Karate

Karate

LEARN SKILLS AND GAIN CONFIDENCE

Our Style
Uechi-Ryu (pronounced way-chee-roo) is a traditional style of karate from Okinawa, Japan. Students of this style will develop a variety of karate techniques and applications, physical and mental toughness, and grow in personal character. Training in martial arts also teaches many practical life skills including self-defense, teamwork, and leadership traits. Students do not need to be young and naturally athletic to be successful; instead, we simply ask that students arrive with an open mind and an eagerness to learn.
Head Instructor: Rachel Lowe
Sensei Rachel is a 3rd degree black belt in Uechi-Ryu Karate, having been training and teaching since 2017. She has also trained in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu since 2023 and Mixed Martial Arts since 2025. Rachel is a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant with education in anatomy, biomechanics, and progressive functional training. More importantly, she is passionate about empowering students to become the best possible version of themselves. With her knowledge and experience, she is an expert at providing safe, effective, and engaging instruction for students of all ages.
Assistant Instructor: Aly Lowe
Sensei Aly has studied Uechi-Ryu karate since 2018 and is a second-degree black belt. With a background in competitive team sports, first aid, and group fitness, she was also a teacher in the Charlotte Mecklenburg school system before becoming a tutor home educator. Her passion is sharing what she has learned with the next generation in a way that is fun and inspirational.
Assistant Instructor: Ryan Nadel
I have been practicing Uechi Ryu Karate for 7 years. I have been teaching Karate with Sensei Rachel at the Y for 1 year now. I really enjoy the confidence and physical fitness that Karate has given me. I want to teach others the skills, confidence, and physical fitness to lead healthy, more empowering lives. I enjoy showing students what is possible with martial arts and helping achieve their goals through martial arts practice. It is a great feeling to see them grow in skill, ability, and fitness. 

Cost: $100 per month/members   $200 per month/non-members

Testing Dates:

Testing will be available if the student is ready (Readiness is determined by the senior instructor).

Uniform and Additional Gear:

  • A uniform will be required to be purchased prior to the first testing. Information will be provided to you on where to purchase.
  • Additional gear may be needed after yellow belt.

Belt and T-shirt:

T-shirts and Belts will be provided, as well as equipment needed during class. Full uniforms are optional for class.

Questions or concerns? AJ Johnson, Sports Director at [email protected]

Baxter Close Ages 7-12 (All Levels)

Baxter Close YMCA
9/3/25 - 12/22/25
VIEW

LEARN SKILLS AND GAIN CONFIDENCE

Uechi-Ryu (pronounced way-chee-roo) is a traditional style of karate from Okinawa, Japan. Students of this style will learn a combination of both powerful and fluid techniques, develop mental and physical toughness, and experience growth of personal character. Many of the lessons are directly applicable to self-defense, yet they also instill principles which aid in facing life’s daily challenges. Physical requirements are such that natural youth and athleticism are not necessary to be successful; instead, we simply ask that students arrive with an open mind and an eagerness to learn.

Senior Instructor: Rachel

Sensei Rachel is a 3rd degree black belt in Uechi-Ryu Karate with over 6 years of dedicated practice and teaching. She is also a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant with extensive education in anatomy, biomechanics, and progressive functional training.  With this knowledge and experience, she is an expert at providing safe, effective, and engaging instruction for students of all ages. Her goal is to empower students to become the best possible version of themselves.

Registration: You will register for the entire  year. You are able to cancel and withdraw anytime with a 4 week notice.

Testing Dates:

Testing will be available if the student is ready (Readiness is determined by the senior instructor).

  • Testing opportunities are on the following Fridays:
    • January 17th, February 21st, March 14th, April 11th, May 16th, June 20th, July 18th, August 15th, September 19th, October 17th, November 21st, December 19th

Uniform and Additional Gear:

  • A uniform will be required to be purchased prior to the first testing. Information will be provided to you on where to purchase.
  • Additional gear may be needed after yellow belt.

Belt and T-shirt:

T-shirts and Belts will be provided, as well as equipment needed during class. Full uniforms are optional for class.

Questions or concerns? AJ Johnson, Sports Director at [email protected]

 

You will register for the entire year. You are able to cancel and withdraw anytime with a 4-week notice.

Questions or concerns? AJ Johnson, Sports Director at [email protected]


Available Sessions

Date(s)
09/03/25 - 09/29/25
no class September 1 - Mo,We - 6:00 pm - 1 hr
Registration
Closed on
09/03/2025
10/01/25 - 10/29/25
Mo,We - 6:00 pm - 1 hr
Register  
Closes
10/01/2025
11/03/25 - 11/24/25
no class November 25-28 - Mo,We - 6:00 pm - 1 hr
Register  
Closes
11/03/2025
12/01/25 - 12/22/25
no class December 23-31 - Mo,We - 6:00 pm - 1 hr
Register  
Closes
12/01/2025

Baxter Close Ages 13+ (All Levels)

Baxter Close YMCA
9/3/25 - 12/22/25
VIEW

LEARN SKILLS AND GAIN CONFIDENCE

Uechi-Ryu (pronounced way-chee-roo) is a traditional style of karate from Okinawa, Japan. Students of this style will learn a combination of both powerful and fluid techniques, develop mental and physical toughness, and experience growth of personal character. Many of the lessons are directly applicable to self-defense, yet they also instill principles which aid in facing life’s daily challenges. Physical requirements are such that natural youth and athleticism are not necessary to be successful; instead, we simply ask that students arrive with an open mind and an eagerness to learn.

