My son started karate at age 6. He is in purple belt now. Great teachers. He likes to attend classes daily!!

We love this dojo! We went through several before luckily finding this one. My son has learned and developed so much here over the last 4 years. Sensei Harriday teaches the kids self-discipline and respect while also building their confidence. I have no doubt my son will earn his black belt when he is ready in a few years.

My boys just started attending Harriday's at the beginning of the school year. They go to after-care there, and take lessons 2-3 days a week. First, the after-care experience has been fantastic. They've worked closely with our kids on getting homework done. They've even made a few breakthroughs with sight-words for our kindergartener that we've struggled to have much success with. Second, th... More

My boys just started attending Harriday's at the beginning of the school year. They go to after-care there, and take lessons 2-3 days a week. First, the after-care experience has been fantastic. They've worked closely with our kids on getting homework done. They've even made a few breakthroughs with sight-words for our kindergartener that we've struggled to have much success with. Second, the lessons.. The boys have already earned their gold belts, and we were impressed by how much they needed to demonstrate in order to receive them. They could go through routines with precision, even knowing the Japanese calls and responses. When put on the spot, they answered gracefully and confidently. We fully realized then for the first time that the lessons weren't an add-on activity to after-school care, and that they were really working hard there. Finally, I would recommend them for character building and discipline. The boys are 8 and 5, and as such, don't always have the best listening skills. They've been particularly challenging over the last couple years, and we've gone through several other processes to try to get behavior under control. We hoped that karate could instill a sense of discipline that they sorely needed. We noticed a difference after just a couple weeks of going there. Out of nowhere, we'd hear yes sir, or yes ma'am, and just about dropped to the floor the first time one of them did. Harriday's has also taken behavior reports from us and used them in their lessons, teaching them respect and self-control. It hasn't been a magic switch, but they are learning and improving, which we greatly appreciate. So far, it's been a great experience, and we highly recommend their services. Less

My son has been doing karate at Harriday’s for several years now, and it’s been absolutely wonderful for him. We enrolled him for the same reasons many other parents did—we felt that the discipline and focus that karate helps to develop would be good for him. He is more confident, more focused, and loves going to karate. I can’t thank the Harridays enough. They are patient, understand and care ... More

My son has been doing karate at Harriday’s for several years now, and it’s been absolutely wonderful for him. We enrolled him for the same reasons many other parents did—we felt that the discipline and focus that karate helps to develop would be good for him. He is more confident, more focused, and loves going to karate. I can’t thank the Harridays enough. They are patient, understand and care about all of their students, and provide a positive learning environment that challenges kids (and adults) to be their best selves. My son has also participated in their drop-in camps and after-school care and really enjoys his time there. The dojo is clean and comfortable for both students and observers. The senseis are all great—the ones who teach the kids’ classes use humor and patience to encourage and develop the students. We looked around at several other studios in Columbia, and there are some great ones, but Harriday’s was the best fit for my son. He loves it, and we love how great it has been for him. Less

Best martial arts dojo we have ever found, and we tried a lot of different ones. Serious work and serious learning

My son has been going for 4 years now and we can’t say enough wonderful things. It has been so good for him!!

I highly recommended this place

My son loves Harriday’s! He has gained self confidence and focus, and he enjoys learning new skills. We’re so glad to have found Harriday’s. There are several good martial arts studios in the Columbia/Ellicott City area, and if you’re looking to enroll yourself or your child in a martial arts class, I’d encourage you to give Harriday’s a try. The Senseis emphasize positive attitudes, hard work,... More

My son loves Harriday’s! He has gained self confidence and focus, and he enjoys learning new skills. We’re so glad to have found Harriday’s. There are several good martial arts studios in the Columbia/Ellicott City area, and if you’re looking to enroll yourself or your child in a martial arts class, I’d encourage you to give Harriday’s a try. The Senseis emphasize positive attitudes, hard work, and discipline. Less

I am so grateful for Mr and Mrs. Harriday and their wonderful summer camp. My son has flourished there and is even asking can he continue through the school year with their karate program. They are both warm and welcoming and Cameron has nothing but great things to say about his time there every evening.

We have had SUCH a positive experience with Harriday Karate. Our son has historically had trouble with attention and focus, but Harriday karate is the perfect mix of positive reinforcement and discipline. Our son loves it! Would highly recommend!

My son started with Sensai Harriday about six months ago. My son enjoys training and has come to love karate. Sensai Harriday is very patient and works well with all the children. It shows that Sensai Harriday truly cares about the children. I highly recommend this program.

The instructors are great with the kids. They clearly love teaching Karate to kids and are very patient with the ones that don't get something on the first try or two. The facility is clean and very well organized. My child absolutely loves it and asked why we didn't start it in Kindergarten. The instructors keep the sessions regimented and orderly. They are able to get squirmy kids who don't li... More

The instructors are great with the kids. They clearly love teaching Karate to kids and are very patient with the ones that don't get something on the first try or two. The facility is clean and very well organized. My child absolutely loves it and asked why we didn't start it in Kindergarten. The instructors keep the sessions regimented and orderly. They are able to get squirmy kids who don't listen well to follow instructions while being nice about it. My child has learned many skills already and we've only been going for a month. Less

Highly recommended. The instructors are focused and caring. The school is organized, clean and fun. The administrator is very helpful. The students are well mannered and the parents are supportive and engaging. Definitely a commitment to make for the long run. Try it out!!

