Atlanta’s Traditional Okinawan Karate-Do Dojo

Specialties

Since 1987, we have taught two systems of traditional Okinawan karate in Sandy Springs. We do not teach sport karate. These systems were developed hundreds of years ago when unarmed techniques were the only means of self-​defense, and they have been passed down for generations. Sensei Mark Moeller also incorporates principles and drills from his study of Tai Chi Chuan, Hung Gar Kung Fu and Aikido for more than twenty years.

All of the martial arts at Atlanta’s Traditional Okinawan Karate-​do Dojo are taught in an atmosphere of cooperation and mutual respect. The goal is to strengthen the individual in all aspects of development.

History

Established in 1987.

Sensei Moeller began his karate training in 1979 at the University of Michigan. In 1983, he started his first karate school during his first year of law school at Duke University.

Atlanta’s Traditional Okinawan Karate-​do Dojo was started on April 9, 1987. In order to be able to offer classes at affordable rates, Sensei Moeller deliberately choose Hammond Park as the location for his classes. For the first three months, there were only two students in the class. One of those students, Sensei Mark Snepp, is still training at the Dojo and helps teach the classes. There are three other instructors who have been at the Dojo for more than 20 years.

In 1995, the Dojo began offering classes for children age 6 and older. There is also an additional advanced class on Monday nights for students that have earned their brown belts and black belts.

Classes are still held at Hammond Park. In 2012, the Dojo celebrated its 25^th Anniversary.

Meet the Business Owner

Mark M.

Business Owner

Sensei Moeller has been studying Okinawan karate since 1979. He currently holds a 6^th degree blackbelt in Shorin Ryu Karate-​do and also in Shudokan Karate-​do.

He began his training in Aikido and Hung Gar Kung Fu in 1981. He has also practiced the Yang style of Tai Chi Chuan since 1993.

His book, Karate-​do Foundations, was published by Masters Press in 1995. The second edition was released in 2013.

Sensei Moeller has a true passion for teaching. His enthusiasm is evident in all of his classes. He loves working with students at all levels to help them grow and develop. His patience and ability to explain the principles and details of the various techniques allows students to learn more quickly.