U.S. Budokai provides a friendly, supportive, nurturing environment to train in. It is a real pleasure to work with classmates and staff who share the same values, respect and overall commitment to themselves and the martial arts. I couldn't imagine my life without the dojo.

We looked at MANY different potential martial arts programs for our child. From the first meeting with Renshi Sue it was clear this place was different. You don't want the programs SO easy that they don't learn the actual art or develop the discipline, not SO hard they lose interest. This program hits the perfect balance. Hanshi Jarem Is TOUGH on them yet also tender and funny. Knows every kid. They seek his praise and follow his guidance. This has been terrific for our son, who is a sensory seeker, and while he's only been here since very end of April, I see improvement like I've never seen in anything else.   Every other dojo I've seen gives rank so they can keep parents $$$; not so here. Child's development first, period. There was this one time where it was was probably the first time this child ever heard no, and while your heart breaks a little with their tears (it was handled with dignity in private, but you could tell on his face later), you also know that it's probably one of the best things to happen to him. False self esteem (without the work) is actually highly damaging to kids, leading to depression and anxiety as young adults. Letting kids take some lumps is hard. Lots of dojos talk about character, but don't actually follow through. Here, they do. VERY compassionately, but firm. Guess who does the work now and has a new spring in his step? It's great to see.

My Budokai story stretches across the decades. I joined the Karate family when I was eleven years old. I was being bullied in school and my Dad suggested I look into the Martial Arts as a way to defend myself. I made friends, gained confidence in myself and in my abilities. (Then) Sensei Jarem became a kind of a life coach and mentor. I looked up to him as a young man would to someone who pushed me to my limits; and beyond! After I earned the second of two Black Belts I went off to college and then to start a career.
Fast forward thirty years and my wife and I were looking for something for our four year old son to participate in. Regular sports weren’t his thing so we decided to try Karate since I loved it so much as a child. It was not even a question as to where we would bring him; Budokai Karate and, now, Hanshi Jarem! Since my son joined my daughter has also joined. I also went back four years ago and earned my third Black Belt in 2019.
As a parent, I get even more from Budokai than I did when I was a child. I see how much each of my children has grown, gained confidence, and become great young members of society. As an adult who is in Karate, I have a deeper understanding of what it means to be a “student” of the Martial Arts. I have learned this through the teachings of Hanshi Jarem through his actions, the way in which he encourages his students and works with us to better our mind, body and spirit. I owe a debt of gratitude to this man, Renshi, Sensei Michael and all the other Black Belts who have come before me.

If I was asked to grade US Budokai Karate of Clifton Park on a scale of 1 to 10, it easily grades a 10. My children participate in the junior and teen levels, one of whom is a special needs child. I cannot adequately express my appreciation to Kyoshi, Shihan Sue and all those involved in the teaching of this great sport. Tough love, humor and tremendous attention to assure their success. All this results in kids that gain skills at their different levels; and, skills that improve their focus, social skills and discipline. A great dojo and great people.

Great for senior citizens. Improves strength, balance and flexibility. Plus you can learn to not be a victim just because you are old.

As parents, we have more confidence that our children are building their skills to better prepare them for life’s challenges. Their growth and personal development have been augmented by the many terrific role models and principles and ideals that they have been exposed to over the years at U.S. Budokai Karate. They have definitely achieved their goals along the way and look forward to more opportunities to continue growing in their knowledge of karate and the respect and value that it stands for.

I stared Karate at Budokai when I was four years old as a Tiny Tiger. It took me seven years to earn my Black Belt. I’ve made a lot of friends through Karate. Other members of my family take Karate and I like talking to them about the fun stuff we do in class and different things we have learned. I love all of the instructors and how they motivate me to be my best, focus and have self control!

I am so glad we found U.S Budokai Karate of Clifton Park. I can not think of more wonderful role models for my children then Kyoshi Susan Warzek, and Sensei Michael Favreau. The passion they have for karate, and the love they have for their students is apparent. Each child they work with is learning so much more than karate - they are learning about respect, dedication, love of self, and love of others. Kyoshi, and Sensei Michael have put their heart and soul into creating a community of children/teenagers that are dedicated sportsman, and upstanding citizens I am profoundly grateful to them, and would recommend U.S Budokai Karate of Clifton Park to anyone looking to instill in their child the values they need to further themselves both physically, and mentally. Bravo, and job well done Kyoshi, and Sensei Michael.

I remember walking into the dojo on my first day of class when I was 5 years old. Never would I have thought that something would impact my life so much. As a 14 year old black belt who is testing for their second degree in a couple of weeks, I honestly don’t know where I would be without being a part of US Budokai. I am going to continue to train at US Budokai for as long as I possibly can. I can’t imagine my life without it, and I don’t want to ever have to live without karate. Karate is not just a sport, but it is a way of life. US Budokai will truly change your life for the better. Not only does it have incredible physical benefits, but it also builds your character. The incredible instructors here will make sure that you have the best experience possible. Their knowledge, talent, and ability to connect with their students truly amazes me. US Budokai truly is overall just an incredible atmosphere, where you can feel comfortable. Honestly, it feels like a family to me, everyone is just always so supportive. If you are having mixed thoughts about joining US Budokai, trust me, you will not regret it.

US Budokai Karate of Clifton Park is amazing! Every instructor is kind, compassionate, considerate, understanding,
helpful and supportive in every way.
My son spent 5+ years at another martial arts school and was looking for a new challenge.
This school was exactly what he needed and helped to bring his spark back! He is so excited to go to each and every class and throughly enjoys everything about US Budokai Karate.

At 70 may not be the best time to start karate but I did it to improve my flexibility and balance. I found that not only does it do that but I liked it. I am amazed at how much I have learned and humbled by how much there is to learn. A great program even for seniors

l really enjoy these classes and get fulfillment from the program