We are the United Karate System, our classes are held in Bowling Green, Findlay, Napoleon, and Ottawa Ohio. We are men and women just like you who have a common goal: to learn more about the martial arts, specifically karate. The style we study is best described as American eclectic. Our founder, Robert Nicholson, took his knowledge of Goju, Chung Do Kwon and other arts and blended them together using an "if it works, use it" philosophy. We train in all areas-kata, sparring, weapons and self defense. Our style welcomes people of other styles as well as those who have no previous experience. We encourage people to come watch our classes and get an idea of what we are all about. Our instructors will answer any questions you may have.

     Above all, the UKS strives to uphold the definition of karate set forth by Gichin Funakoshi, the father of modern karate.

"A true karate-ka is one with the godlike capacity to think and feel for others, irrespective of their rank or position. A true karate-ka is one who possesses ideals so lofty, a mind so delicate, that they raise this karate-ka above all things ignoble and base, yet strengthen the karate-ka's hands to raise those who have fallen, no matter how low. The ultimate aim of karate, therefore, lies not in victory or defeat, but in the perfection of the character of its participants."

     The UKS has trained over 130 men and women to the rank of black belt. All students undergo a rigorous training regimen to prepare them for the 4 to 6 hour black belt test. All UKS black belts are registered with the American Karate Association (AKA), one of the best known governing bodies for American martial arts.

     Students in the class range in age from 8 to 50+. All students start in the beginner class. Here they are taught the basics of blocking, kicking and striking as well as body awareness and balance. Then they progress to the intermediate class where the basics are refined and sparring (fighting) begins. Sparring begins with drills to practice technique and control and then progresses to free sparring. Students from yellow belt to brown belt rank train in the advanced class. More techniques, advanced self defense and weapons training are included here. All students ar eligible to compete in tournaments if they wish and the style hold two tournaments a year at Bowling Green State University.