The Concrete Dojo: Shoubukan Karate

About

The Concrete Dojo, powered by Shoubukan Karate, is Sarasota's home for authentic, Old-School Okinawan Karate. Led by Sensei JR Ayers — a 6th Degree Black Belt with 46 years of martial arts training and instruction experience — The Concrete Dojo offers private, one-on-one and small-group karate training exclusively for adults.

Since beginning his own karate journey in 1980 at the US Naval Base in Rota, Spain,  JR has dedicated himself to preserving the traditions and practical applications of authentic Okinawan karate, passed down through a direct lineage traceable to some of Okinawa's earliest karate masters. Rather than large group classes, students train individually or in small groups, allowing for personalized instruction tailored to each person's goals — whether that's practical self-defense, discipline, fitness, or personal growth.

The Concrete Dojo also hosts Protector Self-Defense Workshops for groups and local businesses. These workshops build situational awareness, avoidance and de-escalation skills, and effective, real-world defensive techniques — taught with an emphasis on simplicity, realism, and safety.  Programs are offered in tiers, from a foundational Protector I session to an intensive, scenario-based Protector III course, and can be tailored to a group's needs or booked as private training, on-site or at local businesses.

JR brings a rare depth of experience to his coaching, having served as a former U.S. Military European Bare Knuckle Karate Champion, Sarasota County Beach Patrol Chief, Director of Security for Marriott, and founder of Ayers Security Company — giving his instruction real-world credibility beyond the dojo.

New students can start with a free introductory lesson. Visit ShoubukanKarate.com or contact JR to learn more about training at The Concrete Dojo or booking a Protector Workshop for your group.