Best Self Defense School Grand Rapids Near Me

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!

Michelle DeGraaf: My daughter is a newer student here. This program has already made such a huge difference in her confidence and skills! She has never been so motivated about anything. She LOVES her classes here and has seriously learned so much. I credit the teachers who strike a wonderful balance of challenging the kids while keeping it fun, engaging, and positive always!

Lori Blackburn: My son is not really into traditional sports, so this was a perfect fit for him! Sensei Sasa works well with everyone- students and parents alike and is definitely an asset to this organization.

Rachel Lynn: Enrolling my 6-1/2 year old son at PMA was one of the best decisions I've ever made. In just a few months of practice, I have seen his behavior and attitude improve greatly. This is not just about karate. This is about confidence, discipline, and personal growth. This is a transformational experience that I would recommend to anyone. I was so impressed with PMA and the amazing instructors that I also enrolled and I love every class. Thanks for the amazing work you do!

Robyn Sackeyfio: Great dojo with nice, patient people who are committed to helping our kids improve themselves.

Nathan Freier: Our daughter found her calling here! Knowledgeable and supportive instructors!!! Great place to learn martial arts and life skills!

Craig Mulica: My son loves this program! Excellent instructors and good teaching of physical and emotional/moral technique!

elizabeth velker: Love Premier! The instructors are so amazing with my kids, and the positive messages they teach make a huge difference! It’s not all punches and kicks, it’s character development and helping community. Thank you Premier!Betsy Roth

Sarah Sobie: Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value

Jason Wheeler: This is an amazing school with very knowledgable, dedicated, and kind instructors. I highly recommend Premier for both parents with interested kids and for adults as well. I think their greatest asset is the experience and thoughtfullness of the instructors...I've trained in several gyms, schools, and dojos over the years and this is a high-level experience full of lessons to be learned on and off the mats. Sign Up and see for yourself.

James Sterling: Hi to all of the PMA family.I am the old guy that comes on Wed. and Sat. I look forward to class night so much.I believe that David and Sasa are the best instructors this old guy could have.(61yrs) PMA has been may Physical therapy class.I can move my head and shoulders better now since being a member. I feel that David and Sasa are a great guys along with a great instructors. Keep up the great work I look forward to class time. James

Rafael Barradas: I’ve always wanted to learn self-defense, but the other places I’ve gone to check out I’ve never felt comfortable with until I came to this place and everything was very different. I really like the treatment I receive from the owners and teachers.I recommend them.Siempre quise aprender defensa personal, pero los otros lugares a los que fui a visitar nunca me sentí cómodo hasta que llegué a este lugar y todo fue muy diferente. Me gusta mucho el trato que recibo de los dueños y profesores.Los recomiendo

Daniel Brown: Staff is knowledgeable and caring, students are treated more like a friends than clientele.

Google User: Fantastic!! Such a comfortable and friendly environment. Julie and renee are awesome teachers. Very patient but stern enough with the children so they dont get out of control. Cant say enough good things.

Dennis Monroe: Exceptional staff. Friendly environment. Senseis Julie and Renee are wonderful and really care about kids and their safety. Would 100% recommend!

Diana Klein: My son was researching Karate studios and based on there professionalism he chose this Dojo. When he went for the trial class he loved it. He admires his teachers and looks forward to going to class. This has greatly changed his confidence and made him more disciplined.

Mad Money50: Great place to learn Karate. My son loves coming and loves sensi Julie!

Jantje Jensen: My daughter takes classes and loves it! I can't say enough good things about the teachers and style of teaching.

Micah Hare: Great place to learn! Very experienced coaches!

Toni: It smells like bleach so you can tell it’s clean. Everything is safe and sanitized. They are so respectful and educational and work wonderful with the children.

Zena Alsharif: Great place! My husband has been going there for over 10 years and has learned so much from Brian and the team. They are always so kind and welcoming to everyone.I myself attended a kick fit class and first hand experienced their professionalism and cleanliness at this facility. Brain would wipe down all the equipment before and after each class which I personally appreciated. Check them out you will not be disappointed.

Kari Sherman: My son joined late in comparison to the other kids in his class, he is 9 and never had any experience. The sensei's made him feel like he belonged from the very first class. He can't wait every week for classes. So proud of his growth and thankful for the team here!

