Martial Arts Schools near Newton Highlands

“Calvin Chin's Martial Arts Academy came to my company to help celebrate the Lunar New Year with their lion dance. We filled three floors of lobby space with our employees watching the performance and excitedly engaging with the lion. The way the lion interacted with the audience together with the music from the beating drums created such a fun and memorable experience for our employees. Thank you!“

“Bobby is a great instructor! He is incredibly patient with younger kids and truly understands how to work with them at their own pace. He takes the time to make new students feel comfortable and welcomed, which makes such a difference. Highly recommend his classes for any parent looking for a supportive and encouraging environment!“

“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.“

“I dropped in for an open mat, and it was great! People were friendly, facilities were clean, and the rolls were good.“

“I’ve been coming to this gym for about a year now, and it has completely transformed how I feel about fitness. Grayson has been my main personal trainer, and he’s genuinely exceptional — consistently prepared, incredibly knowledgeable, and always able to strike that perfect balance between pushing me and supporting me. He pays attention to the details, adjusts sessions based on how I’m feeling that day, and explains the “why” behind every movement. Training with him has made me stronger, more confident, and way more consistent with my routine than I ever thought I’d be.

I’ve also had a few sessions with Chi and Aidan, and each of them brings something unique to the table. Chi, who’s also the owner, deserves a special mention. He’s incredibly kind, patient, and genuinely cares about every person who walks in. You can feel that the community and atmosphere here come directly from his leadership and personality.

The gym is clean, welcoming, and never overcrowded. Workouts are tailored, effective, and actually enjoyable. After a year here, I genuinely look forward to training and feel better than ever.

Couldn’t recommend this place more — if you’re looking for real personal training with trainers who truly care, this is the spot“

“As someone with severe learning impairments, I can truly say that this place has really helped me significantly in my life. Not just through the lessons I’ve learned but the consistent encouraging and positive reinforcement to never give up and keep moving forward. Not just A place to train martial arts, but a place Where you feel welcome and motivated“

“I started training here about 4 years ago, with no background in Martial Arts. One of the best decisions I have made. The training is amazing and you see progress really quickly. Master Kim is incredibly knowledgeable and pays great attention to detail, which makes all the difference. The community at the school is also very tight, with everyone helping each other.

Highly recommend!!“

“Amazing institute. It is an honor for my family to be trained by Master Kim and his team. Values such discipline, precision and strength are instilled every lesson. Location is also very convenient.“

“Sensei Bobby is an excellent instructor. My daughter has gained a lot of valuable self-defense skills and her confidence has grown tremendously thanks to his outstanding teaching. The Little Dragons classes are perfect for kids. They get a great work out and learn a lot. If you're thinking about enrolling your kids in martial arts classes, I HIGHLY recommend the Kids Martial Arts program at AMAC.“

“it's the only thing my 7 year old has stuck to. He loves coming and all the instructors are amazing with the kids!!“

“Would recommend this place for a variety of reasons: it's a relatively supportive environment; right now as of October 25, 2024, their ju-jitsu class has a reasonable level of participants, so you'll find practitioners of varying skill level. For kickboxing, it's a cardio-demanding martial art so expect to prepare yourself to be sweating. Some tips from someone who has been going for over 7 months for kickboxing: Buy hand-wraps either on Amazon or at the dojo, gloves, a water bottle and when you get in there, if you plan on sticking it out for a while, ask to be put in their email system so in the case that the dojo is closed ahead of time, you'd know. The website schedule isn't as fully up-to-date, it's better if you email them for an updated schedule. Currently it's $120 per martial art per month, but there have been some exceptions here and there, it's better if you speak with them in person/on the phone for financial payment clarification. I can talk forever with a bunch of other things but this is too long already. Have fun!“

“Sifu Lindsay creates an environment where everyone is welcomed, respected, and encouraged to grow. Every session offers something new for learners at all levels.“

“I have been going here for a couple of years and I love it. I was initially set to do a trial class on my own but I brought my fiance with me and he took to it as well. Having a chance to learn martial arts skills not only on my own but with my partner has not only improved both of our fitness and discipline, but it has made our connection better as well. If you are looking for a good martial arts school to go to, you should definitely go here!“

“Imagine a martial art studio with zero macho BS, just wonderful human beings of all stripes & types enjoying a high quality and effective level of instruction in a truly fun and caring environment.

