Martial Arts Schools near Downers Grove

“We love TBK- It’s become a really great routine for our kids who are 4 and 6. The classes are fun and the instructors are wonderful but there are also worksheets the kids can complete at home that encourage them to get into the habit of helping around the house. They’re motivated by earning tapes for their belts and it’s helping us raise kids who contribute at home while they learn coordination and self control in class.“

“I don't have anything to compare it to but my 9 year old daughter enjoys her classes, they offer a good mix of times, and the instructors are engaging and passionate. Would recommend to families looking to get their kids in to martial arts.“

“Great place, great people. If your considering enrollment there's a completely free class to check out the place.“

“A fantastic place to learn karate and important life skills. The coaches are professional, supportive, and motivating. Highly recommend this academy.My son is really enjoying his classes ..“

“We love Master Jay! My kids 12 & 14 yrs old love coming here. They’ve gained confidence and focus. He seems to easily adapt to whatever learning style a child needs (adults too).
I love the flexibility that he offers to drop in to any class day.“

“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!“

“Great school that have a truly inclusive culture. They focus on balancing the traditional with modern day training concepts. Instructors are also great at adjusting training for each student.“

“Grand Master Kim is such a great teacher. It's such a great community here, honestly, this is going to be a highlight in my kids' childhood. Every time they come home from school, they have the biggest smiles on their faces. The respect my kids learned here has shaped them into better kids, classmates, and humans. Can't thank Grand Master Kim enough!“

“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.“

“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 :)“

“I always wanted to get into a combat sport but i was very nervous in going to the gym. I heard about Top Notch and i wanted to give it a try and i absolutely love it. The environment here is very welcoming, im able to train with people who have way more experience than me and they are good to work with especially since i dont have the same experience. Finding the right gear for me was also a little hard but Mac who is the owner has very good gear for good prices. Overall this gym is awesome and if you are someone like me who is nervous to start, i recommend coming to Top Notch and train with the best.“

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

“It's the WILDMAN
BATTLE CREEK ,MI.
I AM READY TO KICKBOX AT 61
MY RECORD NOW IS
27 FIGHTS 2 LOSSES 21 KNOCK OUTS
DOWN TO 160LBS FROM 287
AND I AM READY TO FIGHT ANYONE
I HAVE BEEN TRAINING DAILY SINCE 1989
LOOKING FORWARD FOR YOU TO STILL SPONSOR ME
THANK YOU
AND
GOD BLESS“

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

“Morgan and Diane (owners) are a pleasure to work with. When it comes to kids sports, they are knowledgeable and emphasize safety first for the little ones“