Best Aikido Club Grand Rapids Near Me

DaitoryuNJ Aiki Jujutsu (Manny Jimenez): A perfect dojo to start or continue your martial arts journey. Very knowledgeable instructors.

Sugi Yama: After over a year of attendance, I will say that this dojo has high quality, welcoming, and wonderful instructors, and lots of opportunities for a variety of practices.I came into this dojo for their Shinkendo training a year ago with absolutely no prior martial arts experience, and I was pretty nervous. But Rodney and his students were super fun and welcoming, and I kept coming back to learn more. Rodney never gave me more than I could handle, yet always subtly pushed me to try harder and harder. He made my foray into the martial arts a really great experience.Later into training, I started training with Scott in Shinto Muso Ryu Jodo. His instruction is certainly a little more stern, but it has paid dividends as I've watched myself develop in the art. He takes great care in ensuring our technique is correct, and that we approach our training with the right mentality.Both Rodney and Scott's classes regularly feature visits and oversight from highly trained sensei, which serve as excellent supplements to their instruction.While I've personally never trained in the Daito Ryu program, the instructor, Hung, is a really wonderful man. Every time I see him, instructing or not, he is always very kind and compassionate. He is also highly knowledgeable in his arts. His students are lucky to have him!Overall, I have to say this is a wonderful place to learn martial arts. I've learned a great deal and met lots of amazing people here, and I still look forward to practice every day.

Chris Spencer: Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,ValueGreat instructors, friendly, great atmosphere. Very knowledgeable.

ebiri nkugba: What a wonderful, open community for study.

Bruce Stevens: Nice influx of new students. Everyone handled the variety of techniques straight away.Excellent supplementary weapons training for the extended class.Look forward to more open-hand and Jo practice.

Jacob Richter: Will you re open? I couldn't find anything about this on the website and I hope you will.

Clayton Haveman: Critical:Professionalism

Brandon: Getting back into the martial arts was one of the best decisions I have made, espeically, Aikido. I am happy to have the opportunity to study Aikido in a traditional dojo with world class instructors and wonderful students.It is a place to train the whole person in martial capabilities, but also develop character.I am extremely grateful to have found Kyoseikan Dojo.

Luke LaVigne: An amazing place, professional and authentic. I’ve only been going here a few months and I absolutely feel like I am with family.

Johnny Trends: Top teachers & level of Aikido and Iaido available in the Midwest set inside a beautiful dojo, with nice mats, an inviting atmosphere, encapsulated by a true essence of martial arts.

Dave Stycos: A beautiful and nurturing place to develop your inner warrior!

Nathan Amthor: I just started taking Aikido here and already feel welcomed and at home. As a 39 year old man with no martial arts background, I felt very nervous, but everything is great so far.

Paul Van Schoyck: This is an amazing place to train. The instructors are incredible, passionate people who care deeply about transmitting their art. I couldn't recommend a place more!

Tim Maletic: Traditional martial arts -- aikido and karate -- in a beautiful setting. The people I train with here are dedicated but humble, and the instruction is both friendly and rigorous. This is a world-class dojo.

Eric Boynton: Great place to train, learn and meet good people!

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

Christoph Prem: Craig is a phenomenal trainer has built a great training environment.

Mike Brann: Craig is so knowledgeable in martial arts and self defense.Always patient while teaching. Highly recommend to learn self defense and get a great workout.

Jacob Harris: Master Craig is a very talented instructor who has a lot of skill conveying information to students, including newbies to martial arts / practical self defense. The atmosphere at Ronin Martial Arts Academy is very friendly and the community is full of friendly people.

Hollie McDonald: I started attending the Academy in January 2019. Since then, I've attended classes, tested for my next belt (passed- yay!), learned how to protect myself & others, and made life-long friends. Craig is an insanely talented instructor, but also an amazing human being. His approach is more holistic than I could have imagined- the physical and technical skills are incredible, but Craig also emphasizes protecting others through avoiding violence all together, how you can be a better member of society, and helps you understand how you and your actions can/should better the world around you. The personal growth I experienced includes becoming less of an aggressive-hard charger, and more of a thoughtful, intentional human trying to keep everyone a little safer. (As for the two-star review left by another reviewer SOLELY BASED ON A PICTURE, we'd love to welcome that reviewer at the Academy so they can learn more about how we keep ourselves and others safe, and why you need to get out of the way if someone is trying to stab you).

J Evans: Easily the best program and instructor in the state.

