Karate programs for everyone, from 3 years old to adult. All fitness levels are welcome! Martial arts classes are more than exercise. They empower us to protect ourselves, build inner and outer strength and give us confidence, clarity and discipline. Because of their focus on building strong bodies and minds, martial arts are an effective way to manage stress, boost energy, lose weight, achieve mental focus and enhance personal safety.
The space is absolutely stunning with a professional look, clean facilities, and two very large dojos in the back. I couldn't be any more impressed! Great place to train and learn, kind and wise instructors and an awesome philosophy. If you choose to train here, you will get fantastic exercise, be able to defend yourself and protect others, and learn about the many arts of life, success, and happiness.
The space is absolutely stunning with a professional look, clean facilities, and two very large dojos in the back. I couldn't be any more impressed! Great place to train and learn, kind and wise instructors and an awesome philosophy. If you choose to train here, you will get fantastic exercise, be able to defend yourself and protect others, and learn about the many arts of life, success, and happiness.
Services
Opened in 1999 by head instructor Adette Rice, Driftwood Martial Arts bears the distinction of being one of the first full time, professional, Canadian martial arts studio to be opened by and run solely by a female instructor.
Kyoshi Rice has developed and implemented several highly successful programs into the curriculum and community including our KidSafe Youth Karate program, Freedom From Fear Women's Self Protection and her own WeeKick KinderKarate program which began in 2008.We strive to offer all of our students a safe learning environment where they can become strong both physically and mentally.
Kyoshi Rice has developed and implemented several highly successful programs into the curriculum and community including our KidSafe Youth Karate program, Freedom From Fear Women's Self Protection and her own WeeKick KinderKarate program which began in 2008.We strive to offer all of our students a safe learning environment where they can become strong both physically and mentally.
Driftwood's first class facilities come with a first class team. From courteous and knowledgable front desk staff to motivational instructors, we're here to bring the best martial arts experience to you and your family. We strive to offer all of our students a safe learning environment where they can become strong both physically and mentally.
We've got two spacious matted training floors with over 3100 sq.ft. of matted training space, the largest room with traditional tatami matting. Wave bags, hand targets, kicking shields, kettle bells and more. All of the gear you or your child will need to round out the martial arts training. The Driftwood Pro Shop is where you'll find the accessories you'll need to compliment your training.
Our children's curriculum is designed to accommodate ages three-and-a-half and up. This allows children to successfully learn and perform their moves so that they will feel good about themselves. Our curriculum is challenging but never too difficult. All of our classes are highly supervised by our instructors and assistants.
Whether you're a parent looking to participate in a class with your toddler, an adult looking to learn self-defense while getting in shape and enjoying some "you" time or trying to find that perfect activity to give your child important life skills & fitness. We encourage you to take a few minutes and learn about what our programs have to offer.
Reviews (15)
Rachel Fink
Jul 24, 2021
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We starting coming here 10 years ago when our oldest was 3.5 years old. Since then 3 more members of our family have joined the Driftwood family. All of the instructors are so passionate about teaching and mentoring the students. Kyoshi Rice and her staff have gone above and beyond to ensure that all students are safe in their return to the dojo. I… sent my kids back to her classes before I let them go to school in person, as I felt she was doing more for our kids than the school system was. for anyone thinking about joining Driftwood, I highly recommend that you check it out for yourself
Danielle Straus
Jul 24, 2021
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Driftwood has been great, they are so welcoming and inclusive to all members. The are a variety of open classes which members are able to attend. I have been most impressed with their abilities at modifying classes with respect to the covid protocols, within a week of the first lockdown online classes were organized and adjusted for all home… environments. They have been able to adjust for each level including indoor and outdoor classes. Looking forward to physical contact in the future.
My daughter, outside of her own opinion, was encouraged by myself to attend a tournament early in her
My daughter, outside of her own opinion, was encouraged by myself to attend a tournament early in her
Priscilla D.
Jul 24, 2021
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Storm Milani
Jul 24, 2021
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Grand River Karate
Jul 24, 2021
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I'm part of a group of instructors that run a dojo in Waterloo. I've know Sensei Adette Rice for several years. Driftwood Martial Arts is, hands down, one the best martial art clubs in Canada. There are many aspects in running a club, good programs, well trained instructors and behind the season operations. They get a 5 star in all areas. The big one is looking after the well-being of all of their students. A great place for a family to train and bond.
Amanda Serres
Jul 14, 2021
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I was a student at this dojo 10+ years ago and I had so much fun attending karate classes as a child. However, part of the program required, at least when I was attending, 4 classes a week - 2 "regular" classes, and then one kata class and one sparring class. I have some great memories from this place - weekend sleepovers called "megatrainings", awesome guided exercise, cool instructors. But I hated sparring so so so much. It was painful, deeply unpleasant to me, and ended up being a part of my week I dreaded so much that I would cry before every single class (and often during when one of the other
Rachel Fink
Jul 09, 2021
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Paul Woodard
Dec 11, 2019
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Isabel Hernandez Domenech
Oct 20, 2019
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Melissa Noxell
Mar 29, 2019
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Thylanes Silverwind
Jan 06, 2019
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Christine Bergsma
Nov 04, 2018
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Maggie Hilton
Jun 20, 2018
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My son is his his second term of Weekick and he loves it! The staff and instructors are so amazing, friendly and helpful. I'm so glad we put my little guy in their Karate program. I've seen him grow so much physically and intellectually. He's learned so much about respect and keeping himself safe. Best decision ever.
Elena Mynayeva
Oct 07, 2017
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Jacquie Kimmel
Aug 01, 2017
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Such a wonderful karate school to train at! I have been training here for 12 years and wouldn't change it for the world! I have gained so much knowledge and had the oppertunities to train with many wonderful people from near and far. Driftwood martial arts is not only a serious place of practice and performance with great etiquette, but also a karate school with a very fun atomosphere, great instructors and students!
