Best Taekwondo School 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

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!

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.

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!

Jax: Patient and friendly instructors who are willing to work with you, clean facility, and valuable skills, even beyond martial arts. I'm thankful for every class I've taken here!

Sue Salzwedel: Knowledgeable and experienced instructors. A great environment for all ages!

AEK Rellek: A common feature in the autism spectrum is performing repetitive movements. Karate is an activity being repetitive that is externally cued. Which is kind of interesting for a different reason.This is also how you get better at motor skills - repetitive practice. While my daughter, who is low functioning autistic did not have the strength as some she was still able to follow routine and build upon it. In her 14 years at East West Karate she made it to Black Belt level. She benefited positively from karate. Highly trained sensei's here taught her personal control, focus, discipline, goal setting, memory, respect, confidence. I would highly recommend East West karate, thank you for all you have done for my daughter.Mary Knott, mother of Alysha

Daniel Cross: It's vary good! Great teachers, affordable, definitely five stars!

Judi Betancourt: If you're in the Wyoming, Kentwood, and Wayland areas check out Zumba on Tuesdays at 6pm and Saturdays at 8pm with Kim T. She gives great direction and has an awesome music selection. She is very clear with her cues and if you mess up...who cares...she'll guide you without making you feel awkward. So what are you waiting for? It's well worth $6. There are punch cards, too. *Tip: No one can see in from the outside* ;)

Michael Johnson: East/West Karate has helped to completely change my son’s confidence and self esteem. Before Karate, my son was sullen, depressed, unsure, and lazy. East/West Karate has increased his energy, enthusiasm, strength, responsibility, and self confidence dramatically! He is a different kid thanks to East/West Karate! The Sensei of East/West Karate teach by instilling in students a desire to respect themselves and others, respect the art and sport of Karate, and respect their community. East/West really does offer a well rounded program which encourages kids to do well at home, school, and in the dojo. And the atmosphere in the dojo is one that pushes students to challenge themselves while also encouraging a real supportive and helpful attitude toward other students. Each lesson taught at East/West Karate is a lesson that can be applied to everyday life. It has been amazing for my son….and therefore for our entire family!

Jennifer Michaels: When I started talking about different activities for my son to be involved in, one of the suggestions was karate. It was not a hard sell for my son, he was "all in" from the beginning. My biggest fear when looking for a dojo was the karate dojo was not going to focus on honor, respect, humility, self-discipline, or any if the other core values necessary for martial arts. So, in order to find a dojo worth its weight in salt, I interviewed dojos across town. I knew I found the dojo I would bring my son to when I started comparing all of the others to East West. I kept hoping I would find a comparable dojo closer to Coopersville, but I never did. We drive 23 miles one way, and I would never take him anywhere else for karate. We have been coming here for more than a year, and I still recommend East West Karate to any one who asks.Thanks, Jon Olsen, for having a karate dojo worth the time and energy to bring him!