PROVIDING HIGH-QUALITY MARTIAL ARTS
Our martial arts school welcomes students from Henrico and surrounding communities. Click on any pinned location to get instant directions via Google Maps, making it easy to see your travel time to our school. Train with us and experience top-quality martial arts instruction!
Right in the middle of Henrico, there’s something pretty special happening at Competitive Edge Karate. It’s not just about learning to throw a punch or mastering a kick; it’s about building a tight-knit community where everyone, kids and adults alike, can find their place, grow their confidence, and step up as leaders who’ve got more than just muscle.
See, martial arts is way more than what you see in movies. It’s about getting on a journey that teaches you the tough stuff — discipline, respect, and the kind of perseverance that sticks with you. Henrico, with all its energy and diversity, is the perfect backdrop for what we’re doing at Competitive Edge Karate. We’re not just here to teach; we’re here to make a difference, helping our members become not only confident in themselves but also kind, smart, and ready to make good choices.
For the kiddos walking into our dojo, it’s about giving them a boost in more ways than one. With all the stuff they face these days — think bullying or just the pressure to fit in — martial arts gives them a solid base of self-esteem and a big dose of respect for themselves and others. Our classes are all about showing them how sticking with something, even when it gets tough, can make them not just better at martial arts but better at life. They learn to tackle challenges with a smile and stand tall, knowing they can handle whatever comes their way.
And for the adults? Henrico can be a whirlwind, and Competitive Edge Karate is that spot where they can catch their breath, connect with others, and work on being their best selves. It’s more than just breaking a sweat; it’s about finding a community where everyone’s on the same quest for self-improvement. Whether it’s about ditching stress, getting fit, or finding a deeper sense of purpose, our dojo offers a path that’s about challenging your body, sharpening your mind, and feeding your soul. It’s where adults get to lead by example, showing up strong not just at the gym but in every part of their lives.
Here at Competitive Edge Karate, we’re all about the power of martial arts to change lives. We keep things real, focusing on the whole you — body, mind, and spirit. Diving into martial arts with us means facing life head-on with a brave heart and an open mind. We’re proud to be the go-to spot in Henrico where people come to grow, leaders are made, and the community gets a little bit stronger every day.
So, if you’re in Henrico and looking for something more than just a workout, come check us out at Competitive Edge Karate. Be part of our journey to not just learn martial arts but to be part of something bigger — a journey to being your most awesome self.
MEMBER REVIEWS OF Competitive Edge Karate
See what our members are saying! Browse through the reviews to get a glimpse of the Competitive Edge Karate experience straight from our community.
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.
My son’s confidence has significantly increased since attending CEK. Kyoshi is amazing with the kids. Highly recommend!
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!
Great place to learn karate. Kyoshi Dabney is 10/10 – great with kids (and their parents).
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.
This is wonderful place where you kids can learn values kyoshi is the best teacher really 100% recommended
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.
Positive and knowledgeable Teacher and Kids love his approach! Highly recommend!
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.
An amazing place for young people to learn discipline and build self confidence.
Kiyoshi is a fabulous teacher and mentor.
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 place Ever keeps kids focused discipline and defense the right way.
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.
CEK is a great place to provide life lessons for your kids. Karate is not the only thing taught there . . . respect, discipline, mindfulness, and manners are emphasized. Our son got his black belt at CEK and I can truly say Roger Dabney had a huge influence on our both our kids who have developed into responsible adults. I would highly recommend Competitive Edge Karate for children or adults looking to improve their well being both physically and mentally!
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!
Awesome place! We love the discipline and values that CEK instills into our kids. Their program and plan for progression keeps the kids engaged and enthusiastic to attend and it builds a great sense of confidence in the kids. Kyoshi, Jesse and Donovan are GREAT with the kids. We couldn’t be more impressed.
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.
