Steven Franz has dedicated nearly five decades to the study, practice, and preservation of traditional Okinawan karate. A Nanadan (7th Degree Black Belt) in Shorin Ryu Shorinkan and a longtime student of Eddie Bethea Kyoshi, Steven has built a lifelong commitment to authentic training, disciplined instruction, and practical martial arts.
In 1991, Steven founded Franz Karate with the goal of creating a full-time traditional dojo where students could develop through proper progression, strong fundamentals, technical precision, and a clear emphasis on character development. More than three decades later, Franz Karate continues that mission with locations in Bryan, Ohio, and Auburn, Indiana.
As a longtime instructor, Steven has become known for a direct, principle-based approach to teaching and for his dedication to maintaining the traditions and values of Okinawan karate. His approach extends beyond simply learning techniques, emphasizing the importance of discipline, respect, perseverance, personal responsibility, and continued growth.
For Steven, martial arts is a lifelong journey. The lessons developed through years of training have the potential to shape not only how a student performs in the dojo, but how they approach challenges and responsibilities in everyday life.
With nearly 50 years in the martial arts and more than 35 years leading his own dojo, Steven Franz represents a generation of instructors committed to keeping traditional karate alive and passing its principles on to the next generation.
Please enjoy my interview with Steven Franz.
FRANZ KARATE – AUTHENTIC OKINAWAN KARATE AND EFFECTIVE SELF DEFENSE FOR ALL AGES
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:07:03 — 92.1MB)
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