Competitive Edge Karate Henrico’s Most Experienced Martial Arts School — Real Training, Real Results, Since 1997

My son has been coming here for 10 years. Along with the amazing karate skills, combat training, self defense and kickboxing he has learned kindness and compassion. Kyoshi Dabney exudes a gentle but firm leadership style and pushes the kids to reach their full potential. He has been an amazing presence in John’s life. I am so grateful for this place. Can’t recommend enough.

Competitive Edge Karate is a world class martial arts academy that gears to students of all ages and skill levels. When looking for my first martial arts gym I was very hesitant but as soon as I step foot in Competitive Edge Karate I was greeted by the friendly staff and welcomed into their class.

If you are looking to learn Self Defense, boost confidence, get in shape and make new friends then Competitive Edge Karate is the right place for you!

Charlotte has been with Kyoshi for 3 years now & the advancement in her skills is amazing. She was just awarded her 2nd degree black belt & we couldn't be happier with how it was all handled. Lessons are well & safely run either virtually or in class with every precaution taken to ensure the kids safety. Charlotte has just stated her 3rd degree training & we couldn't be happier with how it's going. I would definitely recommend Competitive Edge for anyone wanting to start their journey or to advance their studies.

After 8 years in Taekwondo that caters to younger kids, my teenager wanted a challenge on a different path. We switched to Competitive Edge last year and my son has grown tremendously under Kyoshi's instruction. Kyoshi takes a personal interest in challenging his students based on their individual paths in life. He has a wealth of knowledge and experience in martial arts and self defense, and embraces both the physical and mental health of his students.

I heard about CEK from one of my friend whose son earned a black belt degree from here few years back. She had all positive things to say about the CEK and Master Kyoshi so I decided to enroll my almost 7 year old son here. My son was going to a different martial arts place before COVID but didn’t show much interest and due to a 1 year contract obligation, I couldn’t pull him out. It’s been couple of weeks since he joined CEK and loves it so far. Master Kyoshi is very professional, patient and passionate about teaching karate. He knows how to keep kids engaged and foster respect . Looking forward to seeing my son get his black belt degree from here.

Kyoshi is an awesome teacher and an instructor. His class has the right balance of fun for the kids but also the discipline that’s required for karate. He is also very accommodating when you have changes and the best part was he was among the very first folks who adapted virtual learning and that’s really effective. Don’t know how he manages to keep the kids engaged in an virtual environment and hats off to him for making that possible.

Best karate studio! Kyoshi is a master at his craft and passionate in all he does. My teenage daughter is almost a 3rd degree black belt with his guidance and I couldn't be happier. I highly recommend Competitive Edge Karate to anyone who has a child interested in karate or who is an adult looking to learn and get fit. Both find themselves stronger and more confident with CEK instruction.

Kyoshi is the best instructor and mentor in the RVA area. There’s no comparison. He’s effective and thorough. My little girl looks forward to the discipline and structure he provides in each class (which says a lot for a 7yr old). You can see how much the kids excel and strive to reach their next goal. Amazing!

Absolutely the best! Kyoshi Dabney is a wonderful teacher of martial arts skills. He keeps it fun while still teaching technique and skill. Wouldn't trust my grandson with anyone else! He taught my daughter back in probably 1988, her daughter in 2004-05. This grandson has been with him since November 2022.