3lmir: If you are looking to learn self defense, or even just work out to stay in shape this is the best place in town! Have been training here for 7 years and its been a blast.

Todd Miller: Best place in Michigan!

Brian Pols: Amazing. So glad I found this place for my 5 year old son.

Nancy Suarez: Best place ever

Austin Tompkins: Great place to train. Friendly staff and affordable pricing on classes. Wide range of things to do.

Lorraine Asset Protection Officer: Greatest place ever.

Jennifer Geoghan: Our family was looking for an activity that could last year 'round (rain, snow or shine!) and I couldn't be happier with finding Super T Karate. Fast forward 5 years (yes, that's how long we have been part of the Super T Karate family) and we couldn't be more proud of the confidence, discipline, respect, and self awareness that our 2 boys have learned. The instructors really focus on each child's individual skillset and the encouragement during class is amazing! It makes them want to come back each week knowing they can improve and work hard for their next belt. Our 9 year old earned his junior black belt (when he was just 8) after being in karate since he was 4 1/2. I can't believe how much of a leader he has turned into at such a young age. His younger brother also started at 4 1/2 and will be coming up on 1 year of karate in May. He is just as determined as the older brother and it's such a joy to watch them both grow/bond together over martial arts. What's great about Super T Karate, too, is that they teach skills that carry over into school and other sports/activities they may be involved in. Both of my kids are active in other sports and we love it that Super T Karate has a class schedule that fits around other sport's schedules/practices. Highly recommend this school for so many reasons!

Reggie Mccolgan: I have been going to Super T for about 2 years with my eldest son Isaac. At the beginning of these lessons Isaac being 4 was starting to just develop a personality and was a shy kid. In a large part the lessons learned about discipline, kindness, and dedication has allowed him and myself as a parent to grow. I feel the instructors put a lot of time and energy teaching both karate and general life lessons. As a kid he might only take parts of them at a time but I have seen large growth. Thank you to all workers for your help and love you show our children

Emily Monnier: This dojo, the instructors, the curriculum are all top tier. It all has done so much for my daughter. Her confidence, discipline, stamina have all drastically improved since she started as a student at Super T. Other adults in her life have commented on how far she has come, even in the last six months. I am proud to be part of the Super T family, and I am happy that I signed her up two years ago.

Joe: We have been members of Super T Karate since February 2021. I can assure you that Master Terry and his team will make it worth every penny. Even on days when kids show up tired from school, they leave classes smiling and excited. The best way to sum it is this: Yes it’s important to learn, but have fun doing so! I think that’s what sets them apart from others. The prices are very fair and it is a family- oriented atmosphere. In my opinion, you will see your kids grow and mature at a much faster pace than other types of extracurricular activities. Other bonuses that seal the deal for us are the many additional offered perks such as nerf war nights and many adult gun/safety/ knifes/self defense workshops and seminars.

Daya S: I would say a good half an hour physical exercise for the kids but their belt testing or moving level up is a farce. It is definitely not based on skills and the improvement kid show which could be demotivating to them as improvement and extra effort they put in is not encouraged/rewarded. My son has started questioning and loosing interest.

Jenea Jessie: Highly recommend Super T Karate! Our son has been with Super T since he was 4 starting in Little Dragons! He has developed and grown so much over the years with Super T, not only physically but also mentally! The respect, confidence, and life lessons Master Terry, Sensei Leah and the other Senseis instill in the kids is amazing! Off the mat Teachers and other Coaches always rave about our sons respect, focus & sportsmanship and we truly believe Super T has a huge impact on that! We are so thankful for Super T!

Renae VandeRee: My daughter has been going to Super T Karate for 5 months now. Master Terry, Sensei Leah, and the entire staff are excellent instructors. They not only teach karate and self-defense, but they also teach important values and everyday life lessons that are so important to building good character. The instructors help your child learn how to be strong both physically and mentally. The amount of growth that I have seen in our daughter has been tremendous, and I would highly recommend Super T Karate to anyone who is interested in improving their body, mind, and soul 🖤 Big thank you to everyone at Super T Karate for continuously putting time and energy into making this world a more beautiful place to live in

Devin: Sensei Leah does amazing work with my kids, very knowledgeable and patient. I would recommend Super T Karate to anybody looking for karate classes 100%

Hearts of Hope Dog Rescue: My girls love coming here. Sensei Leah is the best and has so much patience with the kids. Highly recommend giving them a try. It has only been a month and I can notice my shy girl coming out of her shell more and more.

