Buy an Upstate Karate
Gift & Greeting Card

Business Description

Located in Simpsonville, South Carolina, Upstate Karate is a family owned business that has been open for over 32 years. Ray Thompson, the founder and head instructor, started his martial arts training in 1974 at the age of 18 and holds multiple black belts in various styles, including Kempo karate, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and kickboxing. He has also earned Nidan (second degree) in Kyudo (Japanese archery).

Thompson's competitive career spans many years and many championships, including winning the only "Toughest Man in South Carolina" in 1980. He has fought full contact kickboxing and was a member of the U.S. Kickboxing team that competed in France in 1988, where he was known by the French public as "The Master of Disaster."

Upstate Karate specializes in martial arts training, including Kempo karate, Mixed Martial Arts, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and strength and conditioning. The instructors are highly skilled and dedicated to helping students reach their maximum potential in all areas of their lives.

The ambience at Upstate Karate is focused and intense, with a competitive spirit and a commitment to excellence. The students are serious about their training and work hard to improve their skills. However, the instructors are also approachable and friendly, creating a welcoming atmosphere for students of all levels.

Reviews on Yelp consistently praise the instructors and the training at Upstate Karate. One reviewer writes, "My kids have been going to Upstate for about a month now and they love it! The instructors are extremely nice and work very well with the kids." Another reviewer notes, "The senseis are amazing with the kids and it makes this place what it is."

Overall, Upstate Karate is a top-notch martial arts training center with a long history of excellence. With highly skilled instructors and a focus on helping students reach their full potential, it's no wonder it has been around for over 32 years. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced martial artist, Upstate Karate is the perfect place to improve your skills and reach your goals.

Gift Ideas for Upstate Karate

Upstate Karate, located in Simpsonville, South Carolina, offers a unique and exciting gift option for anyone interested in martial arts. Whether your loved one is a seasoned martial artist or a beginner, a gift from Upstate Karate is sure to delight and inspire.

For the martial arts enthusiast, consider purchasing a private lesson with Upstate Karate's founder and head instructor, Ray Thompson. Thompson, who has multiple black belts in various styles, including Kempo karate, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and kickboxing, is an expert in his field and a master at teaching. A private lesson with him is a rare opportunity to learn from one of the best in the business.

For the beginner or intermediate martial artist, a gift certificate for classes at Upstate Karate is a great option. The instructors at Upstate Karate are highly skilled and dedicated to helping students reach their maximum potential in all areas of their lives. With classes in Kempo karate, Mixed Martial Arts, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and strength and conditioning, there is something for everyone at Upstate Karate.

For the fitness enthusiast who is looking to mix up their workout routine, consider a gift certificate for Upstate Karate's strength and conditioning classes. These classes are designed to improve overall fitness and increase strength and endurance. They are the perfect way to get in shape while learning valuable self-defense skills.

Finally, for the martial arts fan who wants to show off their love for the sport, consider purchasing a piece of Upstate Karate gear. From t-shirts and hats to gear bags and training equipment, there is something for every martial arts fan at Upstate Karate.

In conclusion, Upstate Karate offers a unique and exciting gift option for anyone interested in martial arts. From private lessons with Ray Thompson to gift certificates for classes and strength and conditioning, there is something for everyone at Upstate Karate. And for the martial arts fan who wants to show off their love for the sport, Upstate Karate gear is the perfect choice. So why not give the gift of martial arts this holiday season? Your loved ones will thank you for it!

Great Restaurant Gifts Nearby