2025-10-02T17:30:03.428Z

I have been with Coastal Shotokan Karate for 11 months. Sensei Tom and Senpai Roberto have a combined 70 years of experience in karate; their professionalism, dedication, and commitment to excellence is what has kept me at this location learning Shotokan Karate. We found the location 3 years ago when we had a foreign exchange student from Japan for the year. He confirmed that what was being taught in Pensacola was the same as what was taught in Japan. We decided to put our son, and then nephew, in with our exchange student to learn karate. Over the last two and a half to three years we have watched our both grow in his confidence, discipline, athleticism, and enthusiasm for karate and helping others.Professionalism:Sensei Tom and Senpai Roberto adhere to the five rules of Shotokan Karate.1) Seek Perfection2) Be Faithful3) Endeavor4) Respect Other5) Refrain from Violent BehaviorBoth have unmatched professionalism! Their ability to work with young children in our class by being gentle yet firm and building their confidence when they have questions about what/how to do moves. Yet they still hold them to the standard of what is required to progress. I am the second oldest in the class and both know how to work with middle aged, retired military person who has been extremely rough on his body and pays for it now. Senpai Roberto is an advocate for training for years to come. He told me when I first got there: “Don’t hurt yourself, we train to train for years to come.” He pushes me but keeps an eye on me to make sure I am not overdoing it because of misplaced youthful (in mind and heart) enthusiasm.Dedication:When training has officially finished Sensei Tom and Senpai Roberto do not walk out the door. They are there to answer questions, give advice, and teach more, even though they are not required to or paid to train more. It is their passion and love for karate that drives their dedication. They have built a culture, love, and passion among all of us that flows through the class that keeps many of us after training to continue training with each other. Many nights Senpai Roberto has been there working with individuals helping them to perfect techniques for 30-45 minutes after class. This has extended beyond the classroom, and we have started meeting with each other socially and to train together of our own accord.Commitment to Excellence:Whether you are a young child or a seasoned individual they adhere to the “Seek Perfection” rule of Shotokan Karate. I have seen my son, nephew, and myself fall in love with a sport that knows that no one is perfect but pushes you to seek perfection; through personal self-discipline, the help of others, and those with whom have been entrusted and given the honor to train you.I give four thumbs up and recommend trying Coastal Shotokan Karate to anyone and everyone, young or seasoned, already established in another form of martial arts or have never tried anything, someone looking for something that is missing, a way to stay active, or looking for positive and motivating friend. Coastal Shotokan Karate is a great place to be.

2025-09-19T21:00:43.572Z

I’ve been going there about a year, The warmups really get you ready for training. The training is about an hour. I feel like we train the core beliefs of Shotokan karate.

2025-09-09T03:04:48.958Z

We love Coastal Shotokan! Sensei Tom is the best teacher! He's so down to earth and makes sure you understand all his instructions. He does really well to incorporate all experience levels in one class. It's very well structured and organized. We've learned so much in 2 months. We felt included and like family from day 1. The class has children age 9 up to mature adults ;) It's not easy, and you will be sore, but the knowledge, growth, control, and physical strength you receive is well worth the effort! We hope to be a part of this group for many years!

2024-12-08T17:11:29.509Z

I had previously taken JKA Shotokan classes in both Auburn and Mobile, many years ago. I was thrilled to find that I could begin practicing the same style nearby in Pensacola. Outside of belt tests/camps, Sensei Tom is the highest ranking JKA instructor that I have trained under. I have found that after classes, I make some notes, based on the advice I get from him and the senior students. All of our instructors are very patient and knowledgeable, and the class is a mixed class of adults and children. I am thankful for Sensei Tom and everyone in our group!

2024-12-07T16:00:51.180Z

I'm glad I found traditional Shotokan school in this area. I have been training here for 1 year, and I highly recommend this place for any age and belt skill level.

2024-12-07T15:35:03.455Z

Coastal Shotokan and Sensei Tom Fruitticher are awesome. I have been practicing Shotokan Karate for about 2 decades and have had 5 other senseis. I cam to Costal Shotokan about a year ago, and it is clear that Sensei Fruitticher is a great teacher, he keeps the clases both fun, and disaplend. I mentioned that I was training under him to a previous Sensei who is in a different state and Shotkan Karate organization and he spoke highly of Sensei Fruitticher. I am learning a lot from Sensei Fruitticher and the comity is realy friendly too. We would love to have you joine.

2024-12-06T16:14:41.057Z

Tom 8s a true leader. The class is awesome. I have young ones in the class and they are learning and very happy to be with such a group. They never feel left out. The learn so much each night

2024-12-06T16:08:57.671Z

Coastal Shotokan is a wonderful class that is taught with knowledge and care. My sons and I feel like we are training with family not just a class. My oldest son was very stagnant and didn't want to workout, and my youngest was unfocused. This class has help them both improve on these quality.We plan on being lifetime members, Ossu!

2023-11-09T01:46:51.554Z

I really enjoy this class. If you are looking to take Karate, you cant go wrong here. I am overweight, and it provides me a fun place to get my exercise. They are very patient with me, and encourage me to do my best. Its a fantastic atmosphere! Come join us!

2023-10-13T17:51:24.289Z

Best karate around! Tom provides a perfect environment for all ages and levels of expertise. Could not recommend more.

2023-08-23T21:30:56.906Z

This is my first time taking a class like this and everyone is very helpful, patient, and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend taking this class!

2023-05-23T19:05:05.922Z

I have been training with Tom for the past six years and I greatly recommend training with us if you look for traditional karate.

2022-07-19T18:58:05.000Z

Welcoming and inspiring environment. We train hard to improve our bodies and mind.

2015-02-01T07:11:57.000Z

2015-01-16T02:46:12.000Z

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2015-01-13T18:32:19.000Z

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