Do yourself a favor, cross shop other schools in the area before signing here. At first you will walk in and see words painted on the walls (integrity, respect, discipline). The staff will make you feel this is the place you want to bring your child to encourage them to succeed in the Martial Arts. After some time you will begin to notice cracks in that facade. The testing requirements at the school are nothing more than a formality. I witnessed many belt tests including those of higher ranks. When a brown belt test is the same 2 minute test at the end of class that you gave your orange belts, there is a problem. The testing fees also escalate with each rank ($100's of dollars for higher ranks). For what? A test should be a full demonstration of all mental, physical, and technical abilities to earn a rank. Sandoval promotes anyone who can do 4 basic self defense in quick repetition, regardless of technique. The school does not participate in any education beyond basic punch, kick, a couple of self defense, and 1 Form. No weapons training, no tournament participation, no advanced techniques. When I approached staff about these concerns I was dismissed, including from Allen Sandoval. I would get 1 sentence response to email "we dont do that". He is absent most of the time from his own school. Other schools in town are cheaper, offer a more complete Martial Arts experience, and actually hold these kids accountable to earn a rank. When you go to try and cancel your membership you will realize that within the fog of the initial impressions you failed to catch that the contract you signed is for 6 month commitment with an auto renew for additional 6 month commitments in perpetuity. And there are no exceptions. I asked the staff to have Allen Sandoval call me to discuss this, and was told "I will ask, but I doubt he will". The facade is real. Allen Sandoval has built a business on trapping clients into staying. You would think a man that preaches integrity would want to build a business on loyalty. This is the final crack. Do yourself a favor, look at other schools before falling for this sham. Less

Our daughter started at Sandoval Freestyle Karate about a year & 1/2 ago and it was such a blessing. Mr. Sandoval & the other instructors make the effort to get to know each kid and their families, to create a welcoming and encouraging environment for the students to build confidence and develop persistence when things get difficult. The instructors lead the kids, teaching with patience and kindness- you can tell they all want to be there to teach. We recently moved and the biggest thing our daughter misses are her weekly classes here- although she now tells us that someday she wants to own her own studio! Thank you for investing in the kids so much! It really does make a difference. Less

They’re a good school, but really all they want is your money. They do not care if you don’t show up or that you’re spending hundreds of dollars and can’t make it because of the location. I told them I couldn’t afford it because I got sick and bills are piling up, and they did not care. I told them it’s actually too far to travel and they do not care. Out of around 6 months my daughter has been to 2 lessons, and they do not care. I asked to cancel, but they want the contract to run its course. I was also told that my make up classes are forever, but now I’m told make up classes are only when you’re enrolled. It was a mistake to sign up for six months because you never know what’s going to happen. Less

This is my first experience with a place like this, my son he’s a special need and the stuff was amazing. They treat him very good they take care of him. I was scared if that can be difficult for him because he’s autistic but they do their best to teach him how he do it in the correct way and he really excited he love it a lot and I gonna be with them year after year until he learned everything thank you so much for the amazing stuff. You really kind people. Less

Taking my kids to Sandoval Karate has been an incredible experience. The instructors are not only skilled but also incredibly courteous and attentive. They genuinely care about each child's progress and well-being, which is evident in every class. The dedication of the staff to create a positive and nurturing atmosphere is truly commendable. I highly recommend Sandoval Karate to any parent looking for a place where their children can learn martial arts in a supportive and encouraging environment. Less

I recently enrolled my 4 year old daughter and I must say I’m glad I did! On our first try out class I was worried my girl wouldn’t be able to follow or no attention given but I was wrong. There’s other instructors involved that walk around to make sure every kid is following correctly and learning. I accidentally missed one class and I was provided a pass to make up for later on. I love that they are very flexible with the schedule. She goes twice a week but if I miss one class on one week, we can make up for it the following. I’m looking forward to see my child’s progression. Less

