Martial Arts Schools near Billerica

“My daughter started as a Little Ninja almost 2 years ago. She was the smallest in her class, she couldn’t even get over the jumps in the obstacle course, but that didn’t stop her from trying. Sensei Steve made class fun and kept challenging her in ways that were attainable but not easy. Sensei Janine helped build her confidence and stay safe during games by running along side her until she could handle herself. Sensei Dawn’s calm and quiet demeanor made her feel comfortable and at ease. Sensei AJ came along a little later and gave Layla someone a little closer to her age to look up too. The Dojo is not just a katate class it is a community that helps kids and adults build strength, confidence, discipline, and perseverance. My daughter is still one of the smallest in her class but now she is also one of the highest ranking. My little guy just started the new Playful Pandas class a few months ago. He is my wild child. He bounces off everything, can’t always pay attention, causes distractions and is more or less your typical 3-4 year old boy. The Dojo team were getting more and more request for younger kids to join but they knew from previous experience that even the Little Ninja class was not the right fit for most 3-4 year olds attention spance and emotional range. So unlike most karate classes that tell you to call back in a year or two, the Dojo created a whole new class just for them. Sensei Brinna brings great energy and a background in child education pair that with Sensei Dawn’s genteel touch and black belt knowledge and you have a powerhouse for little learners. They are still teaching the kids the same core skills and techniques that the older kids work on but in smaller doses with a slightly more playful approach. The biggest difference is that a parent or gaurdian can and is encouraged to get on the floor with them. This was a game changer for my kid. Sometimes I “run”around the obstacle course with him or do the races with him. Other times I am just an extra support system/ cheering squad on the mat but either way he feels like I am a part of what he is doing and that gets him excited and helps him stay focused. Every class he attends he has an opportunity to earn a sticker and eventually earn a prize. He has had multiple days were he did not earn a sticker for various reasons but Sensei Brinna and Sensei Dawn always talked to him kindly about why and even though he would be upset in the moment he would always be excited for the next class. Discipline and perseverance can be taught at any age with the right instructors. The Dojo offered free classes for moms in May for Mother’s Day, plus a special selfdefense class. My daughter got supper excited and encouraged me to go. I was a little hesitant at first thinking I was too old to start learning karate, I was going to look silly being a white belt at 39, (insert all the other fears and anxieties). But my kids were so excited about it and by now I knew the Senseis enough to know I was in good company. The selfdefense class was so fun and there were a few other first timers there with me. My first regular class I was the only beginner walking on the mat with a handful of black belts, one brown belt, and two green belts. I was intimidated to say the least, for about one minute, then everyone said hello and welcomed me to the class with honest excitement. When I got a little lost or confused there was always someone there to help me. No egos, just a community with genuine passion for the art and the desire to hone their craft while enjoying a few laughs. I left with a few bruises, some sore muscles, and a big smile. I loved it! I have been going for over three months now and I look forward to every class. They ran the same special for Dads in the month of June. Our daughter and I convinced my husband to go and of course he had a great experience. He especially loved the weapons class! Even though he has not been able to continue classes he now has a better understanding of what our kids do and they get even more excited to teach him their new moves at home. I “

“I went in for the Sunday open mat and the people were very friendly, the mats and shower were clean, and the rolls were good! Will definitely be going back again.“

“Fenix has a variety of excellent coaches who seem to genuinely care about each student's progression and safety. I've learned so much since I started here 4 years ago. Students are respectful, safety-minded, and dedicated to the pursuit of excellence. Recommended.“

“Tiger An taekwondo is a great place to develop strength and focus, the instructors truly teach student to be confident. The environment full of respectful and encouraging.“

“ATA Tewksbury has been wonderful for my 6-7 year-old son. During the 1 year, he learned not only Taekwondo, but also discipline and self-confidence. The instructors are truly the best! patient, engaging, and great with kids. We would have loved to continue, but we had to move to a different town. Highly recommend!“

“This dojo is spectacular, sensei Gabriel is patient, competent and very special with children.“

“Shihan Colleen is the best! My daughter has been attending her classes for over two years, and we couldn’t be happier. She is not only an outstanding instructor, but also a wonderful role model for the kids. She is also very flexible and accommodating with schedule conflicts. My daughter has gained so much confidence and genuinely looks forward to class every week. I highly recommend New Generation Martial Arts!“

