Martial Arts Schools near North Reading

“My son does really well at Cervizzis. Mainly because everyone is so wonderful! He even gets postcards sent home to him acknowledging him and his achievements. They really go above and beyond.“

“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.“

“From the start, the instructors created an environment that makes people want to step up. New students are treated like they have been part of the dojo for years with steady guidance, real patience, and a level of professionalism that sets the tone right away. The atmosphere is focused, supportive, and grounded in respect, and the dojo itself is kept immaculate.

The kids program is what first caught my attention. The way they build confidence, discipline, and leadership in their young students is remarkable. I saw the changes in my stepson almost immediately in how he carried himself, how he listened, how he tried. It was so well done that I ended up joining too, and I have seen the results in my own training.

Authentic Karate earned that trust. They have built a space where people genuinely grow, and they do it through consistency, community, and excellent teaching.“

“Fun safe and hard Judo practice, technical randori partners, kind but tough teachers that are very expierienced, seasoned and practical. Overall very safe place and great competitive atmosphere for all levels. Amazing work with children and they're advanced classes look amazing. They are very skilled teachers and know how to get the best out of everyone, the nervousness goes away with time and self confidance boost from the children to the people up in age is fun to see.“

“Cervizzi's-Lynnfield has become a second home for my family. Both my 6 yr old and 4 yr old take classes here

The most transformative experience has been with my son. He is diagnosed with ADHD and has thrived here in ways I didn't expect. The intense focus on self-control and regulation that is built into their curriculum has been so impactful for him. The Senseis are masterful at balancing a disciplined, goal-oriented environment with a fun, warm, and highly supportive atmosphere.
​The results are so clear that my 4-year-old daughter, who has a very big personality, also signed up this summer! The program has been fantastic for her, too, as they dedicate so much time to her overall discipline and focus. The Senseis don't just teach kicks and punches; they instill the valuable life skills of respect, focus, and self-discipline in both our children.
​If you're looking for a martial arts studio that feels like a family while genuinely teaching kids how to be better people, this is the place.“

“I’ve had the pleasure of training at Gentle Art in Peabody, and I’m genuinely impressed. Nassib, the owner, leads with great passion and expertise, creating an environment that is both welcoming and highly professional. The coaching team is knowledgeable, and the focus on technique and respect for the art really stands out. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced, this gym is a fantastic place to grow your skills. Highly recommend!“

“My daughter has been going to Bruce McCorry’s for a few years and LOVES it!! They are very professional and really foster a sense of community, respect and self discipline. I highly recommend Bruce McCorry’s Martial Arts Academy !!“

“We love this place. They truly care about the kids while teaching respect for others and discipline.“

“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 !“

“I was in the children’s class for most of my childhood, and I moved onto the adult class almost two years ago. While I did learn in the children’s class and it was a fun thing to do as a kid, the adult class has given me a new appreciation for training. The training is very in depth and has increased my understanding of my body, my skills in class and in life, and has given me a great community of people. Highly recommend!“

“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!“

“My son started in September at just 5 years old, and the growth we’ve seen has been incredible. He has gained so much confidence in himself and truly looks forward to going each week.

Master O and Sensei Sean are both so kind, patient, and positive with the kids. They create an encouraging environment where children feel supported while learning discipline and respect. We are so grateful for the impact they’ve had on our son and highly recommend Master O’s to any family looking for a great karate program.“

“I started with the 2 week trial and it was great. I've gone on to register for more. The instructors are excellent and are helping me get up to speed. I love it.“

“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.“

“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.“

“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.“

“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.“

“Lemme tell ya the best class ever! I went for the first time to punch out about a month ago and I go every Monday & Wednesday. The energy of the staff and sensei are so supportative but you walk out dripping sweat. I was always so nervous to do a class but I felt comfortable right away, I joined Sensei's karate class as well. The class works for every one! sensei makes it easy for you to adjust to harder or easier workouts based on your ability. I'm so happy I found this class I live all the way in Medford and it's totally worth the commute I recommend this work out studio for anyone and everyone, you belong here :)“

“Wonderful local Karate lessons. Very clean and always willing to accommodate the kids and clients!“