Sharif Robles's Karate Lessons

We feel so fortunate to have found Sensei Sharif and Sensei Tiffany Robless dojo. Our son has autism and struggles with motor coordination and maintaining focus, often not able to follow instructions without many reminders. We worried that most dojos would not tolerate his behaviors given the martial arts focus on discipline and control, thus creating a negative learning experience and affecting his self-esteem.

The Robless have created unique dojo, with classes that teach amazingly diverse students all at the same time - from adults with black belts to six-year olds just starting out. The atmosphere is nurturing, accepting and, if understandably a little chaotic at times, fosters a genuine sense of community, a village of karate students supporting everyone. The middle school and high school students readily step in to help the younger students and the adults are visible role models for hard work, respect and kindness. It is no wonder that families have stayed with the Robles for years, with siblings and parents all participating.

The Robles have also studied childhood development and creatively incorporate obstacle courses, running/tag games and free time for the children to play together, interspersed between martial arts lessons. This summer, Sensei Sharif put together an obstacle course for my son. He took the time to video record it to show me how my son was able to get through it without prompts.

Our son has been able to improve his focus and attention, practice social skills, better understand how to follow along with others, engage in alternating gross motor activities and experience being included in larger community. Because of the Robles and their holistic, accepting approach to teaching martial arts, our son enjoys and wants to go to karate class. We can offer no better testimonial.

He helped me move quicker.

Ive been training with Sensei Robles since August 2008. With over 25 years as a black belt, Sensei Robles combines a thorough knowledge of karate, with a warm personal teaching style, blending a warrior spirit with compassion and humor. The learning never stops, and I continue to look forward to my training.

Sensei Sharif Robles was my first karate teacher in the beginning of my martial arts journey. His attention to detail and unwavering commitment to his students is beyond expectations of what I thought was possible. But it wasnt through just a set of organized Techniques and movements that he taught me that was most valuable, it was his guidance and philosophy on life that I gained the most introspect to my own life and path in both my martial arts journey and my personal life experiences. Thank you Sensei iam forever grateful