It’s been 5 years. FIVE YEARS. And they are still calling me trying to get me to attend. This woman approached me while I was shopping in Walmart, gave me her card with a free first class, I called later to inquire about regular rates and schedules. It was insanely expensive for a CHILDRENS karate class ($270 or something, as a young single mom) so I was like yeeeeeah, no thank you. But, they kept calling and eventually I blocked the calls or put them on the “silent” list. Something must have changed, a phone number or my settings when I switched phones because they’re right back to calling me with promotions even though I told them forever ago that I wasn’t interested and it was out of budget. I’ve moved out of the valley and my now 8 year old attends Ju Jitsu taught by an amazing veteran martial artist - twice a week, $50 a month. My best advice is to skip the bloated, pushy dojos and look for small, hole-in-the-wall, intimate classes taught by a guy who scares you… just a little bit. (I’d pick our gym over the Gracie’s any day lol ) Less

I would not recommend anyone to this place. Please consider another karate program for your children. This place signs up too many kids that before you know it, there is no place to sit and watch your children as they attend the classes. They also rarely have employees at the front office and it is run by the older kids that attend the karate program. This makes it hard to get any questions answered. The karate instructor is great, but usually he lets the older kids teach the class. On top of that, they make it purposely difficult to cancel the contract and make it so you get locked in to a automatically renewing contract. Please be sure about this place before signing up because they will extend the contract as long as they can without caring about you wanting to cancel and send you to collections if you stop paying. Less

Our very spirited 4 year old has been going to SFK for 2 months now. The difference in his attitude and demeanor is staggering. The staff are extremely knowledgeable and truly love working with children, of all skills and attention spans. They instill the need for respect while anyways maintaining an environment for fun and learning. The classes are well designed for group lessons and they always create the space for one on one instruction. Less

Sandoval Karate is an excellent place for kids and adults. We have had a nothing but great experiences. The staff is friendly and and knowledgeable. My son took classes when he was in the 4-6 y/o class and the lessons and handling of the kids was excellent and they made it fun. We are now back and I am taking the adults class with my son and we love it. Great workout and excellent teaching. Allen Sandoval and his team make sure everyone is learning the proper technique and skills. Definitely recommend. Less

My daughter just started doing karate here and absolutely loves it! After the first day she asked to be signed up! It’s awesome they have a free first month to make sure the kiddos like before you commit. The teachers are great and really make sure all the kids are really learning the moves as well. Definitely a karate school to check out! Very clean facility as well. *** few months into the classes watch out they want money for EVERYTHING! I paid 900 bucks for 6 months thinking all was covered I was WRONG! Good teachers but just want money it seems like every other place. Less

We have loved Sandoval karate! This is our second child enrolled now and our girls have both loved it! We love all of the teachers and how personable they each are. I love that they teach them manners and respect along with teaching them the proper way to protect yourself. They are serious and want you to learn but also include fun games within. There is great communication with Kaylie who is at the front desk , she is always there to help you. Can’t say enough good things about this place! Less

All three of our kiddos have been going to SFK since March of 2021. They were 3, 6, and 11 when they joined. I love the multiple class options, and the ability to make up missed classes if we miss a class due to vacation/illness. There is a great sitting/viewing area for parents/family. So you have a a front row seat to watch your child’s progress. The staff (mainly Kaylee), Mr. Sandoval and all of the other instructors are extremely knowledgeable and patient. Especially for the younger ones. There are always a minimum of 3-5 instructors per class so they can keep an eye out to correct form/behaviors. They are very in touch with the parents, and parents play a key role in determining whether or not your child is ready for their next belt test. They want to ensure that the discipline is crossing over into their personal/home/school lives as well. It is a great way to encourage good behaviors. Our kids have grown and learned so much. My oldest LOVES it and is now determined to get his black belt. Less

Our boys have been going here for just a couple months now after taking advantage of their free one month free trial classes. They have shown immediate improvement in focus and discipline; and they look forward to their weekly classes. The instructors are friendly, yet keep them driven and hold them accountable. (Even the young ones) We are happy we found such a great school so close to home. We love that there is also a viewing area for all parents/family members to sit and watch the classes. Kaylee has also been super helpful and knowledgeable when assisting my wife with make up classes when we were too sick to come. Highly recommend checking it out. Less

