae-Kune Do Karate lineage in 2024.
As you progress, you add grappling principles, joint mechanics, and Okinawan weapons alongside empty-hand technique. There is no fixed timeline to the next belt. The Technician Dojo is not a belt factory.
For parents of younger students
We regularly enroll students starting at age 4. Parents often tell us the mat is one of the first places their child learns to listen, follow directions, and push through something difficult, not because they have to, but because they want to. Confidence and self-control tend to develop over the first few months, and many families notice the change at home and at school before they notice it in the techniques.
If your child is shy, easily frustrated, or simply looking for an activity that builds character alongside physical skills, this is worth trying. Class sizes are kept small so every student gets direct attention from Master Hatfield or a senior instructor.
Why Choose Ryu-Saiichi-Do Kenpo Karate?
Start Training in Columbus, Ohio
Open to students age 4 and up. No prior experience required.
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What Our Members Say
"The level of dedication and seriousness they bring to the art is unmatched, and it's inspired my son to rise to that same level of commitment. The trainer-to-student ratio is excellent, allowing him to receive focused, individualized attention that has helped him grow tremendously. The owner, Steve, is exceptionally kind, honest, and professional."
Alicia Cooper
"I could not speak more highly of Sensei Hatfield. The environment and class culture speaks for itself, but the safe space to learn and the disciplined curriculum is like no other in the area. We have visited a number of facilities around Columbus and this place is hands down the best around."
Karen Tussey
"As a lifelong martial artist myself, I can confidently say that the real life self defense training that is taught far surpasses any expectations I may have had beforehand. Master Hatfield is a true martial artist that refuses to sugarcoat and tells it like it is. His compassion for his students and the love he has for the arts is truly admirable."
Miranda Smith
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