“Steve Nugents karate Institute has 2 main karate schools or called "dojos", this one in Winchester and the main one on Cambridge Street in Burlington, Mass. They structure their programs around safety and awareness, overall respect, and good basic karate self defense skills. Their instructors led by Grandmaster Nugent are super trained, even in first aid and cpr, which I thought was excellent. They are super passionate and attentive toward their student and actually are quite caring, which I have never found in my searching for quality karate schools. Definitely check them out... I am very impressed !“

“This is an amazing karate academy with Thai chi kobudo and shorin rue and goju ruI had so much fun and they except all ages over 3 years.“

“My son loves going to his martial arts class! We appreciate and value Sr. Master Landrum and the team’s patience and welcoming environment with all children and families!“

“Great teachers, great master. Started when I was not but around 10 years old and continued it for a great portion of my life. Master Shin has been nothing but caring and kind, as well as supportive and honest. Even after I have taken a bit of a leave from his business he still continues to help me to this day. I am truly grateful for everything he has done for me and I could not recommend a better Teacher and master to anyone else.“

“Kwon's Taekwondo is a special place for me. My family and I have been trained there for over 7 years. In that time Kwon's has made the cover of TKD Times twice. We've earned our black belts and have met some of our closest friends there. If exercise, gaining self esteem, and learning to respect others are what you want for your child, join Kwon's TKD.“

“Love the teaching from Master Ku. All 3 of my boys loves it and seeing them grow and improve in just short 6 months they’ve been there made me as a parent very proud. Master Ku didn’t just taught them the techniques but also teach them How to be a better person and be respectful at home and everywhere they go.“

“I have been wanting to try martial arts for the last 6 years but life got in the way, as if often does. Recently, I realized that NOW was the time to try something that would not only help me with my physical health but mental health as well. When googling 'adult karate' in my neighborhood, I was pleasantly surprised to see a dojo close to me with very positive reviews. That was just a few months ago and I truly can't comprehend how much Sensei Rocky DiRico's dojo and his teachings has changed my life for the better. Sensei Rocky's dojo attracts exceptionally kind people (adults AND children) of all walks of life. The is a direct correlation to Sensei Rocky and the energy he puts into his teachings and just life in general. Since joining Sensei Rocky's dojo and taking karate lessons weekly, I find myself worrying less about things out of my control and just feeling mentally healthier and happier. I had heard many positive stories on how martial arts has helped children but had no idea how much it would help me as an adult as well. A huge thank you to Sensei Rocky!“

“Our son Michael started at Elite Freestyle Karate in Arlington when he was just 6 years old. He’s now 14, earned his black belt a few years ago, and is still training and progressing toward his next degree. Looking back, enrolling him was one of the best decisions we’ve made as parents.

When he started, he was an impulsive kid who often ignored rules. The changes didn’t happen overnight — they were gradual, steady, and real. Over the years, we saw him become more focused, more organized, and much more disciplined. That discipline carried over into school, homework routines, and even other activities like swimming. Karate didn’t just improve his physical fitness — it helped shape his character.

The sensei truly deserve recognition. They treat students with respect, set high standards, and genuinely care about each child’s growth. They are supportive but firm, and they consistently reinforce the values of discipline, responsibility, and perseverance. The black belt tests were demanding — especially during COVID, when everything became harder — but the instructors guided the students through those challenges with consistency and integrity.

When the Arlington dojo closed, we didn’t hesitate to continue in Winchester. We now drive three times a week because the culture and instruction are worth it. Michael never wanted to quit — and that says a lot about the environment they’ve created.

If you have a young child — especially one who needs help channeling energy and learning discipline — I would absolutely recommend Elite Freestyle Karate. For our family, it has been an incredible seven-year journey, and it continues.“

“Not sure what we'd do without Green Dragons. It has changed our son's life. As a result he is more confident, he can now speak in front of groups far better than his peers, he can cook tasty food, and he's learning to get enjoyment out of hard work like weeding gardens or taking care of farm animals. Where else can you get such an amazing mix of experiences and character development? So thankful to Master Mike for building this place.“

“Rising Storm Training Academy is a wonderful place for kids to learn the art of Martial Arts. Newly opened and offering great session times for working parents! Nathan, the head instructor and owner, has a real skill for teaching and engaging kids that can lose focus. The rates are very reasonable to. He offeres a free introductory lesson to try out. My son is having a super time and learning the art so quickly directly because of Nathans teaching.“

“Incredible Karate School. Sensei Nathan is the best. He makes classes super fun while learning so much skills. My daughter has been thriving there.“

“Outstanding experience for kids. Taekwondo is one piece of the puzzle. Mr Defranzo care for the kids and show them respect. Through that he teaches them values and discipline. Priceless for kids.“