Positive behavior reinforcement in a serious black belt school in a supportive family environment.

My son Joshua has been learning karate under professional instructions at Harriday's Karate and Fitness for the past 1 year. Our goal was for him to not only learn the karate but also to learn how to be focused, disciplined and to be a leader. I can say with confidence that we have seen these skills develop along with his knowledge of martial arts. Harriday's instructors have a wonderful suppor... More

My son Joshua has been learning karate under professional instructions at Harriday's Karate and Fitness for the past 1 year. Our goal was for him to not only learn the karate but also to learn how to be focused, disciplined and to be a leader. I can say with confidence that we have seen these skills develop along with his knowledge of martial arts. Harriday's instructors have a wonderful support with kids of all ages as well as adults and are able to get the best out of their students. It has been a great partnership working with Harriday's Karate and Fitness to ensure my son is learning and growing physically and mentally in a fun yet challenging environment through his study of karate and martial arts. I highly recommend this martial arts school. Less

Great school and people. The karate, facility and leadership is excellent.

We are big fans of Harriday's Karate and fitness. My son Rahsaan's confidence, discipline, and efforts at school have all improved significantly since we enrolled him at the school. All of the Sensei's show tremendous patience and skills with teaching kids of all ages and backgrounds. We are so happy we've found the school, and look forward Sensei Harriday guiding our son to the level of Blackbel... More

We are big fans of Harriday's Karate and fitness. My son Rahsaan's confidence, discipline, and efforts at school have all improved significantly since we enrolled him at the school. All of the Sensei's show tremendous patience and skills with teaching kids of all ages and backgrounds. We are so happy we've found the school, and look forward Sensei Harriday guiding our son to the level of Blackbelt! Less

Absolutely the best! My 8 year old son loves Harriday's. Not only are the people wonderful but their instruction is age appropriate and fun, with a focus on teaching discipline and control. We looked at several karate studios in the area and this one stood out among them all. They really make you feel like part of a family.

My son has been going to Harriday's Karate since he was 4 (now 6) and I have been beyond impressed with the way the Harridays treat their students. Not only do they teach self defense but my son's discipline and focus have gotten so much better. We're very grateful.

My children have attended Harriday's Karate and Fitness for years and have loved their time at Mr. Harriday's Dojo. Mr. Harriday and his wife couldn't be kinder or better role models for your children. If you want your children to learn to be confident and self-controlled while becoming incredibly physically fit, this is the place for you!

My son has been learning at Harriday's Karate and Fitness for five years now. His two younger sisters have been training a little less than that. I whole-heartedly recommend this dojo! I am so very pleased with how much my children have learned and how far they've progressed! This is a family run business. The students learn more than just how to punch, kick and block. The teachers emphasiz... More

My son has been learning at Harriday's Karate and Fitness for five years now. His two younger sisters have been training a little less than that. I whole-heartedly recommend this dojo! I am so very pleased with how much my children have learned and how far they've progressed! This is a family run business. The students learn more than just how to punch, kick and block. The teachers emphasize to the students that a martial artist always uses courtesy and respect when dealing with others. In the dojo, students are reminded to maintain focus and self-control. My children have ADHD, and it can be difficult for them to remain focused and under control. However, the teachers here use wonderful classroom management techniques that combine accountability, patience, humor and respect to help each student strive for their personal best. Each sensei gets to know each student personally, and pays attention to his/her strengths and weaknesses. I remain impressed with how well instructors (especially head sensei Charles Harriday) know when to push and when to give extra support to the students. There is some variance in teaching styles between the teachers, and I feel those minor differences complement each other to further enhance each child's education. Classes here are organized and well run. There are clear goals and skills for students at each level, and they are given a booklet to take home that lists these requirements out for them. Students advance in belt levels only when they have learned enough to earn the next belt. As they move up in level, students are encouraged to develop their own leadership skills as they help train lower level students. Harriday's also provides many opportunities for students to participate at tournaments, training seminars and conclaves. They often provide all-day sessions in the summer or on days when there is no school, as well as the occasional "Parent's Night Out." With all these opportunities, students are welcome, but there is no pressure if your family chooses not to participate. If you are considering martial arts for your child, I highly encourage you to check out Harriday's Karate and Fitness!! Less

First I registered my son and now I have enrolled Harridays make you feel like family

My son has been learning karate under very experienced and professional instruction at Harriday's Karate and Fitness for the past 5 years. He started at the age of five and our goal was for him to not only learn the art of karate but also to learn how to be focused, disciplined and to be a leader. I can say with confidence that we have seen these skills develop along with his knowledge of marti... More

