About

Chief instructor, Michael Polito of the East Wave Dojo, started his karate journey in 1979 in Chinese martial arts. He transitioned into Okinawan Kempo Karate and Kyokushin/Oyama karate, and continued there for the next 40 plus years.

East Wave Dojo is based on the concepts of our core style, Okinawan Kempo Karate, but also includes the teachings of Kyokushin/Oyama Karate. These styles are effectively blended to produce students of strong spirit and mind, strong life protection skills, and achieved physical strength and excellent health. We strive to produce students of positive moral character, and to be positive role models to others in our society.

The training at the East Wave Dojo is very versatile, consisting of traditional forms and exercises, traditional weaponry, heavy bag and pad work, and controlled contact fighting to increase stamina and power. We learn to fight smart, and effectively rather than out of anger or revenge. Our students are encouraged never to use their karate unless as a last resort, but rather on lending a hand to help others.

Michael Polito’s current teacher is Kyoshi G. Senese of L.I. an original student of Taika Seiyu Oyata. Michael Polito also is a student of Iaido (Japanese Swordsmanship) and is a student directly under Sensei Noburu Kataoka of NYC. Michael Polito’s past teachers have included; Kyoshi Joseph Mansfield, Shihan Michael Skinner, and Teruyuki Higa, all whom he still respects and continues to consider as mentors.