Discover Your Inner Strength
Where Elevated Spirit Meets Empowering Strength
Discover Karate Training at Yama Kuma
Train with us at Yama Kuma Karate. Shotokan Karate classes for ages 8+. Develop discipline, strength, and self-defense skills.
About Us
At Yama Kuma, we believe in the power of the mountain bear – strong, resilient, and grounded. Our dojo is a place where you can cultivate not just physical strength, but also mental and spiritual resilience. We are here to help every individual, from curious beginners to seasoned practitioners, discover their true potential.
My journey into the world of martial arts began in Chisinau, Moldova, when I was just 8 years old. Like many kids, I joined a small afterschool club, excited to learn something new. What started as an activity quickly became a passion. Training in Traditional Shotokan and Fudokan Karate, years later I found myself not only excelling in tournaments but also stepping into a teaching role, guiding others when my Sensei needed help. It was here that I discovered the joy of sharing knowledge, helping others grow alongside me.
Life, however, has a way of throwing challenges our way. A high school injury sidelined my training for a while, but my love for martial arts never faded. During my university years, I explored other martial arts like Kyokushin, Goju-Ryu, and kickboxing. Moving to Canada in 2011 brought new adventures, and while life as an immigrant with a young family kept me busy, I tried to stay connected to martial arts, trying out BJJ and Muay Thai in Calgary.
But life had more in store. A serious injury in 2017 set me back again, but it was during this recovery that I reconnected with Traditional Karate. When my son Daniel started training in a small basement dojo with Sensei Lilia, I found myself volunteering, helping out, and eventually, training alongside him. This reignited my passion, leading me to compete again and win top honors at Western Canadian and Provincial tournaments, achieving 1st place in both Kata and Kumite at my level.
Today, I have the privilege of training both my children, Daniel and Amelia, and sharing the wisdom and joy that martial arts have brought me. I believe that every child and adult should have the opportunity to experience the benefits of martial arts, to discover their inner strength, and to make an informed decision about whether this path is right for them.
Alex Vasiliev
Sensei and Head Instructor
Discover Your Strength
Unlock your potential with high-quality Shotokan Karate training at Yama Kuma Karate. Join our supportive and disciplined community today.