shihan mary beth briggs

Born and raised in Roanoke, Virginia, Shihan Mary Beth Briggs began her martial arts journey at the remarkable age of 47 in 2008. What started as a new challenge quickly became a lifelong passion and a defining chapter of her life.

In an extraordinary achievement, Shihan Briggs made history in Kidokime-ryu Karate-do as the first woman ever promoted to Black Belt in the style. Over the past 17 years, she has become an integral leader within the Kidokime-ryu family, embodying the true spirit of the martial arts both on and off the training floor.

Shihan Briggs quickly discovered that authentic martial arts extend far beyond punching and kicking. Through dedicated training under the guidance of Soke Bobby Briggs — the greatest influence on her journey — she embraced martial arts as a complete way of life. The discipline, focus, and values she cultivated continue to shape every aspect of her daily life. Today, she proudly passes that knowledge on as an instructor, teaching children ages 5 to 9 and inspiring the next generation with the same lessons that transformed her.

Rank & Credentials

- 5th Degree Black Belt – Kidokime-ryu Karate  

- 1st Degree Black Belt – Okinawa-te Karate  

Notable Accomplishments

Shihan Briggs has earned widespread recognition for her excellence in teaching, leadership, and contributions to the martial arts community:

- 2025 Japanese/American Karate Instructor of the Year, International Action Martial Arts Hall of Fame  

- 2023 Esteemed Elite Warrior and Inductee, Action Martial Arts Hall of Honors  

- 2023 Cynthia Rothrock Martial Arts Changing Lives Biography Book Edition

- 2023 AMAA Who’s Who in the Martial Arts Legends Award 

- Multiple honors in 2022, including the AMAA Changing Lives Legacy Award (featuring GM Bill “Superfoot” Wallace), Outstanding Achievement in the Martial Arts, and several Hall of Honors inductions  

- 2019 Karate Instructor of the Year, Martial Arts Legends Hall of Fame  

She is a recognized Ladies of the PKA Worldwide honoree, an undefeated Kata Champion and Grand Champion, and has been featured in numerous martial arts books and magazines. Shihan Briggs has also authored six martial arts articles.

Professional Affiliations

- Professional Karate Association (PKA)  

- American Martial Arts Alliance (AMAA)  

With grace, perseverance, and unwavering dedication, Shihan Mary Beth Briggs stands as a trailblazer, mentor, and inspiration — proving it is never too late to pursue excellence and make a lasting impact.