Great for adults & kids, there are a lot of students, but this is also clearly a secret gem that, if more people knew about, could easily blow up twice as big as it already is. I'm floored. And not for nothing, Kung Fu AND Tai Chi are freaking beautiful (and empowering) - at the end of class it feels better than yoga ever did (just my personal take - martial arts doesn't just strike a pose, it MOVES).

Davis Square Martial Arts is also terrific for all ages, the studio is very comfortably intergenerational (I'm 49), which I think is quite rare and special. Got an injury or limitation? They will remember and always try to work with it.

Gain balance, posture, a reinvigorated sense of your own movement, strength, and yeah, a splash of extra calm confidence you maybe forgot was in there (or had gotten beaten up by the world a bit). The instructors aren't overtly trying to be inspiring per se, they just show up authentically, and give, and it just happens organically. How cool is that.“

“My child has been taking classes here for a month now and she loves it. It’s such a good outlet to learn manners and body control. Mr. Charles and the other instructors are so good with the kids and I’ve been pleased every time we have gone.“

“Great atmosphere for adults, children and families. High level senior instructors who care about the art and passing it on properly.“

“I recommend it. A pleasant and professional place with a lot of discipline and security, and good teaching.“

“Amazing teaching style. The sensei’s here are great teachers. This is just amazing.-PJ“

“Our son loves sensei Brandan! We sense that Sensei understands the children development, he is fun and full of humor while being strict of having class expectations! We often say “what Sensi Brandan talked during taekwondo class today?” when our son forgets the polite words, it often works!
Our son runs a lot and shakes off a lot of energy at Taekwondo class. So far this is his favorite class
On top of that, Sensi Brandan is flexible with schedule changes, life happens!
We strongly recommend if your sweet little one needs to run off steam“

“? Huge thanks to Grandmaster Jay and the entire team at JS US Taekwondo! ?

We are incredibly grateful for your 35 years of dedication to martial arts and for guiding William on his journey. In just 10 months, he has achieved his black belt, and this accomplishment wouldn’t have been possible without your expert coaching, encouragement, and wisdom.

As a 7th-degree black belt, Grandmaster Jay is not only a master of technique but also a true embodiment of the spirit of Taekwondo. His leadership and influence extend far beyond the mat, shaping students into confident, disciplined, and courageous individuals.

JS US Taekwondo is an outstanding school where students learn respect, resilience, and bravery. The rigorous training has helped William grow stronger, both physically and mentally. The entire coaching team here is phenomenal, creating an environment where students thrive and develop not just as martial artists, but as individuals.

Thank you, Grandmaster Jay, for being an amazing mentor and role model! We deeply appreciate everything you do! ??

#ThankYou #BlackBelt #MartialArts #BestCoach #JSUSTaekwondo #Respect #Discipline #Confidence“

“A perfect place for kids to learn. Tiny Tigers is fun to get the youngest kids excited about learning and discipline. The next level classes are rigorous but forgiving to set a standard without discouraging new learners.

Would recommend to any family.“

“So happy we found One Step Beyond! My boys (6 and 9) tried soccer, baseball, flag football, but nothing “stuck” until we discovered karate back in March 2021. Fast forward to two classes a week (soon to be 4 ?), 2 belt tests and now a competition team/weapons (all dull, nothing sharp here), my boys couldn’t be happier. Sensei Marie and Sensei Erin are wonderful with the kids and it’s a wide range of all ages and backgrounds. I can honestly say that karate has also taught my boys discipline, fitness, patience and self esteem. I highly recommend One Step Beyond!“

“Mr. Davis is an Amazing & deeply knowledgeable individual. His teachings give you a full rounded picture of the progression of Japanese martial arts & applicable tools for modern day situations.“

“A great community first and then a martial arts school that teaches and fosters respect. My oldest child has been attending the school for 8 years and the youngest for 4 years now and they have both learned the values and rewards of discipline and respect while learning self defense and practicing skills and making friendships that will last a lifetime. What truly sets the school apart from other martial art's schools around it, is that it is taught by adults who volunteer their time and effort and do not get paid for it. You only pay the gym for the access to to gym premises and that fee goes only to the gym and not to the Cambridge Tang Soo Do, so it is not based in profits but simply on the passion of good hearted people. I urge people to come and see and learn more about it.“

“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.“