Best Taekwondo Competition Area Grand Rapids Near Me

Chrissylynn Breiler: My son Morgan has been attending classes at Black Belt Taekwondo since he was 6. For the first three years he was also receiving Occupational Therapy at Mary Free Bed with Ms. Colleen McFawn and Dr. Holly Grieves through Calvin College Rehabilitation Services. In addition, Morgan received other therapies suggested by his pediatric concussion specialist, Dr. Lisa Voss of Mary Free Bed. My son is a typical 10-year-old boy except for having had four concussions in his first eight years of life and having walked before he crawled. These two things ultimately led to his lack of fine motor skills along with underdeveloped gross motor skills.Morgan began attending Master Jay’s Taekwondo class through the recommendation of his pediatrician and a close family friend.. Master Jay is also a physical therapist by training, so he understood what my son’s limitations were and the goals that he needed to reach.This November, Morgan will be testing for his junior black belt. When “Mrs. Colleen” and “Dr. Holly,” as he calls them, reviewed videos of his last belt testing, they both agreed Morgan has come a long way.“Watched all of his videos - seriously so happy for Morgan! Impressive improvements on time-sensitive motor responses. Makes my day!” Dr. Grieves said.With the help of his physical therapists, his dedication to his sport, and a wonderful coach like Master Jay, Morgan’s gross motor and fine motor skills are up to par with his peers.Taekwondo has also helped in other ways. It’s not just a means to becoming physically fit or using up little boy energy. It’s a way of life! The students are taught self-discipline, concentration, motivation, and work ethic. As a result, their self-esteem blossoms! And all of this is accomplished in an enjoyable environment that keeps the kids engaged with a willingness to do better, be better, and have fun. I am so grateful we found Master Jay and Black Belt Taekwondo.

Joecool08 Joecool08: master jay and the team of black belt tae kwon do (julyan and jensis) are the best!!!! i had an injury last year. it was very hard for me coming back in the game but the team worked hard to get me in shape and ready. i have never felt better in my life plus i have learned to be stronger not just physically but holistically! i strongly recommend the black belt tae kwon do of grand rapids to all! to unleash your inner potential! going above and beyond... this is the place you want to be! God bless and more power to team bbtkdgr! 😁👍👍

dan diemer: Of you want to get into shape and make friends this is the place. Master jay is awesome!!

Bbsharma9996: My boy is attending classes here for over 4 month and completely love it. The classes have been a fantastic source for exercise and self improvement. Grand Master have a great ability to teach classes and push each individual to their own potential.

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

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.

Li Huang: Both My son and daughter have been practicing Kung fu for more than three years in Golden Tiger Kung fu Academy, and they had great experiences here. Shifu Mei is very skillful and amazing in coaching kids. I would highly recommend Golden Tiger if you consider practicing Kung fu!

Jin Tang: Shifu Mei is dedicated and patient at teaching Kongfu. My son learned a lot and made a lot progress.

Aaron X: My son's been taking martial arts from master Mei since he was five years old. The classes are fun, engaging, and safe. What's most important is the opportunity for my son to stay active, build confidence, and make new friends.

shuling HB: Watching my son improving his physical strength, flexibility, Self-Confidence, and learning so much about himself is a joy to my heart. We never thought and expected what a tremendous positive changes the Wushu Kungfu class would have made for his little life. The master, Mei Shifu is absolutely amazing. Not only her own Kungfu is outstanding, but the patience, kindness, and really good with kids. My son and the kids like her a lot with high respect towards her!!! They are also opening new adult Wushu & Taiichi Classes, can't wait to give it a try myself! Thank you, Golden Tiger! :)

Brad Bloye: What a great experience for our entire family! Our 7-yr old son is learning a ton about health, discipline, flexibility, respect for others, and balance/body movement, in addition to impressive kung fu moves of course. My wife enjoys Tai Chi, and even though I'm middle-aged and a bit overweight, I'm learning a lot about WuShu Kung Fu, feeling more confident with my aging body, and definitely leaning out the midsection quite a bit. We are super thankful to have Master Mei in the Grand Rapids area - she is so patient, calm, positive, and caring with the kids, AND her kung fu achievements are amazing (7-time National Champion in China, etc..). She really is a rare resource and for her to be in the area is an unusual and special opportunity for anyone wishing for their kids or themselves to learn health-oriented Kung Fu/Tai Chi/WuShu in a positive and culturally authentic environment.

Xiaodan Zhang: Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,ValueMy boy has taken martial arts lessons with Master Mei for a year. Master Mei is professional, caring, encouraging, and responsible. She keeps updating me on my kid’s progress. My son has a great time learning, playing and making friends here. Highly recommended!

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!