Senior Instructor: Rachel

Sensei Rachel is a 3rd degree black belt in Uechi-Ryu Karate with over 6 years of dedicated practice and teaching. She is also a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant with extensive education in anatomy, biomechanics, and progressive functional training.  With this knowledge and experience, she is an expert at providing safe, effective, and engaging instruction for students of all ages. Her goal is to empower students to become the best possible version of themselves.

Registration: You will register for the entire  year. You are able to cancel and withdraw anytime with a 4 week notice.

Testing Dates:

Testing will be available if the student is ready (Readiness is determined by the senior instructor).

  • Testing opportunities are on the following Fridays:
    • January 17th, February 21st, March 14th, April 11th, May 16th, June 20th, July 18th, August 15th, September 19th, October 17th, November 21st, December 19th

Uniform and Additional Gear:

  • A uniform will be required to be purchased prior to the first testing. Information will be provided to you on where to purchase.
  • Additional gear may be needed after yellow belt.

Belt and T-shirt:

T-shirts and Belts will be provided, as well as equipment needed during class. Full uniforms are optional for class.

You will register for the entire year. You can cancel and withdraw at anytime with a 4-week notice

Questions or concerns? AJ Johnson, Sports Director at [email protected]

 

 

 


Available Sessions

Date(s)
09/03/25 - 09/29/25
no class September 1 - Mo,We - 7:00 pm - 1 hr
Registration
Closed on
09/03/2025
10/01/25 - 10/29/25
Mo,We - 7:00 pm - 1 hr
Register  
Closes
10/01/2025
11/03/25 - 11/24/25
no class November 25-28 - Mo,We - 7:00 pm - 1 hr
Register  
Closes
11/03/2025
12/01/25 - 12/22/25
no class December 23-31 - Mo,We - 7:00 pm - 1 hr
Register  
Closes
12/01/2025

 

Angie Smith

Angie Smith, is a gifted writer, encourager and loving mother of four. Together with her husband, former NFL player Steve Smith, they established The Steve Smith Family Foundation, which is dedicated to providing hope and inspiration to those in need while advancing causes  close to the family’s heart – Promoting family health & wellness as well as the awareness and prevention of domestic violence.

In 2022, The Steve Smith Foundation and Mecklenburg County partnered to create Charlotte’s first behavioral health urgent care, a 24/7, 365 urgent care facility dedicated to mental health and substance abuse needs.

Angie’s commitment to her family, transparency and unselfishness, by putting other’s needs before her own, is an inspiration to all of us!

Alan Tyson

Alan Tyson is the President Architech Sports and Physical Therapy. He was the former Vice President of Sports Performance and Rehabilitation for OrthoCarolina. He is a physical therapist board certified as a sports clinical specialist, a certified athletic trainer and certified strength and conditioning specialist. He has worked with the Charlotte Knights (AAA affiliate of the Chicago White Sox) and continues to serve as a consultant to the team. Alan is also a consultant with the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte Eagles.

Alan has spoken regionally and nationally on various training topics including the foot and ankle, spine care, hip and knee rehabilitation, and he has developed two continuing education courses on the shoulder. He has written 3 books and developed specific training programs for the female athlete, the baseball pitcher, and for football players preparing for the NFL combines. Alan is also an associate editor of the National Strength and Conditioning Journal. He co-hosted a weekly radio show “Health Headlines” on 1110AM WBT with Stacey Sims and Dr. Russ Greenfield for 3 years.

Antoinette Johnson

Meet Antoinette Johnson, the inspiring culinary star of “America’s Test Kitchen: The Next Generation” Hailing from Lexington, KY, she transforms simple, humble ingredients into extraordinary dishes, all while championing the use of fresh, locally-sourced produce. Through her triumph on “America’s Test Kitchen: The Next Generation,” Antoinette’s unwavering perseverance catapulted her career, proving that with passion and determination, anything is possible. With a heart dedicated to community and a love for supporting local farmers, Antoinette’s journey is a testament to embracing change, fostering growth, and inspiring others to follow their culinary dreams.

Beyond her culinary triumphs, Antoinette is a firm believer in the power of evolution and perseverance. She stands as a shining example of how one can constantly evolve, change, and grow on their journey to success. Antoinette’s story is one of resilience and determination, inspiring others to follow their passions despite any challenges they may encounter.

Now, with a cookbook deal and cash grand prize, Antoinette is forging ahead on her culinary adventure, driven by the desire to prove herself and inspire her daughter.

INCLEMENT WEATHER

Due to the current weather conditions, 

all facilities will open on 

Wednesday, January 22 @ 1:00pm

We have five Fitness+ locations that will be open for members who have signed up, with completed paperwork, for this member benefit. 

Download the YMCA360 app for future alerts and check out the on-demand videos for a workout on your schedule!