Elena Grinenko
Black Belt Instructor
Summary of Qualifications
- Nidan (Second Degree Blackbelt)
Karate Biography
Elena began studying the Martial Arts in Russia when she was a university student. Her first discipline was Wushu. After practicing Wushu for two years, she then joined a different karate school that taught Shotokan Karate. However, after only half a years of training, she had to take a leave of absence because her first child was born. When her second child was born, she started to practice yoga. Then in the year 2000, Elena moved to America and brought her children to train at the Okaigan dojo, under Chief Instructor Sensei Mary Crawford. After one month she decided to join as well, and has been training at Okaigan Dojo ever since. To improve her knowledge about human body, core strength, movement and flexibility, she enrolled in many classes at De Anza and Foothill College such as stretching, massage, and dance classes. Elena also enjoys playing volleyball, hiking, dancing, skiing, swimming, camping and other activities. For the last few years she has been passionate about yoga and has taken many camps, seminars and has now been certified as a Yoga teacher. Elena teaches adult karate and Yoga classes at the Okaigan Dojo. Elena has a Master degree in Mathematics from Voronezh University, Russia, and works as a Software Quality Engineer.