Martial Arts Schools near Countryside

“I didn't visit all the gyms, but I did a few. It's the best for it's purpose in the area for sure“

“Happy to have 2 my boys with ATA, good dedicated coaches (they really care!), great program. I strongly recommend!“

“We found Flying V Martial Arts one winter break by doing an online search, looking for a place that could help our 3 year old with focus and discipline. Though shy during her trial session, our daughter quickly warmed up to her weekly lessons. We began seeing changes with her discipline. She was motivated to get as many good weekly progress reports as she could. In class she was loud, proud, and strong. She is now 7 years old and just got her blue belt. We've done other extracurricular programs, but no coach/teacher has cared as much about her well-being and character as Master Vinson. He is always energetic and gives 110% to his students. This is a fantastic place for kids.“

“Uflacker gives world class jiu jitsu, but what isn’t advertised is its world class people. They’ll teach you how to take your opponents back and have your training partners back when they struggle. There is more to learn here than just jiu jitsu.“

“We are so pleased with the program. My son has built skills in focus and confidence as well as physical skills. The staff is amazing. They are always checking in to make sure you are satisfied with the classes and to see where they can improve. I would recommend TBK to everyone!“

“Loved ❤️ this presentation by George at Lombard Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association meeting! So many smart ideas for self defense.“

“Being an older female adult taekwondo learner, I felt intimidated to start as a new student. After I joined a try out session with the adult group, I found that the instructors at Strive are very friendly and patient. They encouraged me to not push myself too hard at the beginning and just do the best I can.

I attended a different martial arts school for a while but quit due to the pandemic. That other school was much less patient and had strict policies and contracts, so I did not want to return there.

The people at Strive are really nice and care about their students. I’m enjoying the workout and the stress relief. I’m especially happy that I am learning self-defense so that I can defend myself, if needed.

I encourage all adults to join up to be a better you!“

“We love Masters Kim & Kang! They are wonderful with the kiddos and know how to teach discipline, self-defense and listening skills in a fun way. Our 6 year old son is always excited for his 2 weekly sessions and looks forward to be in a positive environment. Thank you both!“

“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to you for the wonderful training and support you have provided to my 6-year-old daughter. Since joining your club, she has not only made great progress in her Taekwondo skills but has also grown in confidence, discipline, and focus.

Your dedication, patience, and encouragement have played a big part in helping her achieve her recent goals. It is truly inspiring to see how much she has learned and how proud she feels about her accomplishments. The positive environment and expert guidance at your club have made a lasting impact on her, and I am deeply grateful for that.

Thank you again for your commitment to your students and for helping them grow not just as martial artists, but as individuals.“

“Very professional training, very happy with outcomes for my son for the past 10 years highly recommended.“

“It's more then just learning about TKD. It's about the value of hard work, respect and discipline. The master's really care about the kids and making them successful.“

“Amazing place for your kid! Watching my 5-year-old grow in listening, confidence, and strength has been truly heartwarming. The Taekwondo instructors are so patient, encouraging, and kind. They help kids believe in themselves while teaching discipline and respect in a fun, positive environment. I’m so grateful we found this place—highly recommend!
It feels amazing being part of such a great group of people! Thank you for all you are doing for our kids!

Vuk’s mom :)“

“Absolutely one of the best martial arts teams in the area. Always welcoming and as an instructor myself I can tell they know what they are doing. Freaking phenomenal team.“

“This has been a great place to learn basic principles applying across several arts as an uninitiated beginner.

Thanks for not beating us maestro! /jk“

“The fighters and regular peeps of all ages training together so everyone gets better.Coach Mac and Richardo rock“

“Joe, Caleb, Pat and all of the instructors are welcoming, helpful, modest and inclusive. Your peer students are also helpful. I'm always learning something new with each class. My initial plan was to just learn the fundamentals but I'm planning on staying long-term for the value of the instructions, repeating good habits and sparring/rolling with peers. The gym also has plenty of space so it never feels crowded especially compared to other gyms. Amazing place, thanks Joe and team!“

“A good school with not only fun in mind, but Taekwondo skills as well. While the majority of people enrolled in this place are mostly young children, there are plenty of older children, and some adults. This place teaches all ages, and does it quite well.

Masters Kim and John work to provide a safe environment for young ones, and facilitate learning there. Master Kim is an excellent authority figure, but at the same time can be delicate in situations. Master John will usually take charge of the classes, and is good at understanding when is the right time for humor. Both are very skilled in the art of Taekwondo. They teach an important concept, that Taekwondo should only be used for self-defense.

The place also offers classes for Hapkido, another martial art. There is also a Demo team available for enrollment to students that have the red belt or higher. Demo team develops and practices fight scenes, martial arts forms, and an overall action-packed performance, which is performed at the start of belt tests. Tournaments and Taekwondo events – usually involved with the World Taekwondo Federation – are advertised here, good for the kid who really wants to take his Taekwondo experience to the next level.

Last but not least, Black Belt Excellence offers Ninja Night, a good 3 hour funorama for kids. You bring nerf guns and a snack, and of course money to pay for the event, and it’s basically a good time for kids. Good if you want a night out with your spouse. Its popular with – and to a small degree, oriented for – younger kids.

Overall, this is a flexible and wonderful place to learn taekwondo.

EDIT FEB. 2026: Master John has not worked at B.B.E. for five years. I was a student for several years, but have not been a student for several years. I was a student at the time of posting this Google Maps review. B.B.E never employed me.“

“My 2 boys have completed a year with Master So. I have seen them grow with skills and confidence. We are staying here and do not plan on changing for a very long time! Thumbs up for Master So. ?“

“My child has been a student here for about 5 years, so it's safe to say she loves it here! So do I! Not only does she receives Martial Arts instruction, but learns important life lessons as well--things like not giving up, practice makes better, and working towards then achieving your goals! Master Garcia and the other instructors are truly dedicated and gifted! I know that my child is learning values here that will serve her well as she grows up and making lifelong friendships along the way!“

“This gym is a nice one it has all you really need, and it is quiet. This would be a 5 star if they had an incline bench in better shape.“

“I trained with Garza Shihan for years and had to move away. I miss the warm and welcoming atmosphere. He’s so good with kids and the space is safe for women as you can tell by his many female students who have been around for years. I feel better living alone after training with him.“

“Master are extremely knowledgeable and professionals, if you want you’re love ones to have a good discipline this is the right place“