Present in over 48 locations across Quebec, as well as in several schools (extracurricular activities), Groupe Karaté Sportif distinguishes itself through its teaching method focused on positive reinforcement and motivation. The classes they offer don’t just aim to master karate technique, but they also cultivate respect, perseverance, and self-esteem. For over 35 years, the Karate Sport Group (GKS) has been helping thousands of children develop their confidence, focus, and discipline through a unique approach that places children’s education and personal growth at the heart of every class. “For us, karate is a pretext for teaching life,” explains Marcelin Cantin, president and co-founder of Groupe Karaté Sportif. We spoke with Cantin to learn more.
What is your business called and what does it do?
Our business is called Groupe Karaté Sportif. We operate 48 schools and over 150 service points across Québec. We help children and families develop confidence, discipline, respect, focus and resilience through martial arts, leadership pathways, prevention programs, and educational services.
What made you want to do this work?
My goal was never to simply open a karate school— I wanted to create a movement focused on human development, where children grow, families feel supported, and strong values become part of daily life.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
We address key challenges many families face:
– building confidence in young children
– emotional regulation
– structure, routine and positive discipline
– role models and leadership
– community support
We help young people succeed at home, at school, and in life.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
Our programs begin as early as age 2, with the Super Héros program for toddlers. We serve:
• children ages 2 to teens
• parents and families
• schools, daycares and community partners
Each year, thousands of children progress through our programs.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
We provide structured and progressive services:
• Martial arts training
• Leadership and assistant-instructor pathways
• School and daycare workshops
• Prevention and safety courses (ASA Défense)
• Day camps and PD-day activities
Our model is based on continuity, quality, and meaningful human impact.
Where in the city can we find your profession?
We are present across the province of Québec:
– From the Outaouais region (Aylmer)
– To Québec City (Lebourgneuf)
– Throughout the Greater Montréal Area
– And the Laurentians
Families across these regions access our programs every week.
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask when comparing services? Give the answer as well.
Question: “How will this program help my child grow as a person?”
Answer: By developing essential life skills:
✔️ Confidence
✔️ Respect
✔️ Focus
✔️ Self-control
✔️ Perseverance
These skills serve them for life—far beyond martial arts.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
Best: Seeing children evolve—from their first steps at age 2 to their black belt journey years later. Witnessing families reconnect and thrive.
Worst: Wishing there were more hours in the day to help even more young people.
What is your favourite joke about your profession?
“We don’t just teach kids to kick… We teach them to stand tall.”
Where can we follow you?
LinkedIn | Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube
PAY IT FORWARD — What is another local business that you love?
I admire all Québec entrepreneurs who work every day to make a difference. Those who innovate, serve their communities, and contribute to enriching the province—ce sont eux qui font grandir le Québec.
