In addition to self-defense, students of our martial arts program learn skills that benefit them in other areas of their lives.
"It is a pleasure being a part of the Holt Shido-kan Dojo, and I recommend it for anyone who wants to be a part of a place where integrity and respect for all are the main ingredients. Sensei Mark is an excellent instructor, and I believe him to be very gifted in teaching all ages." – Barbara
Read more testimonials after the FAQs.
Frequently Asked Questions: Answered by Adult Program Members
Dawn Lambert
Do I need to be in shape before I start classes?
"I was exercising here and there so my physical condition wasn't the greatest. Since starting karate, it has improved tremendously. With karate I get a cardio workout, strength training, and some abdominal workout. My balance is better as well as my flexibility. I enjoy karate so much I even practice at home. So not only am I at class twice a week, I am also working out at home to improve my skills. Before I started classes I wasn't doing much physical activity, and I was able to keep up in class without any problems." – Dawn Lambert
"Okinawan karate can be learned, practiced and studied by almost anyone, so if you're worried about your current physical shape, don't—karate can help you improve it."
– Bob Robinson, Vermontville
What if I have physical limitations?
"Not a problem. If you watch a typical karate class, you will usually see various types of students. They range from young to not so young, tall to short, thin to not so thin. With this kind of diverse group training, we always have people with limitations. Some have knee or back issues or other problems. Just be sure to let the instructor or whoever you are training with know so we can work around it. You will never be forced to do something you are not capable of or that causes you pain." – Phil Wolfe
Will this be hard on my body? Is this violent?
"Control, technique, and cooperation are highly stressed and are the goal of every student. Friendship and cooperation are essential, and Sensei Mark not only lectures students on these concepts, he leads by example."
"Contact is not done for sake of violence—Sensei Mark wants us to be prepared if we ever need to use our karate to defend ourselves. Therefore, we practice 'giving' and 'receiving' techniques in class, where we are in a safe, controlled environment, among friends.'"
– Heather Lockhart
Is karate just for self-defense?
"No. It is a great exercise and stress reliever. It also has helped me to focus, build self confidence, and learn patience." – Dawn Lambert
"After five years of practicing Original Okinawan Karate in Holt, I can't imagine what my life would be without it. Getting my 1st Dan black belt during NTS in July of 2011 was one of the greatest achievements in my life and an absolutely awesome experience. I'm a lifetime student for sure.
"There are many reasons why I enjoy classes at Original Okinawan Karate in Holt. It is fantastic physical fitness for adult students, no matter what age. Holt has adult students of all ages. I have even worked out with beginners and seniors in their 70s and 80s. I hope that I am still working hard on my karate when I'm 100! I am now 54, and continue to increase my level of flexibility, agility, and strength because of martial arts.
"And Okinawan karate can be learned, practiced and studied by almost anyone, so if you're worried about your current physical shape, don't; karate can help you improve it. Not to mention the benefits of mental focus, discipline, stress management, self-control and the mastery of mind, body and soul. It's a great feeling.
"The instruction provided by Sensei Mark McCloud is high quality all the way. Watching fellow students successfully climb through the ranks to higher belts—and the many tournament medals taken home by the kids in the dojo—proves it. The success of students at Original Okinawan Karate of Holt is a living testament to the quality program provided by Sensei McCloud.
"The absolute best thing about the Holt dojo is our dojo family. The friendly family atmosphere is a pleasure to be a part of, and I wouldn't trade it for anything. The friendships and fun memories are unforgettable." – Bob Robinson
"Karate is energizing and uplifting. It helps me clear my mind, let go of stress and relax. I go at my own pace in a worry-free, comfortable, friendly, and supportive atmosphere. I get in an awesome workout every class! My fellow classmates make me feel welcome and are very nice people. Sensei Mark is very patient and an excellent teacher.
"I am having a great time learning, and I enjoy being around everyone at the dojo. I couldn't have met a nicer group of people!" –Melanie
"I came to the Original Okinawan Karate of Holt Dojo as one of its first students, having trained in martial arts for more than 20 years in three different styles and having taught for nine of those years. In fact, at the time I met Sensei Mark McCloud, I was looking for a place to begin teaching again. After less than an hour's conversation with him, I asked to train with him as a white belt. This was in September of 2003, and I haven't looked back.
"Over these last eight years I have come to know more about martial arts, and myself as a martial artist, than I ever thought possible. I have learned so much that I am only now getting a clearer glimpse of how much there is yet to learn. This is the best way I can think of to describe the depth of knowledge that Sensei McCloud and the Shidokan organization have to offer. You see, Mr. McCloud is a direct student of one of the finest teachers Okinawa has produced, Sensei Seikichi Iha. Through 30 years of dedicated training with Iha, Sensei, Mr. McCloud has become one his finest students and, in turn, one of the most talented teachers I have ever known. Neither one of these extraordinary men would describe their accomplishments in this manner. This is how they are described by their students and colleagues.
"Sensei Mark (as he prefers to be called by his students) has a patience with and expectation for each student that is always spot on. This is certainly true for the adult but especially true for the children. He has developed one of the most comprehensive children's programs available. Through various facets of the youth program he teaches not only Shorin Ryu karate technique and discipline, but also self-confidence, sportsmanship, the development of self-esteem, humility, cooperation, respect, and friendship that the students take from the dojo into all aspects of their lives.
"When you visit this dojo, you will find pictures on the wall showing the rich history of Okinawan Karate. You will also find certificates and plaques attesting to Sensei Mark's accomplishments within and contributions to Shidokan Shorin Ryu Karate Do, and you will find certificates attesting to the progress made by his students. Most importantly, you will see each student leaving class tired, sweaty, and smiling. – Scott A. Kramer Sensei, Charlotte Shido-kann
"Being a Karate student at the Holt Dojo is like a dream come true. Both my daughter and I started in 2009. I have witnessed her progression and learning, and today she is an avid Karate student who continues to develop her leadership abilities through the Junior Instructor Program.
"Learning Okinawan Karate from Sensei Mark McCloud is truly a privilege. Sensei Mark honors the tradition transmitted to him by Sensei Seikichi Iha, a true master of the martial arts of Okinawa. Sensei Mark's technique is impressive and above all, he embodies the martial spirit that has been conferred to him.
"Learning Karate at 50 may seem like a huge challenge to many. What I have found as a student is that one does not need to be in shape to start Karate practice. At the Holt Dojo there is no rush and learning occurs in a way that any student can easily assimilate.
"Okinawan Karate is characterized by normal stances and relaxed postures and breathing. It is easy to learn and most importantly, beginning with the first day one gets personalized attention from Sensei Mark. What I appreciate the most is the welcoming environment of the Holt Dojo. Everyone is very friendly and helpful.
"Karate's profound knowledge has been preserved for hundreds of years and has been handed down in its purest form to Sensei Iha and subsequently to Sensei Mark. When I met Sensei Mark for the first time more than 15 years ago, I asked him what style of Karate he practiced. His response was: 'My friend, I practice Karate for Life…'
"I can assure you that Sensei Mark has instilled in me that Karate Is For Life. Arigato Gozaimasu!"
– Oscar Rodriguez-Franco
