Ribbon-cutting at The Garden Dojo: Barrington's premier karate training center

The Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, April 11, to celebrate the opening of The Garden Dojo, 455 W. Northwest Highway, Barrington.

Founded and led by Sensei Brian Mertel, a former Olympic karate coach and Shotokan world champion ranked fifth in the world, The Garden Dojo offers a diverse range of programs tailored for all ages and skill levels.

"We offer traditional karate classes as well as sport karate classes for ages 4 and up," says Sensei Brian Mertel. "Our emphasis with kids is building self-confidence and discipline through the practice of karate. Students will also gain confidence in their self-defense capabilities as well as their development of physical and mental strength.”

For those seeking to train and compete at a high level, The Garden Dojo provides the opportunity to train with an Olympic Coach through their Elite Karate program.

With over 20 years of experience teaching karate, Sensei Mertel brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to The Garden Dojo. His dedication to fostering a supportive and enriching environment ensures that every student receives personalized attention and guidance on their martial arts journey.

Enrollment is now open at The Garden Dojo, inviting new students to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and skill development. Whether you're a novice seeking to build a strong foundation or a seasoned practitioner aiming to reach new heights, The Garden Dojo provides a supportive and enriching environment for all students.

For information about The Garden Dojo and to enroll in its programs, visit thegardendojo.com or contact (224) 396-0074 or bamkarate@thegardendojo.com.