K Team: Was a student as a kid and really loved it. Now watching my kid doing it is awesome. Thanks Terry and Leah!

Crystal Slater: My 9yo and 11yo boys really enjoy learning karate here, they smile the whole time and are definitely learning self control and improving their confidence.

Charles DeBrie: My son loves his weekly sessons here, and the growth in him is absolutely amazing in less than 3 months! Plus the offered events for the adults are hands down worth it!!!! I highly recommend Super T Karate, they are real good folks here!

Cindi: It's great to see how well rounded the lessons are. Not just with self-defense, but also mental strength, & fun. I've been bringing my girls (8yr & 11yr) for a couple months now & I'm excited for the long road ahead at Super-T!!!

Mike Post: After almost 30 years’ absence from martial arts, I decided to return again at age 68. I chose Super T Karate and I am very pleased. Master Terry, Sensei Mark, and Sensei Leah give excellent instruction and I find myself looking forward to each class. Real world martial arts are taught here along with responsibility and respect. I highly recommend STK for anyone of any age!

Yodit Ketera: My daughter 4 years and my son 6 years old. They really enjoyed training at Super T karate. It's a great program and a great team for kids and adults to develop self confidence , self discipline , focus and self defense and etc. My kids don’t want missed they schedule even though they tired, they going four days a week. This is a black belt school !!

moon shark: I love Master Terry! Beyond the Karate,( although awesome ), the life lessons he teaches the kiddos are priceless! Sensei Leah is THE BEST! She makes the kiddos excited and happy to work hard and be respectful. My kiddo LOVES her classes!

Julia Steinke: Great place for kids and adults to learn karate and kick boxing. Kids especially benefit from the self discipline while building self esteem. Don’t hesitate! Master Tery is phenomenal.

Nicole Westen: Such a scam

Emily Glover: My son's are 6 and 9 and started Super T Karate on mid February. It has made my heart happy to see my nervous 9 year old gain confidence and determination while also learning key life lessons on respect, honesty, awareness, strength and so much more. My 6 year old was the first one to come to me and say he wanted to learn karate. He has a heart defect and this is a great pace for him and he feels so proud and strong after each lesson. He is very sensitive and has a hard time controlling his emotions at times, I watched him rein it in and continue on with his lesson and then Calmly talk to me after about why he got emotional (everyone laughed suddenly and he thought they were making fun of him).All of the Sensei's that have worked with my kids have been great!! They keep their attention, keep it fun and the kids moving. You can tell they are passionate about what they are teaching and passing it on to all their students.

Eric Morgan: Great place! Family operated. I definitely would recommend Super T Karate.

Jessica Marcks: Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,ValueI started coming here for kickboxing about two months ago and I have learned so much. Terrell is a great instructor, he's extremely motivating and just all around an amazing teacher.

Khalil Benson: I wanted to train at a small martial arts school when I moved to Grand Rapids 6 months ago. When searching I found LMAA and gave it a try and I have been there since. The teacher is great, and he makes time to work ono-on-one with all students. It is a friendly atmosphere. I have learned a lot while training with LMAA and I am so glad I that it was my first choice! I recommend this school to everyone, especially if you want time to witness your own growth as a martial artist. Lastly, the martial arts taught here are taught in a way to insure that you can confidently defend yourself.

Shawna Beer: My son has been part of Lion Martial Arts Academy for a few years now. He has learned many skills, strengths understanding an discipline of the art of KUNG FU from Sifu Terrell. LMAA is a safe place for children to learn Kung Fu. Sifu Terrell is a great teacher.

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.

brianna ray: This was an awesome experience to be a part of; family friendly and fun to do with a nice workout with tons of friendly faces and encouragement.