Jeff Riddle: WORLD CLASS. My wife and I recently attended a seminar for self defense reasons and were blown away. The owner/teacher Craig Gray clearly knows martial arts but perhaps more importantly, he's an outstanding teacher. He's patient, supportive, and creates a learning environment that's inclusive of all ages, genders, shapes, and sizes.In addition, the seminar was comprised of a community of the nicest people that went out of their way to make us feel welcomed.... a testament to Craig and his effort to shape a culture of support and inclusion. I was so impressed that I decided to join the academy and it's been the same experience with every class since.Highly recommend Ronin Krav Maga for those looking for an inclusive, safe place to learn effective self defense.

brandyn brown: Confidence and clarity are what I gain by training at the academy. What to protect, how to protect, and why we protect are themes that are interwoven throughout each class. And while physical fitness is not the primary focus, it's definitely a huge added benefit to attending classes. You don't have to be an athlete to train here, but you will feel like one if you do.

Jennifer Franson: I am a better person overall for training here! The class is challenging yet empowering as he teaches skills with ethical clarity and the class culture embodies a Protector community. Hopefully I won't have to use what I've learned but I am a much more confident person in the meantime!

Tedd O'Neill: Vince Kasaba is an excellent instructor. He maintains a safe, respectful learning environment. He will gladly spend time with you to answer your questions regarding Systema.

Tiffany Emelander: Good food.

Nate Slusher: I have trained Russian Martial Art with Vince for a few years and have found him to be both an excellent practitioner as well as teacher. The facility is great and I would recommend for people of all ages, due to his sensitivity towards training in a way that works for each students physical conditioning and injury history! highly recommend!

Richard Taracks: I visited this school and worked with Master Kasaba. I had a great time and his knowledge of Systema and the depth his understanding I very impressive. I am very happy with this school.

eli: great gym and amazing atmosphere. the coaches are awesome. BEST GYM !!!

Joe Saldin: Great community, with coaches who know what they’re doing. Would highly recommend if you’re looking for a new gym, or starting BJJ for the first time.

Michael Trupke: I trained there for about 6 months.Stopped because I saw one too many ACLs torn and bones broken. Coaches were nice neighbors but I wouldn't recommend training there if you're not all in on rolling and getting a serious injury. Not every gym is like that

cooper pratt: Great place to train filled with great people who make you feel welcome the second you step foot through the doors. Highly recommend

Justin Brennan: Daniel Gracie Team Michigan is hands down the best place to train BJJ in West Michigan. The team is competitive and will push you to grow your ability. The coaches have tremendous knowledge and will help you increase your skill level regardless of where you’re at on your journey. Top notch facility that they continue to upgrade as the school continues to grow. Can’t recommend enough, this is the place to train if you’re in West Michigan!

Willie Stokes: Instructors genuinely care for all their students. Higher belts are patient and work with you, all around great vibe… even when you’re getting after it

Sergio Gonçalves Fontes Fernandes: I love training there, the students and coaches are very good. The songs that coach miguel puts on during training are awesome!

Marianne Kantati: An excellent place to be, whether you are brand new to Jiu Jitsu/MMA, or experienced. This place feels like a community, and the coaches want every individual to be a success. I look forward to class, and attend every chance I get.The coaches have a systematic approach that is very helpful in building technique and muscle memory. I am able to see my progression from the start and how far I have come in such a short time. The trainer’s attention to detail and clear and concise instructions, make it easy to apply new techniques, correctly. If you want to up your game, meet great people, or just improve your overall fitness, I suggest signing up at this gym.

Chris Dabish: Great attitude at this gym, great instructors and teammates to learn from, always ready to answer questions. Both hobbyist and competitor friendly

Brian Vo: Awesome place and great coaches. Beginner friendly and don't make bets with Cody.

kirgin Tanis: Daniel gracie is the best jui jutsu gym in Michigan

Jailen Tatum: Best place to train

Stephan Urkel: This is the best places ever! Everyone welcomes you in and learn so much along the way. Been going for about a year now and one of the best decisions I made yet!!!

Wakana Narisako: Large facility with great instructors and friendly environment. Convenient location. Great place to start your bjj training.

Josh Anstey: This is the best academy in Michigan! Cohi and Miguel both welcomed me including all the other students! All around great coaches who push you to be the best regardless of what your goals are. Whether it’s to compete, get in shape, or make new friends. I’m grateful to be apart of a great team/family!

Pooh The Bear: Fantastic place to train❗️

Tate Cox: Great gym, great coaches, great price. Everybody is super friendly and classes are always fun. Not a single bad thing to say about this place.

Maria Casey: Thank you !!!

PJ Weigel: Daniel Gracie Grand Rapids has a group of knowledge and dedicated coaches. No matter what your goals are Cohi, Miguel, and Ron will help you reach them.

