SDSS Martial Arts of Westport

After having our son enrolled at 2 other karate studios in 2017 and finding that neither were a good longterm fit, we found our way to SDSS. The other studios just didn't feel right. We were looking for a facility where we could see our family for years to come. Our (now) 5 year old son is obsessed with martial arts, and the other studios were lacking structure, community, and that perfect balance of both positivity and discipline. Mr. Alex (the main instructor) has a solid curriculum. The kids have fun, get a great workout, and learn about respect and focus. He does a great job at reminding the younger students to raise their hands before speaking, not interrupting others, and using their patience. Nearly everything Alex focuses on in the studio bleeds into how one needs to act within a community (general sense, school, etc.), and even within a family unit. While in martial arts your main focus is yourself, and working on your own personal best, Alex also touches on the importance teamwork with the kids. We also love how enrollment includes in just the group classes, but a weekly semi-private class as well. Our son has been enrolled at SDSS for nearly a year now, and I see no end in sight. In fact I've enrolled myself in the adult program. We're at the studio 4-5 per week. It's practically our 2nd home. SDSS in Westport is hands down the best martial arts studio in the area. We're really thankful for the sense of community that Alex has fostered at the studio, and the activities he has organized outside of class. (Summer water fight at the beach, camps, and even free parties.) Bonus: It's across the street from both Starbucks and Barnes & Noble. Great places to kill time on days when you need a little break while your kid is in class.

Alex and Ingrid just conducted a great birthday party for my 5-year-old son. They had 16 4-and-5-year-olds paying attention, learning some martial arts, and having tons of fun. They were very organized and made it super easy for me as the host. Parents keep coming up to me days later to tell me how much fun their child had. Highly recommend this for a party, even when most of the kids don't know any martial arts.

My 5 year old son goes to SDSS in Westport and loves his karate lessons with Zack. Zack has a great mixture of fun, structured learning, individualized approach and messaging about life skills such as listening, respect and trying your best.