Today we’d like to introduce you to Duval Hamilton.
Hi Duval, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I began my martial arts journey at the age of 13 in New York City, starting with Kung Fu and Tae Kwon Do. Over the years, I became deeply passionate about martial arts, which led me to pursue extensive training in various disciplines. Eventually, I found my way to Kyokushinkai Karate, a full-contact style founded by Mas Oyama, and dedicated myself to mastering it.
I moved to Dallas, where I now run Dallas Kyokushin Karate as the head instructor and owner, holding the rank of 4th Dan. Over the last 35 years, martial arts has been more than just a physical practice for me—it’s been a way of life that I’ve dedicated to helping others through teaching self-defense, discipline, and fostering a strong community. Along the way, I’ve developed programs for students with disabilities, at-risk youth, and anyone looking to grow both mentally and physically.
Today, my mission is to build a diverse community where people from all backgrounds can come together to train, grow, and support each other through the art of karate.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It’s been a rewarding journey, but certainly not a smooth road. Like many endeavors, building a martial arts school from the ground up comes with its own set of challenges. One of the biggest struggles was establishing a community in a new city. When I first moved to Dallas, I didn’t have many local connections, so getting people to trust me as an instructor and leader took time and patience.
Another hurdle has been balancing traditional martial arts values with modern-day expectations. Kyokushin Karate, with its rigorous discipline and physical demands, can be intimidating for some, especially when many people today are seeking faster results or less demanding activities. Overcoming that mindset has required a lot of education and encouragement.
Lastly, COVID-19 brought a huge challenge, especially for physical spaces like dojos. Shifting to virtual classes, keeping students engaged, and ensuring their safety while still maintaining the integrity of training was a learning curve for all of us.
Despite these struggles, every challenge has been an opportunity for growth, both personally and for my students. It’s made the journey that much more fulfilling.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
At Dallas Kyokushin Karate, I specialize in teaching Kyokushinkai Karate, a full-contact martial art that emphasizes discipline, physical and mental toughness, and personal growth. Beyond traditional karate, I also offer programs which focuses on self-defense for men, women, and children, and caters to people from all walks of life, including those with disabilities or at risk. My mission is to make martial arts accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or physical ability.
I’m particularly proud of the community we’ve built here. Our dojo has become a place where people from all cultures and backgrounds come together not just to train but to support one another and grow as individuals. I’m also proud of the programs we’ve developed for at-risk youth and students with disabilities, as I strongly believe martial arts can instill a growth mindset and resilience that extend far beyond the dojo.
What sets me apart is my dedication to Mas Oyama’s teachings and my commitment to holistic martial arts training. It’s not just about fighting or physical techniques; it’s about character development, discipline, and mental strength. I also bring over 35 years of experience across various martial arts disciplines, and that diversity allows me to tailor my approach to each student’s needs. Additionally, being involved in community outreach, from self-defense classes to motivational programs, has helped me make a lasting impact both inside and outside the dojo.
What matters most to you? Why?
What matters most to me is empowering others through martial arts. I believe that martial arts is more than just physical training—it’s a tool for building confidence, discipline, resilience, and mental strength. Whether it’s helping a child find their self-confidence, teaching a woman how to protect herself, or showing a student how to push past their perceived limits, the most rewarding part of my work is seeing people transform.
I also care deeply about community and inclusivity. My goal has always been to create a space where people from all walks of life can come together to train, grow, and support one another. I’ve seen firsthand how martial arts can break down barriers and bring people together, which is why I’ve developed programs that cater to individuals with different needs, including at-risk youth and those with disabilities. It’s important to me that everyone has access to the benefits martial arts can offer, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Ultimately, what drives me is seeing people become stronger versions of themselves, not just physically but mentally and emotionally. That’s why I do what I do
Contact Info:
- Website: https://texaskyokushin.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/dallaskyokushin
- Facebook: facebook.com/dallaskyokushin
Image Credits
Duval Hamilton
