black and white bed linen

Wado-Ryu Martial Arts Studio

I don't want to fight with you, but I will defend me.
- Sensei Ernie Dunkelberger

Sensei Ernie Dunkelberger and Senpai

Experience the way of peace through our character-building martial arts classes led by Sensei Ernie Dunkelberger, a national kata champion and PA Karate Hall of Fame inductee with over 40 years of teaching experience. Our Senpai, senior students, include international competitors and instruct students as well.

Sensei Ernie Dunkelberger competing in national karate competition
Sensei Ernie Dunkelberger competing in national karate competition
Karate dojo senpai with Wado Ryu grandmaster
Karate dojo senpai with Wado Ryu grandmaster

About Wado-Ryu Karate

Wado-Ryu is one of the four main branches of Japanese karate. It translates to "Way of Harmony and Peace." Founded by Hironori Ohtsuka in 1938, it blends elements of traditional Japanese jujutsu and Okinawan karate, focusing on self-defense, personal development, and the efficient use of energy and movement.

The Transformative Power of Wado-Ryu

Unlock your potential and embark on a journey of self-improvement with Wado-Ryu Karate. Whether you're looking to enhance your physical fitness, learn effective self-defense, or find inner peace, Wado-Ryu Karate offers a holistic path to a better you. Here’s are some of the many benefits of karate.

Boost Physical Fitness and Relieve Stress
Students training karate outside
Students training karate outside

Karate isn’t just about physical prowess; it’s a mental discipline too. Enhance your focus, build willpower, and develop emotional control. The mental benefits of karate will help you in all areas of your life, from work to personal relationships.

Karate is a fantastic way to de-stress. The physical activity releases endorphins, natural mood lifters, and the focus required helps clear your mind. Leave each session feeling rejuvenated and calm.

Sparring to practice self defense techniques
Sparring to practice self defense techniques
Building character with karate
Building character with karate
Learn Practical Self-Defense

Feel confident and secure with practical self-defense skills. Learn powerful strikes, kicks, and blocks that can protect you in real-life situations. Our training prepares you to handle various threats effectively and safely.

You’ll gain the knowledge and skills to defend yourself and your loved ones, giving you peace of mind and a sense of empowerment.

Karate isn’t just about physical prowess; it’s a mental discipline too. Enhance your focus, build willpower, and develop emotional control. The mental benefits of karate will help you in all areas of your life, from work to personal relationships.

Embrace the virtues of humility, respect, and integrity. Karate-do is about continuous self-improvement and overcoming personal challenges. Grow into the best version of yourself with each training session.

Sharpen Your Mind and Build Character

Discover the Benefits of Karate for Kids and Families

Karate offers incredible benefits for children, making it an excellent activity for their growth and development. In a safe and supportive environment, kids learn when and how to fight, gaining essential self-defense skills while fostering respect and discipline. Karate provides a healthy outlet for energy, helping to relieve stress and anxiety through physical activity. Additionally, the practice instills emotional regulation and discipline, teaching children to manage their emotions and stay focused. Join us to help your child build confidence, develop resilience, and find a positive way to channel their energy!

Father and daughter family karate students pose with awards
Father and daughter family karate students pose with awards

See What Our Students Have to Say

Discover what our clients think about our service

Sensei Dunkelberger has trained my step father, my two brothers, and now my wife, three children, and I. Wado Ryu, as one of the four main styles of karate, is rooted in tradition and values. Wado-Ryu emphasizes the development of respect, honor, discipline, and understanding as well as the science of fighting. His senpai, senior students, are extremely talented martial artists in their own right including national champions in the form. The instruction and training at this dojo has been a great experience for my family.

Ben Donahower, Ephrata PA

Best Karate instructors around. Sensei Ernie Dunkelberger continues to do a magnificent job teaching and building kids up in our community!

Mike Onenine, Stevens PA

★★★★★
★★★★★

Wado-Ryu Martial Arts Studio

There's nothing to lose. Your first week is free.

Studio

1832 N. Reading Rd
Steven, PA 17578

Classes

Monday - Thursday
6 to 6:45 PM - New to Yellow Belts
7 to 7:45 PM - Orange to Purple Belts
7:45 to 8:15 PM - Green to Black Belts

1st and 3rd Saturday
9 to 10 AM - All Belt Ranks

Get directions from Ephrata or New Holland here.

Start Your Martial Arts Journey

Send Sensei a message today!

Students earning new belts pose on promotion day
Students earning new belts pose on promotion day