KillRhythm !: Taking classes here has been an amazing, positive, no pressure experience.As a newcomer I was surprised at how many black belts were in my beginner class. At first I was a little intimidated, but that didn't last long. I'm literally surrounded by excellent instructors who are dedicated to passing along their knowledge.The self defense aspect is the real deal, as well as their traditional training methods.They have deep roots in both Okinawa and the local community. It's truly one of those Grand Rapids gems we're lucky to have. Hope to see you there too!*EDIT*: ... About 3 years of classes here now, and I couldn't be happier with my decision. Joining the dojo has been one of the best choices I've ever made. Awesome folks and quality training.

Bryce Johnson: Got to check this place out!

Tanner arens: Perhaps one of the most authentic Karate schools there is, there's no focus on being flashy, it's all about practicality. It's a very good school for people of all ages and the instructors are some of the most friendly and wonderful people I've met. Definitely one of the best schools for beginner, intermediate and advanced practitioners of Shorin Ryu Karate.

Michael Tuffelmire: This is not your typical mini-mall martial arts school. This is traditional Okinawan Karate that builds you physically and mentally. It is a pathway towards peace as you prepare yourself for the unseen dangers of the world. The Sensei who started this dojo is internationally known and is one of the key figures who brought Shorin-Ryu Karate to Michigan. As a combat veteran dealing with PTSD, I have found a healthy positive outlet in this school. Rather you are trying to be a competitive fighter, a family looking for an extracurricular activity, or a young kid who wants to build themselves this is the dojo for you. I especially like their lunch time classes for my schedule.

David Settle: Shorin-Ryu Karate school is a fantastic dojo. It is a great place to learn traditional Okinawan karate, and I have been amazed at the results I have experienced in physical fitness and self-defense tactics.All of the lead teachers are highly qualified with many years of experience working with all age groups. As a man in his fifties, the exercises are intense enough to give me a solid workout while not becoming overwhelming to the point of risking injury. I can train at the pace that makes the most sense for me, and the instructors offer encouraging and constructive criticism to help me improve.

Don Mullins: Shorin-ryu Karate School is a top quality dojo.The supervising Sensei is an 8th Dan with over 30 years’ experience, as well as being Yudansha in other styles. The primary instructor has over 25 years in various martial arts and takes the time to address the specific needs of the students.The dojo has been open since 1990, making it one of the oldest in the Grand Rapids area. Shorin-ryu is a traditional Okinawan style taught in a traditional manner. The emphasis is upon self-perfection through physical disciple – the Do. If you are looking for a MMA school or practical self-defense program, this is not the dojo for you. If you seek quality instruction, increased self-development, and improved physical fitness - Shorin-ryu Karate School is the place to be.

Evelyn Fuhrman: This is a welcoming dojo with exceptional teaching. I've learned more about martial arts attending Shorinryu Karate School in one year than training elsewhere for eight years prior. Training here, students are taught far beyond how to punch or kick; they study both the mind and body, and how the two work together. Chosing to practice karate here was one of the best decisions of my life.

Rhonda Riley-Thayer: This place is fantastic for women. I started training here to just learn self-defense. I didn’t expect to be particularly good at it (I’m no longer very flexible or muscular), but I thought if I could at least fend off an attacker it would be worth the money. I was very surprised when I discovered how simple it is. All of the techniques are designed to go with the natural structure of your body. You can’t kick high? Not a problem. Aim for the knee, hip, etc. Punches get stronger over time. And, because you aren’t punching with muscle they are much more powerful.This is a traditional school teaching a traditional style in a somewhat traditional environment. I’ve learned so much about my body, the way I move and how I interact with others thanks to the instruction of Sensei Giles, Sensei Estrada and the other black belts. I highly recommend this place to women, mothers, grandmothers and anyone else who wants something more than yoga, isn’t afraid of getting bruises on their arms/legs, and wants to feel secure in the knowledge they are not a fragile flower that needs rescuing.

Heidi Vansleigh: Beautiful shool inside. Yoga thursday nights to relax by. Doesn't hurt few of the guys are quite hot. Ladies gotta come down here and check the place out.

Talen Kleck: It is a great place to learn and practice Karate. I highly recommend going there.

Jean Fery: Great School!

