The primary martial art taught at Crosswinds is Okinawan Gōjū-ryū Karate-do. Created by Chōjun Miyagi in 1930, the name of the style combines the characters for gō (hard) and jū (soft), referring to its mix of hard, closed-handed linear techniques and soft, open-handed circular ones. Gōjū-ryū students learn to develop their skills by practicing forms called kata, and then applying them in partner drills called bunkai. Kata teaches a wide variety of techniques, from basic strikes and blocks to joint locks, take-downs, throws, and a range of clinch and grappling skills. However, it is our philosophy that limiting our training to one style is detrimental to becoming a prepared and well-rounded martial artist. We must seek what our teachers sought, and in doing so we believe that our traditional karate training must be supplemented with a wide range of other martial arts skills. Students are expected to spar and grapple regularly, becoming proficient at fighting both while standing and on the ground. The dojo offers classes focused entirely on traditional Japanese Hakkō-ryū Jūjutsu, where students learn to gain control over their attackers and enhance their grappling skills. Weapons training is available in the form of our Jōdō class, where students learn to use a short staff called a jō. The traditional Okinawan Kobudō weapons are taught during regularly scheduled classes and seminars throughout the year. Supplemental skills beneficial to martial arts such as strength and agility training are routinely worked into class, and students are also taught to control the anger, fear, and pride that so regularly leads to the conflicts of our day-to-day lives. We believe in creating well-rounded students able to confront any challenge they face, be it physical, mental, or emotional, and our curriculum reflects that.

Children as young as 4 and up to 6 years old are able to train at Crosswinds in our Little Ninja class. At this age, students are primarily taught the basic physical skills necessary for developing future martial arts skills in fun, 30-minute classes. Little ninjas will improve their skills in balance, coordination, and focus while learning how to defend themselves against bullies and adults. Little ninjas are also taught to be respectful to others and how to deal with anger, ensuring that the skills they learn are used only when they’re absolutely needed.

Our Juniors classes are taught to students from ages 7 up to 13. Juniors classes are split up into a beginners and advanced class. The beginners class is 45 minutes long, and focuses on teaching students engaging skills and drills that introduce them to the world of martial arts. From there, they graduate to the 60-minute advanced class, where they begin to learn some of the more traditional karate skills such as kata. They also begin sparring, while wearing protective gear, at this stage.

Above the age of 12 students may take our Adult classes. This class incorporates the traditional karate skills of kata and bunkai, as well as sparring, grappling, and self-defense against both armed and unarmed opponents. Physical conditioning is a huge part of our training at Crosswinds, and adults should prepare for a tough but fun workout. Adult classes are 90 minutes long, incorporating a long warm-up and finish with stretching to ensure the health and safety of our students.