About Dinoto Karate Center (Action Karate Mt Laurel)
Dinoto Karate Center offers high-quality martial arts instruction suitable for people of all ages, helping students reach their full potential. The center’s "School Safe/Street Safe" and "Character Training & Development" programs emphasize self-defense, health, fitness, and life skills in a welcoming and positive environment. The instructors not only teach martial arts techniques but also focus on building character traits such as respect, humility, integrity, teamwork, perseverance, and mental resilience. This supportive atmosphere is designed to motivate students, whether they are beginners or more experienced, and encourages personal growth beyond martial arts skills. The center’s emphasis on character development and life skills inspires students to become confident, respectful, and successful members of their community.
When we first signed up for karate, our main goal was for our son to work on strengthening his core. As a former Nic-U preemie, this had been a struggle for him. PT at school had helped some, but we needed more than just that. Master Liciaga greeted us with his friendly, energetic presence and offered to introduce my son to karate. The first one-on-one lesson followed by two trial classes had us hooked. Master Liciaga encourages all students while challenging them to push themselves to be more than thought they could be.
It was not easy, but the instructors patiently guided my son. Repeated movements allowed him to refine his techniques while working on things such as balance at the same time. Master Magill has this magic power that allows him to know what students need as individuals as well. He addresses those individual needs throughout each karate class. Sometimes it’s fine-tuning technique, other times it’s confidence, while still other times it’s understanding complicated moves. He gets to know each student and makes them feel seen. While success in karate isn’t always linear, Master Magill’s guidance given along the way during times of my son’s frustration was essential to success. His persistence paid off as my son who loves karate has recently earned his black belt.
Yes, Master Liciaga and Master Magill are the heart of Dinoto Karate. The other instructors have learned from the best and connect so well with students. They laugh with them as they teach. They work with students as young as three up through adults. No matter your age or your current ability, they will help you grow. They prepare students for tournaments and build confidence. Karate can be hard work, but Dinoto Karate knows having a good time is vital as well. The summer of fun with spirit days and interesting challenges keep things lighter. They offer parents’ nights out, participate in community events and host buddy days and open houses.
The sense of community at this school makes it feel more like family. Parents feel as welcome as the students. The investment in the lives of the students outside of karate allows them to feel more valued. The sense of belonging shows as students help each other in class, as they lead with confidence, and as they grow together. I would 1000% recommend that anyone considering karate come to Dinoto Karate Center at Route 38 and Ark Road to find the place that will become a way of life. You won’t regret it!
Dinoto Karate Center makes you feel like family and at the same time the Instructor’s work there students hard. I love the stories about life experiences which help to instill a good Attitude. Master McGill is good as an accomplished Black Belt Instructor and breaks down every technique slowly to make sure the students understand. As a father of a student that has been there for several years . . Aaron has grown and had to work hard for his well deserved Black Belt. I looked into other programs before enrolling My son. This was our choice.we made the right choice.
Our son has been attending Dinoto Karate Center/Action Karate Mt. Laurel for a few months, and it’s been an incredible experience! He's enthusiastic about his training, and the social aspect has been a huge benefit. The staff is thoughtful, caring, and welcoming, and their classes are well-structured to keep each student engaged, focused, and active.
Our son has anxiety, which can be very challenging, so we were unsure how he’d adjust. Master Liciaga warmly greeted us as we walked in and gave our son his full attention, taking his concerns seriously and responding in a genuine and comforting way. Our son then met Master Magill, who quickly picked up...read full review