
The
JIKC Dojo Precepts
An Ancient Swords Master once said: “A Swordsman’s skill is a reflection of his inner character. His inner self is measured by the strength and skill of his sword. He who desires to master his sword must first learn to master himself.”
Japan Internation Karate Center has adopted this ancient wisdom and reinforcement, “Not to conquer others, but to conquer the weaknesses in onself.”
A person’s outward technique is a reflection of his inner character. If your mind is sloppy, then your technique will become sloppy. Likewise, if your character becomes neat, then precise techniques follow. This means that character influences technique.

The body and mind are inter-related. The mind controls the body much as the body controls the mind. This is known in Martial Art as “SHING-GI-ITTAI.” Understanding and practicing the JIKC Dojo Precepts to build strong mental and moral character will influence the body to develop strong techniques.
An important part of this learning is that rather than concerns you with winning or losing to others, concentrate on overcoming yourself. True winning come from overcoming your own weaknesses such as laziness, impatience, negativity, pride, arrogance, etc. Overcoming these weaknesses makes you a winner of life itself. This is the essence of the JIKC Dojo Precept, and this is what JIKC Karate is about.
Instructors
Our instructors believe wholeheartedly in the JIKC program, its instructional method, and it’s philosophy. They believe in it because they’ve experienced it firsthand. They understand how training in karate can make people stronger in mind, body, and spirit.
Teaching Excellence at Japan International Karate Center instructors are known not only for their martial arts skill, but also for their ability to effectively communicate their knowledge and understanding to students of all ages. They are continuously upgrading their skills because of their commitment to being on the cutting edge of martial arts training. It is no surprise that Japan International Karate Center instructors are ranked among the finest in the world.
In addition to years of training under the JIKC program, all instructors meet other stringent requirements:
I pledge myself to the challenges that a sensei must meet and master.
I will seek to create within me an atmosphere of excellence that both instructs and inspires.
Knowing that success in teaching is not accomplished alone, I will also look to others for their help.
By my determination I will demonstrate my faith in the power of positive action.
I will cultivate humbleness and openness, the qualities that make learning possible, for only as I continue to learn will I be able to teach.
And with unity in the dojo as my goal. I will strive to attain the oneness of my students and myself in body, mind, and spirit.
I pledge myself to be worthy of the honor of senpai by setting a proper example for my fellow students to follow.
Recognizing the value of working together, I will volunteer my time and skills to assist in helping others.
Futher, I will strive each day to strengthen my character, nourish my spirit, and extend my capabilities.
Respecting the purpose and principles of JIKC Karate, I resolve to uphold my new responsibilities with humbleness and pride.
Sensei's

Sensei Roy Woodard
7th. Degree Black Belt
46+ years karate experience

Sensei Martha Stephens
6th Degree Black Belt
32+ years experience

Sensei Andrew Gross
5th Degree Black Belt
40+ years Karate Experience

Sensei Chuck McBrayer
4th Degree Black Belt
21+ years Karate Experience

Sensei Beth Bennett
4th Degree Black Belt
27+ years Karate Experience

Sensei Kim Pilkington
3rd Degree Black Belt
41+ years Karate Experience

Sensei Sheryl Smith
1st Degree Black Belt
5+ years Karate Experience

Sensei Jeff Graves
1st Degree Black Belt
5+ years Karate Experience

Sensei Chris Wichmann
3rd Degree Black Belt
19+ years Karate experience

Sensei Kristen Oliphant
2nd Degree Black Belt
7+ years Karate experience
Dojos
Arthur Elementary School Dojo
625 14th. Avenue NW.
Birmingham, AL 35215
Gardendale Elementary School Dojo
HighLandsSchool Dojo
Smith Middle School Dojo
Classes: Tue/Thu - 6:00 P.M.
and . . . . Saturday - 9:00 A.M.
Competition Class: Saturday - 8:00 A.M.
Snow Rogers Elementary School Dojo
Sun Valley Elementary School Dojo
Tuscaloosa YMCA - Central Branch
Classes: Mon/Wed - 6:00 P.M.
and Tue/Thu - 7:00 P.M.
Friday - 6:00 P.M.
Wright Elementary School Dojo
Unversity of Alabama
Opelika Recreation Center
The King Co-op Dojo
Villa Maria Dojo
Senior Community-Qigong Classes
Peachtree Crossing Dojo
The Studio Dojo
Centreville
Pinson Elementary Dojo
Oliver Elementary Dojo
Creative Montessori Dojo
Huffman Academy Dojo