CANTON -- American Kang Duk Won Karate is offering its fall series of lessons at two locations in Canton.

St. Lawrence University’s Stafford Fitness Center has scheduled fall lessons in self-defense and karate from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. Monday evenings in the main multi-purpose room. Lessons are open to all students and staff members of the SLU campus, as well as North Country community members. Youth must be at least 14 years of age unless registered with parent. The sessions teach basic and advanced techniques related to traditional martial arts. Six-week or full semester memberships are available through Robin Durocher, 229-5415.

Weekly classes meet at St. Mary’s School gymnasium on Wednesdays from 5 to 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 to 10:30 a.m. throughout the school year. The community programs include lessons for adults, teens, and children ages 7 and up. Everyone is welcome to actively participate in or observe a trial class at any time.

The classes highlight respect, cooperation, balance, setting and attaining goals, and academic achievement (for all school youth). Traditional uniforms are included in an individual’s introductory membership. Belt rank promotions are conducted for each martial artist who has successfully attained skills required for further levels of training.

For information visit www.americankangdukwon.org or contact program director Frank Palumbo, 386-3029.

Safety topics addressed throughout the lessons include: recognizing risky situations; avoiding and escaping aggressors, anti-bullying concepts (personal, social media), and an introductory curriculum of exercises in the Art of American Kang Duk Won Karate. All activities are taught in a highly respectful, non-contact manner. Lessons are taught through a series of energetic routines in a highly disciplined class setting. Loose clothing is advised. No previous experience in martial arts training is required to join. Two additional local classes are available to SLU registrants.