Pennsylvania Shotokan Karate

"Sensei Baldis, the main instructor of the dojo, serves as the USA National Team head Coach. Sensei Baldis's tenure as the longest-standing USA National Coach since 1996 speaks volumes about his dedication and expertise. His guidance has molded countless champions, making this dojo home to many USA Team Members. There are currently several Team USA members practice here. How many times you get to train with USA national coach and USA team members in a lesson? Sensei Baldis's unparalleled experience working with ALL USA Team members and Champions adds an invaluable dimension to the training. His insights, honed over decades of coaching, elevate the learning experience, giving students a competitive edge both on and off the mat. This Dojo isn't just a place to learn karate; it's a crucible where champions are forged. It's worth noting that the dojo's instructor maintains high standards during lessons. He expects students to give their full attention and effort, requiring a 100% focus to grasp all the details of each technique. While some may find this strict approach challenging, it ultimately fosters discipline and ensures that students develop a strong foundation in karate. Unlike many other dojos where 9 or 10-year-old kids may already be wearing black belts, it may require 7-8 years of consistent practice and training to attain a black belt at PSKC. This dojo is the truly a hidden gem in Pittsburgh. This is the only place I would go for karate."

"When he came to class the instructor was great. But he stopped showing up and didn't let us know. Wouldn't return phone calls and it took us over 2 months to get the auto pay stopped so we paid for nothing. I really thought it was helpful for my son so it was a huge letdown for him and me."

"I've been attending this school for the last 5 years. Sensei Baldis is an amazing instructor and he has a great team of supporting instructors. When I first started, he told me-- "You don't have to be an Olympian to train like one." and that really resonated with me. Every class is challenging and requires real effort. I'm in good shape, and I'm still drenched in sweat after every class. Sensei Baldis teaches a combination of self-defense, competition kata and kumite (sparring), and actual application. It never feels like I'm just doing a silly move, but that I'm doing a move that has defined purpose. At 5 years into my training, I'm still a couple years away from reaching my black belt (and I'm pretty well on course for where I should be). If you are looking for a martial arts dojo that's impactful, effortful, rewarding, and challenging -- PSKC is for you."

"This is an amazing dojo. I've had some great memories here. I love the people, and it is such an amazing place."