Shorinji-Ryu Renshinkan
Shorinji-Ryu Renshinkan is a traditional style of karate rooted in the disciplined practice of kata and kumite to develop effective, real-world self-defense skills. The name Shorinji-Ryu means “Small Temple Forest,” while Renshinkan translates to “A Place to Train the Heart,” reflecting its emphasis on both physical and personal growth.
Renshinkan karate focuses on character development, competitive spirit, and physical conditioning. Training involves a balanced combination of kihon (fundamental techniques), kata (forms), kumite (sparring), yakusoku kumite (pre-arranged sparring), and bunkai (application of kata), all designed to cultivate discipline, skill, and inner strength.
Sensei Roque - Head Instructor
Sensei Roque began his martial arts journey at the age of 7, instantly falling in love with the discipline from his very first lesson at the Reitenbach Institute of Taekwondo. His passion for martial arts only deepened as he transitioned into Shotokan Karate, where he earned his black belt as a teenager under Shihan Joey Piamonte at Arodan’s Shotokan Karate. Later on, Sensei Roque earned a Black Belt in Shorinji-Ryu Renshinkan, which he was honored to receive under Shihan Manuel Gonzalez of Manuel’s Renshinkan Karate.
Born in Philippines and raised in San Francisco, California, Sensei Roque went on to attend San Francisco State University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry. He now works professionally in the biopharmaceutical industry, where he supports the research and development of new medicines—driven by a desire to help others and make a difference in people’s lives.
Despite a demanding career, Sensei Roque’s passion for martial arts has never wavered. It inspired him to found Rock Renshinkan Karatedo as a way to give back to his community and share the values of discipline, confidence, and respect—not just with his students, but also with his four children, who now train alongside him.
Sensei Roque believes that martial arts is more than self-defense—it’s a way of life. Through Rock Renshinkan, he is committed to guiding the next generation of karateka with integrity, heart, and humility.
Reflections From Sensei Roque
Martial arts—especially Karatedo—have been a meaningful part of my life from childhood, through adulthood, and now as a parent. What began as a physical discipline quickly became a lifelong path of personal growth, self-discovery, and connection with others.
Karatedo has taught me invaluable life lessons—discipline, humility, perseverance, and the importance of community. These are the same lessons I aim to share with every student and family who becomes part of our dojo.
Through years of training and competition, I learned the power of resilience, the joy of pushing past limits, and the friendships that blossom when you share a passion. Whether it was during practice, on the tournament floor, or in conversations with fellow martial artists from all over the world, I always found the same truth: martial arts connects us.
There’s a saying in our community: “A black belt is just a white belt who never quit.” I truly believe that. Mastery isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about recognizing that the journey never ends, and that each step forward comes with more to learn, more to give, and more to grow.
At our dojo, we’re not just teaching techniques—we’re building confidence, character, and community. I welcome you to begin (or continue) your martial arts journey with us.