"The ultimate aim of Karate lies not in victory or defeat, but in the perfection of character." – Masutatsu Oyama
Who We Are
Authentic Training
Welcome to Toronto Kyokushinkai Karate, where every class is more than just a workout— it's a life lesson in courage, respect, and growth. Our dojo is dedicated to teaching authentic Japanese Kyokushin in a way that kids not only understand—but live by.
Expert Leadership
Our dojo is led by Sensei Darren Lenkorn, a lifelong martial artist and passionate educator. With decades of experience training under the world's best, Sensei Darren brings authentic training to life through a curriculum designed specifically for children's physical and mental development.
Why Kyokushin Karate for Kids?
Respect
Children learn to respect themselves, their peers, instructors, and environments, developing a foundation of courtesy that extends beyond the dojo.
Effort
Our students discover that consistent effort leads to real, measurable results, building a work ethic that serves them in all aspects of life.
Discipline
Through structured training, children develop the focus and self-control to follow through on commitments and resist distractions.
Confidence
As skills improve and challenges are overcome, students build genuine confidence based on actual achievements, not empty praise.
Little Jaguars Program
Listening Skills
Developing the ability to follow directions and respond to instruction promptly.
2
2
Dojo Respect
Learning to honor the training space, instructors, and fellow students.
Basic Techniques
Mastering foundational karate stances, punches, and blocks appropriate for young bodies.
Cooperative Learning
Building social skills through partner exercises and group activities.
Ages 4–6 | Tuesdays 5–5:50 PM & Saturdays 9:15–10:15 AM
$186.44 for 3 months (inclusive)
Our Little Jaguars program is designed with short attention spans and developing motor skills in mind. Every activity plants seeds of character that will grow throughout their karate journey.
Young Lions Program
Advanced Techniques
Learning more complex kihon (techniques) and kata (forms) that challenge both body and mind.
Introduction to Sparring
Developing controlled application of techniques with partners in a safe, supervised environment.
Self-Reflection
Building personal accountability through regular self-assessment and goal-setting practices.
Physical Conditioning
Strengthening the body through age-appropriate exercises that build endurance and flexibility.
Ages 7–12 | Tuesdays 6–7 PM & Saturdays 10:30–11:30 AM
$186.44 for 3 months (inclusive)
As children grow, our Young Lions program expands to meet their increased physical and mental capabilities. Students begin to understand the deeper meaning of the martial path and learn that "no one can do it for you, but you're never alone on the path."
Advanced Class
Leadership & Mentorship
Developing the skills to guide and support junior students
Advanced Strategy
Mastering complex sparring tactics and competition techniques
Complex Kata & Bunkai
Learning advanced forms and their practical applications
For 7th Kyu and higher | Wednesdays from 5:00–6:00 PM
Our advanced class challenges higher belt students to deepen their technical knowledge while developing the Kyokushin spirit. This specialized training prepares students for gradings and tournaments while emphasizing the responsibility that comes with increased skill.
About Sensei Darren Lenkorn
Expert Credentials
As a 4th Dan Black Belt with over 30 years of teaching experience, Sensei Darren has trained under Kyokushin legends and brings world-class instruction to the Toronto community.
Child Development Focus
Sensei Darren's teaching methodology is specifically tailored to children's developmental stages, ensuring appropriate challenges that build confidence without overwhelming young students.
Spirit of Perseverance
Committed to the "osu no seishin" (spirit of perseverance), Sensei Darren instills in every student the belief that they can stand tall, move with purpose, and never give up, regardless of where they start.
What Parents Say About Us
Transformation
"My son used to be shy and unmotivated. Now he stands tall, helps others, and is focused in school. The change in just six months has been remarkable." – Parent of a 9-year-old Young Lion
Confidence Building
"My daughter was bullied at school and lacked confidence. Since joining the dojo, she's developed an inner strength that shows in everything she does. She's happier and more resilient." – Mother of a 7-year-old student
Family Values
"What impressed us most is how the values taught in class – respect, discipline, effort – have become part of our family conversations at home. Kyokushin has given us a shared language about character." – Parents of siblings in the program
It's Not Just a Class. It's a Way of Life.
At Kyokushin, we bow not just out of respect, but to remind ourselves— we are here to grow. The lessons learned on the dojo floor create patterns of thinking and behavior that serve children throughout their lives. We fall. We rise. We push through. Because that's what Karate—and life—requires.