My son has been learning karate under very experienced and professional instruction at Harriday's Karate and Fitness for the past 5 years. He started at the age of five and our goal was for him to not only learn the art of karate but also to learn how to be focused, disciplined and to be a leader. I can say with confidence that we have seen these skills develop along with his knowledge of martial arts. Harriday's instructors have a wonderful rapport with kids of all ages as well as adults and are able to get the best out of their students. It has been a great partnership working with Harriday's Karate and Fitness to ensure my son is learning and growing physically and mentally in a fun yet challenging environment through his study of karate and martial arts. I highly recommend this martial arts school. Less

My son hated athletics. We tried enrolling him in several sports programs including football and soccer, but he never seemed to be able to break out of his shell. With the help of Sensei Harriday and the other incredible instructors, he has learned and continues to learn self confidence, discipline, and respect. He is no longer sitting on the sidelines watching the game of life, he is playing in ... More

My son hated athletics. We tried enrolling him in several sports programs including football and soccer, but he never seemed to be able to break out of his shell. With the help of Sensei Harriday and the other incredible instructors, he has learned and continues to learn self confidence, discipline, and respect. He is no longer sitting on the sidelines watching the game of life, he is playing in it without fear. The Sensei has great patience and genuinely cares about not only teaching his students karate, but also shaping them as people.You become a part of the family as soon as you walk in through the door. Less

Both of my kids (8 and 5) recently joined and they LOVE IT!!!!! Each week they look forward to attending class. I'm so glad I made the decision to start them here. It's a great investment and an excellent establishment. ☺️☺️☺️

Keep up the great work and my God continue to bless your business.

Since starting with Harriday's our son has gained confidence, maturity, and focus. Sensei Harriday and all of the instructors show a genuine concern and caring for each student. They truly want each student to get better and succeed in and outside the dojo. I would highly recommend Harriday's Karate and Fitness to any family considering starting their kid(s) in karate.

Amazing family setting. My son has been going to Harriday's for two years now ( started at 4) and has learned respect and great discipline! Sensei Harriday is great with the kids and I would recommend to anyone interested in getting their children into Karate

Great environment, and exceptional instruction and professionalism! As a gym owner and trainer that works with athletes and people of all types; I have been impressed with the Harriday's from day 1! Our kids love it there!

Mr. Harriday is fantastic with the kids. My 4 year old son has always had issues understanding and processing verbal instructions but Mr. Harraday is patient and consistently positive with him. He's learning skills beyond martial arts in a safe, happy, and supportive environment.

It gives focus and discipline to our children.

Great family setting! Kids learn great values and have fun along the way on their quest for excellence.

My son has been with Sensei Harriday since he was 3 years old. He's 12 now, and recently earned his brown belt. As he got older and more involved, we've come to fully realize the value of the karate training that is offered at Harriday's. Charles and Patricia, along with their son, Stefan, work hard to keep each student motivated to be the best individual person they can be, both at the dojo a... More

My son has been with Sensei Harriday since he was 3 years old. He's 12 now, and recently earned his brown belt. As he got older and more involved, we've come to fully realize the value of the karate training that is offered at Harriday's. Charles and Patricia, along with their son, Stefan, work hard to keep each student motivated to be the best individual person they can be, both at the dojo and outside. They expect a lot of their students, and know how to support and teach them so that they can meet those expectations. They also inspire a healthy type of competition between the students. Harriday's is a wonderful resource to help you raise a strong, confident child! Less

I cannot say enough great things about Harriday's Karate and Fitness. My son has been studying here since 2010 and is still going strong. Harriday's is a family owned and run business, but they are more than a business they are like family to me. Karate has helped to teach my son focus and self control and so much more. I started karate 2 years ago and haven't stopped since. It has helped me... More

I cannot say enough great things about Harriday's Karate and Fitness. My son has been studying here since 2010 and is still going strong. Harriday's is a family owned and run business, but they are more than a business they are like family to me. Karate has helped to teach my son focus and self control and so much more. I started karate 2 years ago and haven't stopped since. It has helped me not only physically, but mentally as well. It has also increased my self confidence and I see a difference in my work life as a result. I cannot thank them enough for what they have done for my son and I. Less

If you are looking for a karate school where the entire staff knows and cares about your child, then this is the school for you! We came from another martial arts school where the experience was ok--but Harriday's is truly extraordinary. Mr. Harriday and his son Stefan take a lot of time to encourage each student and motivate each one to push to be their best. This is definitely not a school ... More

If you are looking for a karate school where the entire staff knows and cares about your child, then this is the school for you! We came from another martial arts school where the experience was ok--but Harriday's is truly extraordinary. Mr. Harriday and his son Stefan take a lot of time to encourage each student and motivate each one to push to be their best. This is definitely not a school which feels like a factory, passing along the students with a high turnover. Students tend to stay because they know that all three Harriday's care about them and want them to excel. The school is well organized and well run. Each week, students know ahead of time what they will be focusing on: sparring or forms. In addition, students can attend a weapons class 2-3 times a month at no additional charge. This is a school which is run by a family who loves martial arts, loves teaching, and where "going above and beyond" for the students is the norm. Less

It's been an awesome experience for my son. He is a slow learner, but Sensei and his team have been very patient with him. He looks forward to going to practice, and is eager to get his next belt. We love the family environment, and are so glad we found Harriday's Karate and Fitness. Try it for yourself; you will not be disappointed!!