Martial Arts Schools near Darien

“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!“

“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 :)“

“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!“

“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“

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

“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.“

“My daughter has been attending classes for over 3 years and loves this school over others we tried. Very thorough instruction and very caring atmosphere. And fun and engaging! We love it here!“

“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.“

“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“

“We have positive experience with CKC and with all the coaches. What we like about the Sensei is that he is gentle and tough when it comes to discipline which was the main reason we put my nephew in Karate. He has earned brown/black belt and working towards his black belt. Thanks to CKC Sensei and other coaches.“

“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.“

“We’ve been attending for about a year now, and I can’t say enough good things. My kids have grown so much in confidence, discipline, and strength. Master Yun and the entire staff are wonderful—supportive, patient, and motivating. We also recently hosted a birthday party here, and it was fantastic! The instructors kept kids of all ages engaged, and everyone had a great time. I highly recommend both the classes and the party venue!“

“My Son and Daughter takes classes here. Great Place, Great Instructor.
Kosta Shamata
Luxara Real Estate LLC“

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

“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.“