Vision for Baldwin now a reality

Shunato Karate & Fitness Center

2394 Grand Avenue, Baldwin

1-855-99-KICKS

www.shunato.com

This May, a long-time vision became a reality. Sensei Kato Peragine and his wife, Tina, have opened a self defense school in Baldwin, the town where they live. This is a community they know and love, where three of their children attend school.

Sensei Kato started training in Shotokan Karate in 1970 under the renowned Master Toyotaro Miyazaki, who learned in Japan from Tomosaburo Okano, who was taught by Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of Shotokan. As one of Master Miyazaki’s original Flushing students, Sensei Kato learned in a highly traditional way from a teacher with a respected lineage. Although he has been involved in martial arts his for most of his life, Sensei Kato continues to take classes from “his Sensei,” Master Miyazaki. Having grown up in a tough neighborhood, Kato found that Karate saved him from trouble numerous times. It also taught him to channel his energy in positive ways.

Sensei Kato has competed nationally, including at Madison Square Garden, and holds championship titles in Kata, Kumite, Weapons and Breaking. He has also trained in Jiu-Jitsu, Aiki-Jitsu, Judo, Kung Fu, Wing Chun, grappling, ground fighting, was a Golden Gloves Boxer, and is a Certified C.O.B.R.A. Self Defense Instructor.

As a father of five, he knows that yesterday’s techniques aren’t necessarily good for today. He has combined all the knowledge he gained in the dojo, the classroom, on the streets and in the ring, as a student, teacher and father, to design a top notch martial arts program for today’s times. In addition, he’s a drummer for The Good Rats, spent years as an EMT, was a bodyguard for Ralph Macchio (The Karate Kid), and is a church and school volunteer.

“Shunato Karate & Fitness Center was designed with thought and experience,” said Tina, who is also the program director. “Up front, the ‘Karate Café’ offers free coffee for parents, and a comfy place to watch their children in class. In the rear is a waiting room and playroom with toys and TV for younger children. The main mat area is large and cushioned, with safety equipment. Younger children are in separate classes. Age five and up is based on skill. It’s a structured, safe environment.”

All the Sensei’s and trainers at Shunato Karate go through a rigorous screening process, and all employees must pass a background check. They must also have the appropriate credentials and demonstrate ability to teach at the high standard of the school. Schedules – for ages four through adults - are convenient and flexible and can be found on the web site. Also offered are classes in Zumba and Kickboxing. Children’s birthday parties can be arranged.