The instructors themselves are great, but they rope you in with a free lesson, then bully you into signing a rigid 6 month contract of almost $1,000 (with your kid sitting there, super excited after their first class, everything happening immediately after the free class) and bribe you with a discount on the tshirt if you post a Google review while you’re in their office. The business practice itself is a bit predatory...a $1,000, 6-month contract for a kid’s recreational activity...and they don’t give you any time to process it - it’s right then and there. But, if that doesn’t scare you, the instructors are great and the 30-minute classes 2x per week are convenient. Just pray you don’t move or lose your job or come upon any circumstances that makes something as nonessential as karate now a financial burden, because they don’t have any wiggle room in that contract. Good luck! Less

The instructors themselves are great, but they rope you in with a free lesson, then bully you into signing a rigid 6 month contract of almost $1,000 (with your kid sitting there, super excited after their first class, everything happening immediately after the free class) and bribe you with a discount on the tshirt if you post a Google review while you’re in their office. The business practice itself is a bit predatory...a $1,000, 6-month contract for a kid’s recreational activity...and they don’t give you any time to process it - it’s right then and there. But, if that doesn’t scare you, the instructors are great and the 30-minute classes 2x per week are convenient. Less

We came in for a free trial class for my 2 son's over a year ago. They absolutely loved it! They are both yellow belts now. We signed up for 2 classes a week and the flexible schedule makes it so easy for us to attend classes even if we have a busy week. Sandoval has been more than accommodating during this Covid pandemic. Allowing families the option to put acct/contract on hold during the mandated shut down or continuing virtually. My boys are not only learning karate, they're learning discipline and respect. My older son likes it so much his best friend from school joined too! We're very happy with this studio all around. Definitely recommend! (I do all the time) Less

You could improve by actually caring about the kids, teaching them integrity and respect as well as listening skills. Rather than showing annoyance because a 3-4 yo doesn’t understand what listening skills are. Show them care. Shouldn’t scream at the kids either. Show patience, love, kindness because they are young and moldable. Change your repugnant “contract”. Why is it so impossible to cancel? Why is it signing your life away for a kid to learn discipline. Where is your pandemic clause? Shame on you guys. Less

My son has been going here for about 6 months and he attended for a few years when he was younger. He is a different kid after attending these classes. The staff is kind, attentive and have helped build his confidence. My fiancé also attends the jujitsu classes and absolutely loves it and has found an amazing community at Sandoval. I would highly recommend them to anyone. We’ve had nothing but positive experiences with this business. Less

Salvador freestyle karate was so amazing today.It took a long time for me to sign up with the karate class because of my expectation and how I felt. In the beginning there was rough start with my son , he did not want to join. The staff was amazing they did not pressure him but they made him feel comfortable and wanted. So he did join the class and loved it. I’m so glad and signed up today thank you Salvador freestyle karate for being patient with us and making sure that we were really happy before we join. Less

My son has been attending classes at Sandoval Freestyle Karate in Gilbert for 3 years. The instructors do a great job teaching him the techniques and spending additional time with him when needed. They are amazing teachers and truly care about my son's progress and success. In addition to karate techniques they also instill discipline, and good citizenship, as well as common sense and safety. The new location is great. The studio is always clean and well equipped. I highly recommend. Less

We have had nothing but a great experience so far with Sandoval! The instructors and staff are very friendly and helpful. The instructors really take an interest in each kids success in class. My son has advanced greatly and we’ve noticed an improvement with not only skills but with discipline and listening as well. Would highly recommend for anyone looking for a great karate learning environment. Less

This place is amazing. The teachers definately have a way with the kids. when my daughter first started going her she was so nervous and didn't talk to anyone, they never gave up on her. They continued to work with her and got her out of her shell. She has improved so much with all the support and kindness everyone shows. If you want to feel welcomed and have a great learning experience, this is the place to be. I highly recommend enrolling here. Less

