Karate for All
Join our karate classes designed for Kids, Youth, Teens, and Adults!
Each program is tailored to meet the needs of every age group, ensuring a fun and engaging experience.
Locations
Rochester - Bethel Lutheran Church (Thursdays)
Byron - Community Ed Center (Tuesdays)
Little Dragons
Our Little Dragons class for ages 5-7 is a fun, energetic environment where kids learn karate basics while enhancing their reflexes and coordination through engaging activities.
Youth Development
The Youth Class for ages 8-12 emphasizes martial skills and character development. Students learn the art of karate while building confidence and respect for themselves and others.
Teen/Adult Training
Our Teen and Adult classes for ages 13 and up focus on technical skills and self-defense techniques. Participants gain strength, discipline, and confidence in a supportive atmosphere.
How Do I Sign Up?
More Than Martial Arts
1. Confidence
Learn to face challenges with greater confidence.
2. Discipline
Develop the ability to listen, focus, and follow through.
3. Self-Control
Learn to control your actions, emotions, and reactions.
4. Self-Defense
Develop practical skills while learning when and how to use them responsibly.
5. Perseverance
Learn to keep working when something is difficult.
6. Character
Our belt system develops character alongside martial arts ability.
ABOUT
AMERICAN STATES KARATE
At American States Karate, we believe in promoting self-defense, physical health, and mental growth through the practice of martial arts. Our experienced instructors are dedicated to helping students develop discipline, focus, and confidence in a safe and supportive environment.
Our classes are currently held at Bethel Lutheran Church in Rochester, and at the Byron Community Education Center (through Community Ed).
A.S.K. HISTORY
American States Karate (A.S.K.) was founded around 1988 when three martial artists — Jim Backus, Gary Jacobson, and Joe Nikolas — came together with backgrounds in Taekwondo and Shotokan Karate to create a style and school uniquely their own. At the time, all three instructed through Midwest Martial Arts schools located throughout Southern Minnesota, including Rochester, Austin, and Winona.
From the beginning, A.S.K. was designed to blend traditional martial arts with practical application, discipline, and character development. The acronym “A.S.K.” later became associated with the phrase: “Have problems with bullies? Just ASK.” Much of the original curriculum still taught today was developed by Mr. Joe Nikolas. While A.S.K. utilizes ITF Taekwondo patterns throughout its belt system, the techniques and training methods have evolved over the years into a distinctly American Karate style — blending influences from multiple martial arts into a system focused on self-defense, structure, and personal growth.
I will strengthen my body and mind with discipline, and avoid
what would harm my growth or character.
I will act with self-control and humility, choosing integrity
and encouraging others to do the same.
I will use what I learn with wisdom and courage, constructively and defensively, and never out of anger, pride, or selfish gain.
Courtesy
Integrity
Perseverance
Self-Control
Indomitible-Spirit
5 TENETS & STUDENT CREED
