About Us
At True North Karate, we work on strengthening, growing, and balancing our mind, body, and spirit. We center discipline, respect, focus, and fun for a well-rounded practice of martial arts.
Uechi Ryu
Uechi Ryu is a traditional Okinawan form of karate, originally known as Pangainoon (meaning half hard, half soft). The style focuses on strong stance, redirecting energy, and circular movements.
Martial Art Virtues
At True North Karate, we prioritize the practice of the Eight Virtues of a Black Belt: compassion, courtesy, modesty, integrity, self-control, perseverance, indomitable spirit, and gratitude. We carry these virtues with us both inside and outside the dojo and intentionally use them in our practice.
Sensei Jen Michaud
Owner and Head Instructor / 5th Degree Black belt / Uechi Ryu Karate
For Sensei Jen Michaud, karate has always been about much more than punches, kicks, or earning a black belt. It's about building confidence, developing character, overcoming challenges, and discovering what we're truly capable of. With over 15 years of experience in both training and teaching,
Jen brings a combination of traditional martial arts, encouragement, discipline, and genuine care to every class.
A 5th-degree black belt who has earned the distinguished title of Shihan, she believes every student has something special to offer and the journey and growth looks different for everyone.
For Jen, earning a black belt was never the finish line, and neither was becoming an instructor. She believes learning and growth are lifelong pursuits. She continues to train under renowned martial arts instructor Mr. Buzz Durkin, alongside practitioners with 30, 40, and even 50 years of experience. She also welcomes experienced guest instructors to True North Karate, sharing different perspectives and generations of martial arts knowledge with her students.
As the owner of True North Karate, Jen has created a welcoming community where students of all ages are encouraged to challenge themselves, support one another, and grow both inside and outside the dojo.
Outside the dojo, Jen enjoys spending time with her two amazing daughters and friends, being outdoors, and expressing her creativity through woodworking.At the heart of her teaching is a simple belief: Karate isn't just about becoming a better martial artist. It's about becoming a stronger, more confident, and more compassionate person.