About Warhorse Karate • Jiu Jitsu
Warhorse Karate • Jiu Jitsu is a martial arts school that focuses on developing both physical skills and character in its students. Through a unique "black and blue" stripe system, students earn stripes for self-defense and character skills, such as discipline and respect, which are learned through attending classes and daily character lessons. The school's instructors, led by Mr. Tong, prioritize teaching character skills outside the classroom as well, helping students develop emotional control and confidence. Parents have reported significant growth in their children, including improved behavior, effort, attention, and increased confidence and interest in physical activity. Warhorse Karate • Jiu Jitsu is an excellent choice for kids who want to learn a new skill and grow as a person. Students love coming to class, as they are energized and fully engaged throughout the sessions. Mr. Tong's dynamic leadership and experience working with children keep the activities moving at a lively pace. The belt system requires students to achieve milestones in character development, which parents can either approve or not. This has led to remarkable attitude shifts, with children becoming more self-motivated and interested in showing respect to themselves and others. The school uses an app to communicate events and updates, and Mr. Tong is responsive to parents via text. While parents are not allowed inside the dojo, they can watch from outside, where a small community vibe has formed.
My boys have been coming here for a few months now, and it's been great so far. Both kids love coming to class, and they are amped up and completely dialed in for the entire session. It's wonderful to watch. Mr. Tong leads the group with a dynamic energy the kids really respond to, and the way he keeps things moving from one activity to the next speaks to long experience and facility working with kids. My oldest son in particular is a bit of a wild card, and, depending on the attitude of his teachers in school, is either "strong-willed" and "challenging" or frankly a burdensome pain in the butt. He gets into trouble fairly regularly, and has a cheeky attitude that can difficult to manage. He's genuinely sweet and wholesome, but ruled by wild energies that make his path in the modern world more difficult to navigate. I say all this because I've been so pleased and delighted by the attitude shift I've seen in him over just a few short months at Warhorse. Instruction focuses as much on character development and respect as martial arts. The belt system requires students to achieve milestones in character development, and parents have the power to either sign off on these advancements, or not. One of the early tasks was to complete chores and maintain self-care (cleaning and showering, putting things away etc.) "without being asked" which was incredible. My oldest no longer needed to be prodded and cajoled to do things, he started doing them in his own, not for fear of consequences (which he hardly cares about), but due to interest in getting that next belt! Fulfilling his character development! Both boys became actively interested in how to show respect to others and themselves. The transition has been remarkable. Warhorse has an app to communicate out events and updates, and let you know what equipment may be needed for the week. Mr. Tong is also very responsive via text. Parents are not allowed inside to watch, which I thought was unfortunate at first, but after having been in the dojo and speaking with Mr. Tong about this, I am very grateful for. Having been to several kids soccer games it makes sense that a big audience of parents in a small space would detract from the environment he's built inside, where the kids are dialed in to a single instructor. With that said, there's ample opportunity to watch from outside, which many parents do, and there's a little community vibe out there as well. Standing for long periods can be uncomfortable, so practical suggestion maybe wear good shoes or take rest breaks in your vehicle, or bug out and do some shopping nearby. Great location easy to get to in the Valley.
My son has been attending War Horse for two years now. He LOVES it! It has been a game changer in his attitude, confidence, and even behavior at home. He is learning self discipline and respect combined with really cool karate and jiu jitsu instruction. He especially loves when he gets to learn new nunchucks and bo-staff routines. Master Tong is a fantastic teacher. I highly recommend his program.
Great place to give your child the confidence booster she/he might need. Mr. Tong is a great instructor. My daughter was leery about doing karate/jujutsu, when she comes home now, she says she likes it! Mr. Tong also teaches discipline and respect and gives out great gifts with the tickets that are handed out!