I am just absolutely amazed at the results from enrolling my son in Sandoval Karate! To be honest, him and I were first highly intimidated and nervous; maybe more me and than him. I was scared for him because he’s sooooo crazy shy and sensitive and I’m seeing these other skilled kids with confidence and strength and I see my little scared boy but we survived. Now him and I have something to distract us from recent hard changes we faced and I love seeing him get so excited to rush to karate after school. The trainers are amazing and they were not aggressive with him and showed great patience but also showed him discipline and really helped him build his self esteem. I know I’m overly writing for this review but It’s because I’m that grateful for the GILBERT Sandoval Karate. Thank you for helping my son! Less

My son has had a great experience at Sandoval. We’ve seen a lot of positive changes with him. He has gone from being a sometimes silly goof off in school to as his teacher put it “a peer model”. This is the second place we’ve tried and like it a lot more. It seems like they have higher standards and can manage busy classes well. Every child seems to have a high level of attention from the instructors. Only thing I would like to see would be more seating for parents. Because the place is so popular it can get a bit crowded in the observation room. Less

Do not get hoaxed into signing up under a contract with this company! There unethical business that only cares about making money! They moved a great distance father from our house and it was already difficult to get there 2 times a week with such busy family priorities and they said we can cancel contract. Then they moved and we tried it a couple times, but it was just to far! They didn't even give a 30 day notice that they were moving, but expected one from us!!! now they sent me to collections and want me to pay off the contract even though we areeven going absolutely unacceptable. Also they can take off days and you still have to pay them. They say you can do a make up class when already we don't have enough time to go 2 days now they want you to pay even though they took off and want you to do 3 days to make up!! Allan Sandoval called me back and left the rudest message and was insistent that I had to finish the contract! when i told him of the things i witnessed about his instructors he was so defensive! That not what a great business karate instructor leader should act like especially to someone who's paid thousands of dollars in auto drafts to his studio! Also my My son was going there for over a year and there's so much favoritism!! He showed up late on a few occasions to the farther new studio and they straight broke him off with push ups then few kids come right after him by 5-10 min even more late and they let kids get straight in line such bad examples!!! I watched it all happen right in front of me. When I left a message explaining this he basically called me a liar and said there's no way his instructors would ever act like this! I seen it with my own eyes! there's no reason for me to make this up!!! Also Kids would get belts and tips and not even have there hands up to to protect there face and then my son on several occasions does so good and I watch him and so proud of him and they don't give him a tip or belt! One time they made him due 30min of intensive exercise till he was balling so bad in front of all the parents and other students. Making him feel so bad about this place that he never wanted to come back again and hates karate! To make matters worse they also took his belt away for 3 weeks all because after class was dismissed he was dancing playfully in the mirror. I understand discipline but this was way over the line especially because class was dismissed and they made him feel so embarrassed in front of everyone. Even the parents were saying this is so wrong!!! Plus I looked around other studios and lots are way less and also don't try to lock you in a contract!! Do not go to this business and tell your friends or you may be the next one dealing with $1,000+ dollars of canceled contract collections and writing their next bad review! look how many bad reviews this place has it's not a coincidence! all the good ones are probably the kids they show favor to like the ones who i see come late and don't have to get broke off when my son is! Less

TLDR: Really liked the instructors and staff but really don't like policy for 6 month auto-renew as I'm out $900 for a service we don't want. I signed my 3 year old daughter up for 6 month's (that's the only option) in June and after just a few lessons it was apparent (anxiety, tears, teeth grinding, panic when the topic comes up) that it wasn't for her and we stopped going. We haven't been back since August. I understand that we committed for six months and didn't try to ask for a refund or to cancel future classes, I gambled on the whims of a very small child and lost. I was all set to give our notice and I messed up, the 30 day mark (11/6) came and went and I didn't call in until a few days past my deadline (11/17 note, before the new contract started on 12/6) and was told "tough luck" so now in addition to the mostly unused credit of $900 I paid for the first six months I have the pleasure of paying them another $900 for a service our actions clearly indicated we don't want. I understand that this is my fault but I feel like I was trapped into renewing and that a policy of opting into another term would ensure only families that want another term are committed would be WAY better model than requiring a customer to opt out. I have recommended Sandoval to several parents, the coaches and support staff are exceptional and will sign my son up when he is old enough if he shows an interest. Granted, I will set a calendar reminder for the notice date in case he doesn't like it either. Less