About Kintora
Built on discipline, respect, and community
Kintora Judo and Martial Arts Center helps youth and adults train with structure, confidence, and purpose. Our club brings together traditional martial arts values, skilled instruction, and a welcoming environment where students grow on and off the mat.
Our Story
A place to train with purpose
Kin-Tora Martial Arts and Fitness Center, located on Lake Erie just on the outskirts of Buffalo, NY, is home to one of the finest Martial Arts studios in America. Offering a variety of Martial Arts, taught by experienced instructors, it is a gem of opportunity for anyone interested in studying one or many Martial Arts.This wonderful facility is home to world class Judo players who compete at all levels of the sport, including the Olympics. Also available for study are Aikido and Ryukyu Kempo. Kin-Tora is somewhat unique compared to other martial arts schools in that it offers several different styles of martial arts rather than just one, and in addition, has a weight room. There is also a lending library of videotapes and books. It is run more in the style of a club, rather than a solely for profit business.
The typical martial arts studio in the Western New York area charges $100 or more per month to learn one style of martial art. Kin-Tora is priced at $85 per month and offers three different styles. A student can participate in 1, 2 or all 3 styles if they choose, plus weights, all for one price.
Owner and President
Traditional values, modern instruction
Nicholas Rastelli II
Nicholas Rastelli II began studying Judo in 1975 under the instruction of his uncles Tony and Marty Grisanti who started Kin-Tora Judo Club in 1974. Nicholas took over Kin-Tora after the passing of Tony Grisanti in 2014. Judo has been a family affair, a core activity for the large and close knit Grisanti and Rastelli clan of parents, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, etc. Everyone in the family participated, with many earning their black belts, and consistently winning tournaments. . A club with a family atmosphere. Soon, Jujitsu and Aikido were included. Most students have the time and energy for only one martial arts style. However, there are several enthusiasts who participate in 2 or 3 styles.
Respect in every class
Clear technical progression
Youth and adult pathways
Community-centered training
The team behind the mat
Our instructors and training leaders are committed to helping every student improve with patience, structure, and high standards. They guide classes with technical care while building a culture of encouragement and accountability.
★★★★★
“At Kintora, training is about more than technique. It is about showing up with respect, working with discipline, and growing together as a community.”
Kintora Training Philosophy
Discipline, confidence, and community
Kintora Judo and Martial Arts Center