Martial Arts Schools near Glenshaw

“Great school and Master Dressel is a great teacher for kids and adults. Has both Tang Soo Do and Braizilian Jiu Jitsu. It is a great combination to learn for overall self-defense and martial arts in general.“

“I had a great time here during my short stay in Pittsburgh! I attended two classes followed by open mats. The style here is unique and challenging. I was happy to see a lot of colored belts as well as they really add to your growth in the sport. Great coaches and a welcoming environment overall! They never charged me a drop in fee either which is a plus because they have every right to.

Thank you for having me OSS!“

“My daughter is in her 3rd year with North Hills ATA and I cannot say enough good things about the program. She started as a Tiger where she learned the basics and what it means to be dedicate to her commitments. Even on the days when she’d rather play outside than go to class, she would put on her uniform and give it her best. A few months ago she advanced to Karate for kids. The first class was a bit of a culture shock as it became clear she was going to have to work even harder to achieve her goals. The path from Camo Recommended to Camo Decided was an adjustment. She needed to be more dedicated than before, work harder, and practice without instruction using videos at home to memorize her forms. I watched her face the disappointment of leaving class without that third stripe, and watched her sit quietly working through those feelings. She knew that her stripes weren’t going to be given to her, she had to earn them. She practiced and practiced, taking over the living room as we watched Master Wilson do Songahm 5 200 times. Her next class she was called to do her forms and nailed it. The pride she had in her achievement is more than I can ever ask for as a parent. She worked hard for what she wanted and she achieved her goals, receiving her Camo Belt Recommended last night. The North Hills ATA team teaches discipline with kindness. Their tactics and mission are consistent with every instructor. The focus is not solely on the development their taekwondo abilities, but who these kids are going to be when they grow up. My daughter has built immense confidence, learned the value of hard work, and that dedication leads to success. For that, I am eternally grateful.“

“My 9 year old enjoys himself quite a bit for an hour on Wednesday nights. Price is way reasonable.“

“I love the instructors here. You can tell how much love the black belts running the place have for the art and community by how the whole school is ran.“

“Our family couldn’t be happier with Gaddis Brothers Martial Arts. Our daughter has been training here for nearly two years. The growth we’ve witnessed has been remarkable, far beyond expectations, not just in her karate skills, but in her confidence, discipline, resilience, focus, self respect, and respect for others.

The instructors create an environment that is equally supportive and challenging, helping each student reach their potential while genuinely caring about who they are as individuals. Sensei John fosters the kind of growth that extends well beyond martial arts. His approach supports building character, perseverance, self-regulation, and confidence in ways that will serve our daughter throughout life by helping her orient who she is, appreciate her full potential, and generally how to be in the world.“

“My kids have been attending Zang Tkd for a while now, and we couldn’t be happier with the experience. The environment is incredibly fun, friendly, and energetic.

Master Zang is truly exceptional. He’s not only passionate about taekwondo, but also deeply committed to teaching it with care and respect. You can tell he genuinely loves what he does. His ability to connect with the kids while maintaining discipline and focus is truly impressive.

Both my children absolutely love coming here, and I’ve seen such positive growth in their confidence, coordination, and focus. I highly recommend this school to any parent looking for a high-quality martial arts program run by someone who really cares.“

“A Hidden Gem in Martial Arts Education

This martial arts academy is truly a standout. The space is immaculately clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully designed with an open-concept layout that allows parents the flexibility to either stay and observe or drop off and pick up with ease.

What sets this academy apart is its clear structure. Each student receives a booklet that outlines the types of lessons to expect, which helps set goals and track progress. The belt system is merit-based—something we deeply appreciate as it instills a sense of hard work and accomplishment.

A highlight for us has to be Coach Josh and his incredible ability to engage every child, no matter the class size. He doesn't just teach punches and kicks—he introduces the kids to “E-guard” (Emotional Guard), helping them build not just physical strength but also emotional resilience. This balance of physical and emotional education is rare and incredibly valuable.

The dojo games are a major hit, and it’s easy to see why—learning and fun go hand in hand here. Coach Josh’s energy, consistency, and passion create an environment where kids are not only learning martial arts but also life skills.

As much as I’d love to keep this gem to myself, it’s simply too good not to share. The growth which I have observed in my child in terms of physical and emotional was what sparked me write this review so that other people (be it for a child or a grown up) may benefit from this Martial Arts Academy.

P.S* The diamond logo might be misleading but this place is truly a gem!“

“I've been practicing here for nearly two years. The environment and community are top notch. The coaches, Kate and Gina are champions and care about each student, working hard to ensure all of the needs are met. Master Bao is an amazing Tai chi instructor and very personable. Would recommend to anyone who was interested in either tai chi or a martial arts form. Jai Yo!“

“Our 6 year old absolutely loves the Tiger program. He's building confidence, focus, and strength. We took advantage of the $49 4-week special that included a free uniform! It's been a great experience.

Thanks Kaminski's!“

“I’ve been doing martial arts for more than 40 years, and research and write about them from my home in Japan. You won’t find a better place to learn.“

“My son went to Young Brothers in Aspinwall for almost 10 years! He has earned his third degree black belt. Over the time we were there, Mr. and Mrs. Master Norris were absolutely wonderful. They are consistent and professional while also being a lot of fun. My son's self confidence increased as he mastered the skills required to obtain each belt. They also emphasize being a good person with strong values. It was all around a very welcoming and positive experience for all of us!“

“My son, his wife, and their 3 kids all take lessons in Young Brothers Family Class. They all love it and it's been great in teaching not only a variety of moves to not only protect themselves, but also discipline, honor, and ethics.
The kids are 8, 6, and 4. It's such a wonderful thing to do together as a family. The staff are very, very good with kids and meet the kids where they are.
If I were a little younger and more flexible I'd take the classes with them. We very highly, recommend them.“

“My 4 kids going to the TMAS over many years has been excellent for their physical health, their mental health, and their moral and ethical development. I am very grateful they are here in Pittsburgh and my kids have been able to participate here.“

“The main instructors have combined Aikido experience of over 70 years. They also organize regular seminars, where legendary Aikido instructors teach several classes a day over a weekend, and if you have never been thrown by a 7th dan Sensei, you don't know what you're missing (actually, if these words make sense to you, you probably do).Complete beginners are welcome--you only need to bring comfortable clothes to exercise in. To enter, you go past the sliding gate facing the street, continue forward, and then take a left. The studio door is going to be in front of you. If you see woodworking equipment, you are at the right place; this studio shares a courtyard with Jones Furniture Design.“

“I practiced at Aikido of Pittsburgh for 25 years, until the COVID19 epidemic moved my family out of town. I will always be indebted to Shihan Masutani and her excellent instructors for their dedication to the future of Aikido.“

“Black Hawk Martial Arts is a great place to train, work on your fitness, develop excellent relationships and just have fun while sweating it out. The instructors (Master Ron and Ray) have a great understanding of each student's personal needs and abilities and are willing to work within those limitations. They teach traditional martial arts, but show us how to use it, if needed, in a modern day application.For youths, I have watched them gain confidence in themselves while learning discipline, focus, and respect. For the adults, including myself, we have learned more focus, strength, and confidence.Black Hawk Martial Arts is a great place for individuals or families to learn and have fun at the same time.“

“The environment here is one of respect for the craft. A place where you can challenge yourself, get a great workout, and meet a friendly community of diverse people. It is very enjoyable for everyone.I took a ten year break and was welcomed back like I never left.“