Farmer: Excellent for my daughter who loves going to class and learning with Little Mantis class!

Ashley Battle: I love studying Jow Ga here! I have had such an excellent experience and tell everyone who will listen to me about Chan's Kung Fu. Perfect place for everyone who is passionate and dedicated to learning!

Jan Blacha: Hello,I joined Chan's Kind Fu School in April of 2023. I spent much time searching for a Wing Chun school and Sifu that I felt would match my own personal standards. This I found at Chan's Kung Fu School. Master Chan and Angel who manages the front reception both were very kind, helpful and calming when I first attended my class last month,. Subsequently, I have decided to join the school and the organisation in order to train in the On-Line Distance Learning program. I live on the other side of the state and will also be be relocating to Poland in under a year. So, this was a very important facet to my decision. I am a 55 year practitioner in martial arts. I highly reconmend Chan's Kunf Fu School for your own training.Regards, John Blacha

Dionshon Starling: Chan’s Kung Fu is Avery amazing place not just to learn the Art of Kung Fu but the beautiful culture and the training atmosphere is immaculate and an honor to train up under a master like Sifu Chan thank you Sifu

Ethan K.: Phenomenal instructors who are both skilled and helpful along with a welcoming and wonderful community of students!

Gedeon Ntore: Very Good!

Ed Heil: The Chans are some of the kindest and most positive teachers I've ever met, and it's an honor to learn from them. Coming from a place of little physical activity or skill, I joined tai chi classes and gained skill, balance, and body awareness. I still consider tai chi to be an important part of my life.

Whitney Thiry: chan's kung fu school is amazing!! i found them through google maps and the ratings do not lie! i had never tried martial arts before, and i think it was a perfect place to start. there are students of all levels and backgrounds. come learn with us😊

Athanasie AKUMUNTU: Very Good Instructors and inclusive to all!

Danny Nguyen: The best gift I was given.

Todd Brown: Class A school!!

Yusouf Quraishi: I have been to a few martial arts schools in Grand Rapids and NONE of them compare to Chan's Kung Fu School! Instruction is Phenomenal, the School is very spacious & clean, and students & their families are all so friendly.

Troy Crowner: The core values alone make this school amazing to me.Young and old, women and men all actively honing their skills.I guess what hits me the most when I see the youngest of them waiting within the circle as another performs. Patiently. Not something I see a lot of, in children OR adults.Don't get it twisted though, some of these folks come out covered in sweat. I am guessing that it directly equates to the amount of effort given.My granddaughter and grandson both attend classes currently.I see the benefits for virtually anyone to include Kung Fu.Health, sport, fun.Don't be shy. Good people doing good things. There are comfortable chairs in the lobby where you can see for yourself.

Emerence Mukobwajana: So many great things to say about Chan's Kung Fu School. When you enter the school, you will feel VERY Welcomed & humbled. You will know you are at "home" just by stepping foot inside the school, the students, instructors, & of course sifu are so very patient & non-judgmental.

Matthew Haley: I’ve been going to Chan’s for 12 years now! I love the family and experiences I’ve gained over the years. This school is a great way to learn martial art and to gain so many life long friends!

Tmaster King: This school carries its tradition very well considering most places don't anymore.

Cory K: Great place to learn Chinese martial arts. Very experienced and helpful instructors. The Sifu is amazing.

Anne Opolski: Awesome classes for people to learn Self-Awareness, build their confidence, and to DEFEND themselves! Membership prices are reasonable especially for the guidance/teaching that you get. Hands down the best Martial Arts School in Grand Rapids! Lastly, I appreciate that I am able to work at my OWN pace and am not rushed through a curriculum. Sifu, David, JD, & Matt are patient and knowledgeable about what they are teaching. This is something that should be fit into anyone's life style.

Alain Sullivan: I cannot speak more highly of this institution. On top of the absolute top notch instruction by Sifu Chan, as well as the other instructors, I have never experienced a more welcoming and loving community. I love my Kung Fu Family!

Tammie H: My son has learned more in the 6 months he has been in the program, than he did in 5 years at his previous program. He is stronger, happier, and more confident than he has ever been. 🥋

Stacia Jones: My son loves his class. The instructors are great and he's learning well!