Founded in 1959 by Carl “Dutchie” Schell and fellow judo pioneers, Shimpokai has been carrying the tradition of martial arts in Saint John for generations.
The founding of Shimpokai in 1959 is particularly significant—it is recognized as the oldest judo club in Atlantic Canada, with a proud history built on dedication, discipline, respect, and community.
Today, that tradition continues and has grown.
Shimpokai now brings together three martial arts under one roof:
🥋 Judo — Our foundation and our heritage since 1959.
🥋 Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) — Continuing the tradition of grappling and ground fighting.
🥋 Karate — Building discipline, confidence, technique, and character.
From our beginnings in 1959 to today, Shimpokai remains committed to providing a place where people of all ages and experience levels can learn, train, compete, and become part of a community.
Shimpokai — Honouring the past. Building the future.
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We require a short brief write up
something like the roles each of maintain at Shimpokai
We require write up pertaining to the roles yoeach of you maintain at Shjimpokai BJJ
We require write up pertaining top the role at Shimpokai Karate
Judo is a Japanese martial art and Olympic sport founded by Jigoro Kano in 1882.
Originating in Japan, Judo evolved from traditional Jujutsu into a discipline focused on throws, holds, control, balance, and technique rather than brute strength.
More than a martial art, Judo develops discipline, confidence, respect, fitness, and resilience—on the mat and in everyday life.
Judo began in Japan. Its lessons last a lifetime.
Originating in Japan, Judo Kata preserves the technical and traditional foundations of Kodokan Judo. Through carefully structured movements, practitioners develop timing, balance, control, and a deeper understanding of judo.
Discover the Art Behind the Sport.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a grappling martial art focused on technique, leverage, control, and submissions rather than relying on strength or size.
BJJ developed in Brazil in the early 20th century, evolving from Japanese Judo and traditional Japanese Jujutsu. The Gracie family played a major role in developing and popularizing the Brazilian style, emphasizing ground fighting and techniques that allow a smaller person to effectively control a larger opponent.
Whether you're completely new to martial arts or an experienced grappler, BJJ offers a challenging and rewarding way to train, learn, and become part of a community.
Karate is a traditional martial art focused on striking, blocking, movement, discipline, and self-defense. Its modern development took place in Okinawa, Japan, evolving from local Okinawan fighting traditions influenced by Chinese martial arts.
Train your body. Sharpen your mind. Build your character.