Karate classes are now available for children and adults at the Krikorian Institute of Kenpo Karate in Patagonia. Instructor Jared Krikorian describes the training as a combination of exercises for mind and body, utilizing the techniques of Karate, Judo, Jujitsu, Eskrima, and Kenpo.
Krikorian, who was born and raised in Rhode Island, began his training at the age of 24 at the Kenpo Karate Institute. Seven years later, he had earned the rank of 1st Degree Dan Black Belt, Karazenpo Go Shinjutsu, and began instructing at the institute while he continued his training. By the time he left for Arizona in 2010, he had been promoted to 3rd Degree Black Belt. Krikorian and his wife, Mindy, have lived in Patagonia with their children, Asa and Enoch, for the past four years.
Classes for both youth and adults are offered at Tod Bowden’s Fitness Studio, 316 Smelter Avenue. Youth classes are held on Monday and Wednesday from 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. and on Saturday from 9 to 9:45 a.m. Adult classes are on Monday and Wednesday from 5:45 to 7 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 to 11:15 a.m. The institute is offering three free classes for those who are new to Karate and would like to investigate its benefits. If you would like to join a class or discuss a membership program, call Jared at 520-987-0211 or email him at krikoriankenpo@gmail.com.