the vision
The ancient art of Shotokai Karate is utilized to empower women and children to unleash their true potential and build confidence. The Dojo is a non judgemental, safe and relaxed learning environment. The classes are designed for all levels of physical ability and take an holistic approach to learning Karate. Shotokai Karate is not sport karate and therefore there are no tournaments. We focus on self development and self defense.
classes
Class fees
ABOUT zoë
Hello my name is Zoë and I am the head instructor at Zenshin Dojo. I have 25 years in martial arts experience and hold the rank of 3rd degree black belt in Shotokai Karate.
My journey to building Zenshin Dojo Calgary has been a long one, shaped by many years of mental and physical growth, which began with finding my family within the Zenshin Dojo Karate Club in the UK. Little did I know of the impact Shotokai Karate would have on my life. At 17 went to Karate simply because I wanted to learn to defend myself on the edgy streets of Bristol, UK. Over time I discovered Shotokai Karate was so much more than kicking and punching. The holistic side of the art appealed to me the most as it enabled me to be more mindful, confident and connected to myself and others.
I have lived in Calgary, Canada for the past 10 years and in this time I have become a mother to two girls Mila and Mattea. Becoming a mum made me realize how much I want girls to grow up feeling empowered and able to succeed in our ever changing world. I have also experienced the life of a busy Mum and how this impacts your time to work on your own health and happiness. It's important to me that the young girls see happier women in their lives and the ripple effect this causes.
I want people to know it is always the right time to start your own martial arts journey and I am honoured to be helping people along their way.
Testimonials
Zoe first entered my dojo 26 years ago. Over those years I have watched her grow to become a dedicated, accomplished martial artist. Her physical skills are matched only by her grasp of complex karate concepts, impressive understanding of human interaction and humility - arguably the most important quality any martial artist can possess. We have travelled the world together from Europe and Canada to Japan. She has worked with and learnt from many who are celebrated masters of their art. She is truly a creature of the world and wise beyond her years. Her desire to share her knowledge and experience should be viewed through a holistic lens. For her, empowerment of individuals, and the development of self confidence and raising of self esteem in her students, is of overriding importance. Put simply, UK's loss in Canada's gain! I wish her every success as she embarks on the next stage of her karate journey.
Rob Jones, Zenshin Dojo UK, Head Instructor
Tonya Laing, Calgary
"My daughters and I have been attending Zoe's parent and child classes. Every class is fun, a great work out and shuts my brain off for a bit. I always leave feeling 100% better every single time"
Britt Hanson, Calgary
"fun and engaging classes! Zoe makes her dojo affordable and accessible. We love this community within our community"
Deb Goulding, UK
"Zoe is a gem!
You will leave class feeling calmer, more centered and more mindful.
Zoe's funny and lighthearted approach to teaching karate is so refreshing"