Karate for Adults

Since 1987, the Lower Bucks Shotokan Karate Club (LBSKC) has provided instruction in Shotokan karate for those who want to pursue a serious, in-depth study of an authentic Japanese martial art. Our program is uniquely suited to adults who wish to study karate for increased fitness and flexibility, basic self-defense, and improved mental focus. We welcome new students throughout the year and visitors may observe our classes at any time to see if our program might be right for them.

Over the past 21 years we have provided programs through Temple University, Mercer County Community College, Rider University, and the Neshaminy and Pennsbury School District. We have also run low cost karate programs and free self-defense seminars through the Salvation Army and numerous other local community service organizations.

LBSKC classes are held at the Newtown Swim Club, located at 761 Newtown Yardley Road. If you’d like to try our classes, costs for training with the LBSKC are very reasonable. Tuition is $50 per month, with members of the Newtown Swim Club receiving a 50% discount. Aside from that, a good quality entry-level karate uniform will cost about $40.

The LBSKC does not charge any testing fees. If you pass a rank test, new belts cost about $5 each. If you’d like to receive an official certificate showing your new rank, they’re $10 each.

Basic protective equipment will be needed after the first couple months of practice. All students will need a good mouthguard ($15) and simple knuckle pads ($25) . Male students will need protective groin cups ($25). All students under age 18 are required to have approved protective headgear ($35).

Students are also required to maintain annual membership in the United States Amateur Athletic Union (AAU). The cost for this is $14 for Youth Members (age 20 or less), and $27 for Adult Members.

The Lower Bucks Shotokan Karate Club (LBSKC) is a tax-exempt Section 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Tuition charged for classes covers the cost of renting a facility for practice. Incidental expenses associated with running the club are covered by donations and revenue from the sale of books, uniforms, and equipment. The club will provide uniforms, safety equipment, and AAU membership dues for children whose families can’t afford them. Donations from club members to help with this are welcome, but never asked for or required. Donations may also be tax-deductible; please consult your tax professional. Our financial records are always open to all members of the club for review.

Giving Back

For the past forty years, one of the most unique features of the Shotokan Karate Association (SKA) is that none of our instructors have made their living from teaching karate. All SKA instructors are successfully employed outside of the karate club; we teach because we enjoy what we do and because we want to share it with our families, friends, and community.

Most SKA clubs charge just enough to cover the cost of renting space to practice or they are located in YMCA’s, schools, or community centers where karate is one of many programs offered for a low fee.

In the same spirit of community service, all LBSKC instructors and students volunteer twice each year, in March and August, to spend a day helping others. Parents, family and friends of the LBSKC are always welcome to join us.

Volunteer days may include activities like helping out with a charity event, participating in a local fundraising activity, or helping another local non-profit organization.

Members are invited to suggest volunteering opportunities throughout the year and the club votes as a group to decide who we’ll volunteer with each time.

Please contact us if you have any questions about our club.