DOJO United Lodz is a real gem among Lodz martial arts clubs. Located at 5 Ciolkowskiego Street, it stands out with an extremely comprehensive offer including not only traditional karate, but also Brazilian jiu-jitsu, kickboxing, MMA and fitness classes. The club is run by Mariusz Depty and Kasper Kawecki - World Champions in Traditional Karate, which guarantees the highest level of training. This exceptional staff of instructors is one of the main assets of DOJO United, attracting both beginners and advanced martial arts adepts.

The club's history dates back to the early 21st century, when karate enthusiasts decided to create a place combining traditional martial arts values with a modern approach to training. Today, DOJO United is famous for its friendly, family atmosphere, where everyone - regardless of age or skill level - can feel comfortable. The club offers specially tailored programs for different age groups, with a special focus on the needs of children and teenagers.

The NEKO Lodz Oyama Karate Club, located at 9 Mieczysława Ćwiklińska Street, is another important institution on the map of Lodz martial arts. It specializes in the Oyama style, which combines elements of Kyokushin karate with other fighting techniques to create a comprehensive and effective system of self-defense. NEKO is not just a place for physical training - it is a school of character, where equal attention is paid to the development of a warrior's mentality and ethics.

The club boasts an impressive history of sports success. Its athletes regularly win medals at national and international competitions, which testifies to the high level of training. It is worth mentioning NEKO's unique training methodology, which is based on the gradual introduction of increasingly advanced techniques, tailored to the individual abilities of the exercisers. Particularly interesting is the program for the youngest adepts, which combines elements of fun with learning basic karate techniques.

Interestingly, the name 'NEKO' (Japanese for 'cat') refers to the club's philosophy - like a cat, a karate adept should be agile, alert and precise in his movements. This symbolism is deeply rooted in the club's tradition and is an important part of its identity. The club also organizes regular training camps, during which participants can train intensively under the guidance of masters, as well as learn about the culture and philosophy of Japan.

The Kachi Shotokan Karate Club, located at 159/163 Col. Jana Kilińskiego Street, represents one of the oldest and most widespread karate styles in the world. Shotokan, created by legendary master Gichin Funakoshi, is characterized by strong, linear techniques and an emphasis on perfect form. The name 'Kachi' means 'victory' in Japanese, which perfectly reflects the spirit of the club - striving for perfection and overcoming one's limitations.

The history of Kachi is closely linked to the development of Shotokan karate in Poland. The club was founded by enthusiasts of the style who studied under Japanese masters. Today, Kachi boasts an impressive training base and an experienced staff of instructors. Particularly noteworthy is the club's training program, which places great emphasis on kata - formal sets of techniques that are the heart of traditional karate. Kata performed by Kachi fighters are true works of art, combining precision, strength and fluidity of movement.

Kyokushin Karate Club 'Shodan', located at 55/59 Wólczańska Street, represents a completely different karate philosophy. Kyokushin, created by controversial master Masutatsu Oyama, is known as 'the strongest karate' - a style that emphasizes real combat and physical endurance. The name 'Shodan' refers to the first master's degree in karate (black belt), symbolizing the beginning of the true path of the martial arts student.

The history of Kyokushin in Lodz is fascinating and full of legendary figures. The style gained immense popularity in Poland in the 1980s and 1990s, and the Lodz 'Shodan' club was one of the pioneers of its development. Characteristic elements of training at 'Shodan' are intense conditioning exercises and full-contact sparring, which toughen the bodies and spirits of the exercisers. Despite its strictness, the club attracts both men and women of all ages, offering tailored training programs.

An interesting feature is a specific Kyokushin-style examination ritual called 'kumite 100', during which an adept must fight one hundred bouts against various opponents. This extreme test of endurance and determination is cultivated at the 'Shodan' club, albeit in a modified form adapted to modern safety standards. The club also regularly organizes plank and brick smashing (tameshiwari) demonstrations, which always attract public attention at city events.

Common to both clubs is a deep commitment to Japanese dojo traditions and etiquette. Training begins and ends with a ceremonial bow (rei), and practitioners address instructors respectfully, using traditional Japanese titles. This formal side of karate training is just as important as the physical aspect, teaching discipline, respect and humility - values that adepts also carry over into everyday life.

The Champion-Team Karate Club Lodz stands out from other Lodz dojo's with its innovative approach to training and class organization. Operating in several locations (including Elsnera 8, Tatarakowa 11 and Yugoslavia 2), the club provides exceptional accessibility to residents of various Lodz neighborhoods. This strategy of dispersed activity allows the club to reach a wider audience and promote karate as a sport for everyone.

Champion-Team has a fascinating history, dating back to the early 1990s, when a group of enthusiasts decided to create a club combining different karate styles and training approaches. Today, the club is renowned for its comprehensive training program, which includes both sports and self-defense aspects. Of particular interest is the club's proprietary 'Karate Kids' program for preschool children, which introduces the youngest to the world of martial arts in a fun format, developing their coordination, concentration and self-confidence.

It is worth mentioning the unique motivational system used at Champion-Team. In addition to the traditional belt system, the club has introduced additional markings (patches, badges) for achievements in specific elements of training. This innovative idea works well especially with younger adepts, giving them a sense of regular progress and motivating them to continue working.

Comparing all five of the described clubs, there are both similarities and significant differences. DOJO United Lodz and Champion-Team Lodz offer the most comprehensive offerings, combining different martial arts and training methods. These places are ideal for those looking for variety and a modern approach to training. In contrast, the Kachi Shotokan Karate Club and the Kyokushin Karate Club 'Shodan' represent a more traditional approach, focusing on one particular karate style and its philosophy. The NEKO Oyama Karate Club of Lodz takes an intermediate position, combining tradition with modern training methods.

As for the price list, all clubs offer classes at affordable prices, although some differences can be noted. DOJO United and Champion-Team, due to their broader offerings, have slightly higher prices (in the middle range), but also offer more membership options, including family passes. Kachi and 'Shodan' clubs, which focus on a single style, tend to be slightly cheaper (lower to mid-range). NEKO ranks in the middle of the price scale.

It's also worth noting the atmosphere at each club. DOJO United and Champion-Team focus on a friendly, family environment, ideal for beginners and families with children. The 'Shodan' club, due to the strict nature of the Kyokushin style, may seem more challenging and better suited to those looking for intense training. Kachi and NEKO offer a balanced approach, combining traditional discipline with a friendly atmosphere.

Regardless of the club chosen, karate training in Lodz is not only about physical development, but also spiritual and mental development. All the described dojos cultivate traditional martial arts values: respect, discipline, perseverance and the pursuit of excellence. These values, passed down from generation to generation, are the foundation of the Lodz karate community, which, despite differences in styles and training approaches, forms one united family of martial arts enthusiasts.