We are a world class Shotokan karate program connected to a network of dojos around the country, and the oldest active dojo in Tokyo, Japan.

We provide traditional and personalized martial arts instruction to committed and mature individuals interested in learning the art of karate-do and self-defense.

No Contracts! No Registration Fees! No Gimmicks! Just Outstanding Martial Arts Training at Excellent Value!

Sensei Andrew Faupel is the Chief Instructor and founder of Kenkojuku Karate of South Jersey and began his journey in Shotokan karate nearly 40 years ago. The majority of his training was within the USA Kenkojuku Karate Association under Master Masakazu Takahashi, 8th Dan. Sensei Faupel was promoted to the rank of Yondan (4th degree black belt) in 2015. Over the last decade he has spent considerable time encouraging a greater connection among Kenkojuku leaders in the United States and Japan. In 2019 he was appointed as a Senior Advisor and is now President of the American Shotokan Karate-do Kenkojuku Alliance.

Karate is an excellent discipline that promotes character development, hard work, determination, self-protection, self-control and courtesy. It can be both physically and mentally demanding. Here are a few things you should know before your first class:

Sensei and the other students are there to help you, not hurt you. Don’t be intimidated, everyone in the room was once a white belt and will guide you. This community of instructors and black belts will be mentors and do everything they can to welcome and encourage you.

Demonstrate respect and you will be respected. As a traditional Japanese martial art, Shotokan karate is rooted in courtesy. Gichin Funakoshi (the father of modern karate) once said, “Karate begins and ends with courtesy” and you will feel that as soon as you walk into the dojo.

When you step on the training floor, be prepared to work hard. The martial aspect of karate training is about learning to use most of your body as a defensive weapon. It is physically demanding and through practice you will build strength, flexibility, speed, coordination and technique. That said, everyone goes at their own pace in their journey in the martial arts.

Karate training is as much mental as physical, keep an open mind. Although we often focus on the application of the techniques we learn, the practice of karate-do is a way of life that teaches you how to adapt to obstacles in the dojo and in daily life.