Karate Canberra - Cummings Karate Dojo

I first got on the mat 2 years ago to help my almost 5yo, then joined the adult classes myself (karate and kobudo).Sensei Reece is absolutely brilliant, instructors are friendly and helpful. The dojo culture is very supportive and welcoming (among students and parents).I remembered my decision to have my children train in this dojo was a no-brainer when I overheard a conversation between a parent and Sensei during our trial classes... the parent was asking why her child was not invited to grade though the child has achieved all the stripe tests, and Sensei explained that to earn the next kyu (belt), one needs to demonstrate the 3As: attitude, ability and attendance.I believe we have an amazing dojo because Sensei stresses on the importance of respect as much as our skills. I also love the dedicated mat talk that Sensei has with the children - from karate history to dealing with bullying, to values (what is humility/integrity).I am glad to be part of the dojo and I agree wholeheartedly with other reviewers: 'Come for the training, stay for the community', the emphasis on 'why' as much as 'how', Sensei's tireless effort in teaching and the smooth running of the dojo.Here's many years to come!

I've been training at Sensei Reece's dojo for a few years now, and I find it to be an excellent experience. He is tirelessly enthusiastic, knowledgeable and genuinely wants to teach. The character of the dojo itself flows out from this. There is a real sense of community and inclusiveness. Everyone gets an opportunity to learn.The actual substance of the karate we practice is practical, useful and well grounded. It is also extremely authentic, with techniques having been handed down to Sensei Reece from Okinawan masters.

This is one of the best karate school in Northside of Canberra where my little daughter learn martial art. She feel stronger and confident after going to the martial class. There are many technique to learn, which instructing them carefully step by step. My daughter only went up the next level in a few weeks. They also organise meeting class at the end of term or year with numerable activities. Instructors are also patient and kind with special kids who need more supports to upgrade their skills. Easy parking just in front of the classroom and surroundings. Highly recommend to parents and adult who want to be strong and develop skills for self protection.

My 2 kids are getting trained under Mr. Reece Cummings just for the last one month and the limited experience we all had with this Dojo and Mr. Reece is amazing. I really admire Mr. Reece's commitment and positive attitude on this profession and the perfection he extend and expect from the students are commendable. Apart from teaching Karate he is reasoning out on various aspects of this art which is really appreciable. I wanted my kids to comment on the rating and they graded 5 stars and their feedback are: Akshad: Sensei is very polite and friendly and i am happy to learn Karate here. Advaith: Sensei is teaching us slow to make sure we are clear in understanding the Kata, but expect perfection from us and ensures that we deliver it. The kids are really motivated to be trained under Reece Cummings in this Dojo. He is really inspiring on Karate and would make any person (not only the students!) to think about learning Karate. However, i got some suggestion to make: The number of students to be trained in a session is too much as about17 students approximately were present and it would be impossible to provide complete attention to all the students by him and the quality may get compromised in long run and if we can restrict this to a maximum of 10 students in a batch it would be great. Also the student manual to be strictly enforced as it is really good and must be adopted by all students.

The level of commitment to quality instruction and personal development of every student is truly outstanding. My son has been a student at the dojo for about 7 years and I cannot rate it highly enough. Students not only learn karate, but also good values, respect, confidence and leadership skills.

Since starting training at Kodokan Matsubayashi-ryu Cummings Karate Dojo, my self confidence has improved, as well as my fitness. Sensei Reece is a wonderful instructor who has made me feel comfortable from the start and is a great support for all his students.

Cummings Karate Dojo offers an exceptional martial arts experience with a strong connection to Okinawa. The instructors are knowledgeable, dedicated, and skilled in various martial arts styles, focusing on traditional Okinawan methods. The Dojo's affiliation with authentic Okinawan martial arts associations and their close ties to esteemed masters in Okinawa add authenticity to the training. The facility is clean and welcoming, fostering a supportive environment for students of all ages and skill levels. The curriculum is well-rounded, catering to individual needs and goals. Regular events and seminars enhance the learning experience. I highly recommend Cummings Karate Dojo for those seeking an authentic Okinawan karate training and a remarkable martial arts community.

I have been involved in martial arts for more than 3 decades. This dojo is without doubt the most organised, well run club I have ever trained at. The facility is great, communication is frequent and clear and the environment very welcoming. Sensei Reece is a highly professional teacher who is exceptionally dedicated to both his craft and ensuring a quality experience for his students.

My son and I have been training with Sensei Reece for almost four years. Sensei is extremely knowledgeable on all aspects of the style and is an excellent teacher of both the kids and adults. My son (12 years old) still enjoys going every week and describes it as interesting and lively". It has benefited his coordination and balance immensely.Sensei is excellent at explaining the theory behind techniques and the practical application of the kata techniques.If you are interested in studying traditional Okinawan karate then I would definitely recommend checking out Cummings Karate Dojo."

Having been training with Sensei Reece for 12 months now I had to chuckle at the negative reviews that I read within this summary. Noting that one of the reviews stated that nobody greeted them, that nobody knew that they were there on a trail and that also that nobody assisted them, here is a detail of my experience from one year ago to now. Having sent an enquiry online to conduct a trial, I received an email reply within hours. I was given a choice of dates commence my trial which came with follow up emails to detail the date, time and location for me, including what I should wear and what I should bring. I arrived to see a sign on the front counter welcoming me, by name. I was given a Dojo T-Shirt to wear and had several people introduce themselves to me and seek to assist me. People were only to happy to train with me and show me the basics. 12 months later I have been witness to the professionalism and the absolute dedication that Sensei Reece gives to his dojo. He has created a family within this marital arts community and has educated me not only on the physical, but the historical and cultural linkages of Karate, Shorin-Ryu and Masubayashi-Ryu. His training is first class, his approach is easily understood and he is with the best instructors that I have seen anywhere in any discipline, be that in a tertiary world, the martial arts or the military. To the comments that mention, the price, for one, this studio is Not for profit". I run a business and I have seen the amount of work (on the surface) that goes into this Dojo