Martial Arts Schools in Pittsburgh

“I like to visit different gyms when I travel. This place was everything you want in a gym. Great guys to roll with from all skill levels, friendly culture, not formal. I would happily call this my home gym if I lived in the area. Plus, they have striking classes as well.“

“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.“

“This is an awesome gym community with a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. Classes are different every time, offer a challenging workout, and can be modified for anyone's unique needs or restraints. All of the trainers/instructors are helpful and down to earth. I highly recommend giving this place a try!“

“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 started my judo training with Master Eugene Kim and he truly is the best. His sons are great too and I’ve learned much from them. Though I’ve moved out of Pittsburgh now due to work, I truly miss training here.Edit: 4.5 years later, I returned to America and glad I found a job in Pittsburgh so I can train here again!“

“Great place! Wonderful instructor, very personable, highly experienced. My son loves it.“

“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.“

“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!“

“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 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.“