Martial Arts Schools near Kentwood

“Very nice facility and instructors . Owner Rick spends a-lot of time with each of the kids. He mixes in fun before the lessons so the kids stay engaged. Brad , another instructor, has a very kind and patient demeanor as he teaches. Nick really responded well, and he’s looking forward to his next lesson. Seeing him get a passion for learning the martial arts makes me happy, as I feel it gets you ready for meeting goals and challenges later.The kids there are taught self discipline and grit at this dojo. They are expected to meet challenges head on, and accomplish their goals. You might see a few push ups scattered around here and there, if they aren’t on time, for example.I noticed that there were quite a few younger ones, that have earned, tested and advanced up to a lot of different colored belts. I can’t wait to see my 11 year old(almost 12), put the work in and move up. His starting belt is white right now.As a Mom, I like the self defense part of the program. Never hurts to know a bit of that, in these days and times.Highly recommend … I think this is great for all ages and the price is very reasonable in my opinion.“

“When looking for a great place to learn karate, look no further than Original Okinawa Karate! I recently had the pleasure of visiting this dojo and was blown away by the quality of instruction and the welcoming atmosphere. The instructors are top notch, they are experienced and knowledgeable. Sensei Mayne who specializes in the style of Shidokan Shorin Ryu, takes the time to get to know each student and their individual needs, and he is always willing to answer questions and provide extra help when needed. Give this dojo a chance and you will love it here“

“Staff is knowledgeable and caring, students are treated more like a friends than clientele.“

“I have already left a google review, but I wanted to make one extra review, because I know first-hand how other parents can relate and struggle with the same. My son has autism, and has been diagnosed as having a comorbid diagnosis of an anxiety disorder. Recently, his anxiety spun out of control, and we found out that he was receiving medication that was counteracting what it was supposed to do and causing his increase in anxiety. He is 11-years-old, and it was gut-wrenching to watch as a mother, and extremely disappointing when his anxiety held him back from completing the requirements to test for his next belt. After his doctor's appointment one day we stopped by the grand rapids location and was able to talk with Sensi Sasa. Sasa sat down with me and listened to the struggles I was having with my son and took interest in what the medical plan was for my son as well as the psychological plan. Sensi Sasa cared, and for a mother with a child with special needs, that was something I so desperately needed...especially at that time! Sensi Sasa cared and reassured me that my son would still be able to test and would be able to make up any activities that were required for testing for his next belt. Sensi Sasa said, "This is what I want for this organization...not to just teach our students kicks and punches, but to help them gain confidence and strength both physically and emotionally." Sasa asked what to look for in my son when he's becoming overly anxious and reassured me he understood and was there to help. I've felt like I've been screaming on the inside for years to get doctors and teachers to just listen to me. I truly wish there were more teachers like Sensi Sasa out there, because the care he gave by just listening to me and empathizing with me while also encouraging my children is a gift that is beyond priceless. If you have any apprehension and/or doubt in enrolling your child, take it from me...it's beyond worth every cent, time, and energy. The encouragement and self-confidence your child will get in return will be miles more than what they will receive at their daily brick-and-mortar school sessions. (P.S. I'm not in CA..not sure why yelp places my location in CA.)“

“Craig is a knowledgeable and expert instructor. The people who train at the academy are friendly and open. Everyone is helpful.“

“I worked with Jay during his early days with Black Belt TKD. He is committed to his students and dedicated the art.“

“Grand Master Rick and the other teachers have such patience while teaching the kids. Even in a bigger class your child gets the 1on1 attention feel where and when they need it. Watching the confidence level of both of my children grow with each class has been amazing. We look forward to continuing!“