David St. Pierre: Feels like home

David Hodgson: If you're looking for a traditional martial art, self-defense, or stand-up to compliment your ground work, look no further. This dojo has a great atmosphere for learning and some of the best teachers around. Their insistence on practical application of traditional techniques is unmatched. You won't be taught anything because "that's just how it's done". Come check it out - you won't regret it!

Jon Urich: Great place to grow mentally and physically. There’s always continuous learning. Awesome teachers and group to practice with.

Scott Shaw: We started training with the Flees' when my son was small, in the "Karate for Kids" program. Soon, our entire family began training together. We wanted to teach our son martial arts values (i.e., perseverance, respect, self-control, integrity) and we found the program aligned with what we were also hoping to instill (along with "martial arts" structure and a great workout). I appreciated my son answering up "yes Sir" or "yes Ma'am" and being encouraged to do his best while also encouraging others in class, eventually becoming a black belt leader over time.We deliberately signed up for a couple year agreement because we wanted the accountability to continue training and help our son earn his black belt (as we did with him). We knew that we could not teach our son perseverance by quitting, and we wanted to encourage his ongoing training (and our own) through the process of making commitments and following through on achieving a realistic goal (black belt), all transferrable skills for real life (i.e., career, relationships).As we upgraded to the leadership program from the black belt program, we also found the opportunities to help instill leadership traits, while finding areas to transfer these skills in and outside of class (i.e., school, work). My family stuck with KarateBuiltGR/Flees Martial Arts, all earning our advanced black belts (3rd, 4th degree respectively) to help instill perseverance and a "never quit" attitude. The training and consistency has been life changing and accomplished what we hoped to instill in our son when he was younger. There were times that he did not want to go to class or train at home, yet the importance of consistency over time and working towards a big goal has been most valuable now that he is an adult.I would highly recommend KarateBuiltGR for those who are serious and desire an opportunity to train and grow, while also having the consistency and accountability to make a real difference in your child's (or your) life. Good habits and instilling lifelong values only happen through consistency over time. One cannot teach perseverance by quitting, or learn discipline and focus from rapidly jumping from one sport, activity, or fidget to the next when it begins to require work and consistency.Check out KarateBuiltGR!

Ted DeShaw: Speaking as a former martial artistThe kids are not shown proper technique, how to make a fist and proper contact with a target witch can lead to serious injuries.All they care about is your money your child’s safety is secondary.

Tammy DeShaw: Do NOT under any circumstance go here. They try to pull you in with a "coupon" to make you think you're getting a great deal. Then they make you sign a contract without telling you you're signing a one year contract. We signed our daughter up thinking she could try it to see if she liked it (we even said this multiple times in front of the owner) and if she didn't she could stop. Less than a month into it we decided to stop because she didn't like it and the owner runs the place like a military school- plus he's demeaning. That's when we found out we are under a contract and to cancel we have to pay 2 months payments! We can't afford that and are furious! We feel blindsided and scammed. DO NOT GO THERE!

Chris Ellesson: I have been training with the Dwayne Flees for about 17 years. I have been doing martial arts for 36 years. I has been the best instructor I’ve had and an inspiration to do better in life.

Erin Neumann: This is a scam!!!! Avoid at all costs!!!!

Dakota Twiss: My boys enjoy attending class a and look forward to their days at KarateBuilt.Mr. Fleece and Ms. Fleece worked with my family to make the opportunity possible for both of my children to be apart of an amazing program, and we couldn’t be more than thankful for them.

Erika Kryger: Positive:ProfessionalismAn amazing community of people to be a part of.

Caleb Daniel: I attended Karate Built for years. I earned my 3rd degree black belt and trained to become an instructor. I now teach my own students with the skills and lessons I learned at Karate Built. I still have a great friendship with the owners and they welcome my students into their classes whenever I need to close for seasonal breaks. I can’t believe some of the comments that people are leaving on here about where I trained. It’s martial arts people, it’s supposed to be strict and difficult. Perseverance is one of the greatest life lessons I learned here. When I didn’t want to go to class because it was hard, or scary, or tiring, my parents made me go and you know what? I’m a better person now because I went. Yes, the price is steep and once you sign up you’re locked in for the long haul, but isn’t it worth it to make sure your child learns how to finish things that they start? (College, Trade School, Projects)Karate Built will make your child someone you can be even more proud of than you already are and someone that will be able to defend themself. Send your kids here.

Krystal Spach: Love it here my girls have attended over a year.

Rick D: Will not stop calling I have blocked numerous numbers for them now they’re calling unknown this place is a scam and a joke

Faded City: This place tricked my friend into signing not one but two year long contracts! That you could not get out of! They totaled over 10,000 dollars. My friend got depressed and didn't want to go anymore. But for 10 months they made him keep paying. Only towards the very end did i think they might of gave him a slight discount! May God shut you down! Evil everywhere! So please help by not going! That would make them lose the 10,000 they stole!!

Harsh Nigam: best place i went here

Kai Hugh: Now, this place is absolutely amazing! When I had first joined to me it was like "cool somewhere where I can empty my energy" but now it's just so much more, this place has forged me friendships. And sure you go home numb and thirsty but as the fleeses have a way of doing that makes me WANT to come back and challenge my yesterday's self. Plus for Those people who think it's too expensive, sure it is but have you ever seen a sport that doesn't require payment in some kind? After all the fleeses have to have a way to pay for their equipment their employees and the kids belts the things aren`t free y`know! And if you've been going for as long as I have the fleeses become more than a place to go and people to challenge you the fleeses become your family and the academy slowly start becoming your home away from home.Ps. Sorry if I spell your name wrong spell check doesn't like it.

Lindsey Mooney: Our son has been going to Flees Martial Arts for about two and a half years. He’s six and a half now. He has morphed from a bit of a squirley little guy to being totally into it and serious. He is loud and proud with saying “yes ma’am” (to his teachers, not to me) and takes karate seriously.We like the owners a lot they are both lovely people and the teachers are great. Yes they want to earn and keep your business so they do offer lots of programs which can come off as being very salesy. They are very passionate about what they do!

Becky Blom: Very fun and educational. Teaches more than just Taekwondo/Karate, they really emphasise on building good character traits and developing life skills. They offer lots of extra special events both for students and adults eg. Bully Prevention, CPR and college bound readiness programs.

Bossbred Bowly: I am the father of the 10y/o who grand father was turned away. The mom doesn't participate in her son's extra curricular activities. So yes the school will turn away people who they don't know. No matter age, race or creed. She is the daughter of said grand father. This is a perfect example of a martial arts studio showing member safety. It will be a year in April our child has gotten 3 different belts. Mom hasn't attended 1 testing cycle. So if you never come to verify who you are Flees ATA has no choice but to follow protocol. To all who complain about money or what they charge, say no! I could not afford the starter but Fleece worked with me. Actually let me name the price. Fleece also has many payment plan options. You would be doing your child an injustice by signing them up for less than a year. Fleece also have a Groupon to try them out. I love it I recommend them.

mandy bear: This place is pathetic. These people are supposed to be "karate black belt masters" that teach the students there, yet when my 10yo son invited his grandfather to come and watch his class from the viewing area he was turned away and told that is not allowed for the safety of the students. So even though they tell parents that these classes will teach the kids confidence and self-defense they themselves don't feel confident in their OWN ability to protect the students from an elderly grandfather. What a joke, can't wait to get my son out of this school!!

Emily Schwandt: My sons and I could not be happier with this Academy!! Mr. & Mrs. Flees are wonderful support for parents in the community to teach safety, confidence, self-discipline & respect. This is so much more than just martial arts classes and well worth it. For those people who are saying they have not treated people fairly when it comes to tuition you must be missing something. If an emergency has come up and i can't afford it they have ALWAYS been willing to work with me on it and as a single mom of 2 boys that makes a huge difference. Just speak with them and you will see.

Jason Traxler: We initially placed our daughter in classes because we wanted to know she could defend herself, but we got SO much more out of having her enrolled at Flees ATA. Her grades have gone up, her confidence has increased, she now feels comfortable talking in public, and those are only to start! ATA has a strict curriculum that allows for parents to get to have input into goals for their child. During life lessons, the instructors often ask the parents for input which the kids are held accountable to by their peers as well as their instructors. This is a business and it isnt free. The school is kept VERY clean, the bathrooms scrubbed daily, mats air-ionized to reduce bacteria and smell, safety mats and shields upgraded regularly to keep the students safe. We have made a few sacrifices to make tuition possible but after seeing what we get out of it, the cost is VERY reasonable. Once equipment is purchased, that cost is done unless you want new or your kid outgrows what they have (my daughter lost her board for board breaks and we made her earn the money to purchase a replacement). We are grateful to the academy and as parents, we stay involved because it is awesome to watch her grow as she works towards her Black Belt!

Kylie Traxler: I have been a student for 1 1/2 years at Flees ATA. I have learned to defend myself, become a leader and speak in front of others. I am very happy that I saw the Flees ATA Booth at the kids expo last year and had my parents sign me up. I have also gone from a C student to almost all A's in school. This is my sport and I am proud to be working hard at it.