based on 53 reviews
This place is phenomenal. I love how positive the energy is when you walk in and have a lot of respect for the instructors as they do have for me and others there.
Excellent
My two kiddos just started the Tigers Basic program for 3 months. This program also comes with a uniform. My children are aged 5g& 7b. I was looking for an extracurricular activity to teach my kids about discipline, focus and hard work. We’ve only been attending for a few weeks, but I can already see the changes in my kids under the guidance of Levi.Not only are they enjoying learning martial art... More
My two kiddos just started the Tigers Basic program for 3 months. This program also comes with a uniform. My children are aged 5g& 7b. I was looking for an extracurricular activity to teach my kids about discipline, focus and hard work. We’ve only been attending for a few weeks, but I can already see the changes in my kids under the guidance of Levi.Not only are they enjoying learning martial arts, but their leader Levi, also gives the kids life lessons about controlling their body, mind and emotions. It’s been a joy to see my children take these lessons and apply both their life lessons and maneuvers at home. Less
Thank you Master Jones, for the amazing mind and body training. And also being so patient with me.
My kid loves going for karate in their tiny tigers class. Levi sir is absolutely amazing with kids. I look up to him & would love to have his skill & patience with kids. My kid did not want to go at all after the 1st trial class. Levi sir helped him adjust & enjoy while maintaining discipline. Now he's excited about every class. Each class is engaging & helps the kids develop different skills - s... More
My kid loves going for karate in their tiny tigers class. Levi sir is absolutely amazing with kids. I look up to him & would love to have his skill & patience with kids. My kid did not want to go at all after the 1st trial class. Levi sir helped him adjust & enjoy while maintaining discipline. Now he's excited about every class. Each class is engaging & helps the kids develop different skills - strength, focus, patience, balance, discipline. Levi sir's the reason I'm willing to travel to a class further from home than other available options. Thank you soo much Levi Sir & AKMA!! Less
Sharing our experience with the Academy of Kempo Martial Arts, where our 5-year-old has been receiving exceptional training under the guidance of Levi. The impact on my son has been truly remarkable, not only has he been developing physical strength, but the training has also played a pivotal role in his mental growth, fostering patience, empathy, gratitude, and self-discipline. Levi’s approach... More
Sharing our experience with the Academy of Kempo Martial Arts, where our 5-year-old has been receiving exceptional training under the guidance of Levi. The impact on my son has been truly remarkable, not only has he been developing physical strength, but the training has also played a pivotal role in his mental growth, fostering patience, empathy, gratitude, and self-discipline. Levi’s approach to working with children is awesome! His patience, dedication, and ability to create a supportive environment have made a significant difference in my son's experience. Levi takes the time to understand each student, providing tailored support and encouragement. It's heartening to see my son eagerly anticipate each class, a testament to the positive and engaging atmosphere created by Levi and the Academy. The progress we've witnessed has been impressive that we've committed to a two-year enrollment after initially starting with a six-month trial period. I wholeheartedly recommend the Academy of Kempo Martial Arts to any parent seeking a nurturing and empowering environment for their child's physical and mental development. Less
So bad saar
My son loved his first training class and he is excited to join his classes from next week and iam hoping that he learns something new and brings some change in him Thank you 😊
My kids love the training with you and are excited to learn more
Training at academy of kempo martial arts is one of the best choices I have made. Everyone is welcoming and makes you feel comfortable. As a child I struggled with low self esteem that effected my confidence into adulthood, since I've started training here a few years ago I can not only feel proud of how far I've come but I'm confident in my still growing ability to protect myself. If you're thin... More
Training at academy of kempo martial arts is one of the best choices I have made. Everyone is welcoming and makes you feel comfortable. As a child I struggled with low self esteem that effected my confidence into adulthood, since I've started training here a few years ago I can not only feel proud of how far I've come but I'm confident in my still growing ability to protect myself. If you're thinking about training here or having your child train here I 10/10 would highly recommend! Less
I stayed at kempo for 5 years I learned a lot and enjoyed it but after a while everything we learned almost nothing new and even had way less sparring practice. It used to be hard gaining new belts and achieving the black belt but nowadays everybody is given belts and false status when not being up to the level they should be. It’s basically just selling colored beltsThis place used to be great b... More
I stayed at kempo for 5 years I learned a lot and enjoyed it but after a while everything we learned almost nothing new and even had way less sparring practice. It used to be hard gaining new belts and achieving the black belt but nowadays everybody is given belts and false status when not being up to the level they should be. It’s basically just selling colored beltsThis place used to be great but is no longer. Would not recommend joining currently if you wanna learn how to really fight and protect yourself. Less
I would recommend starting at the beginning! Benefits: honesty, Integrity, respect, self-discipline, self-reliance and positive mental attitude!
Kids learn discipline, self defense and much more.
Levi is an awesome leader and great with the kids and so r the teachers as well. :) They do well with working on getting the kids attention and encouraging the kids to do their best. I love taking my kid there and I would definitely recommend it this place. :)
so fun
Levi took extra time to work with my nephew which I thought was extra special and awesome of him as a sensei
What I particularly like about this place is they genuinely care about the students. Not only do they teach the techniques but also discipline, self control self confidence and they talk about how to achieve these things and make sure they are improving and are comfortable with everything that is being taught.
We love training at AKMA. The Zoom classes have gotten us through the pandemic but we can't wait to get back to in person training.
Training at academy of kempo martial arts is one of the best choices I have made. Everyone is welcoming and makes you feel comfortable. As a child I struggled with low self esteem that effected my confidence into adulthood, since I've started training here a few months ago I can not only feel proud of how far I've come but I'm confident in my still growing ability to protect myself. If you're thi... More
Training at academy of kempo martial arts is one of the best choices I have made. Everyone is welcoming and makes you feel comfortable. As a child I struggled with low self esteem that effected my confidence into adulthood, since I've started training here a few months ago I can not only feel proud of how far I've come but I'm confident in my still growing ability to protect myself. If you're thinking about training here or having your child train here I 10/10 would highly recommend! Less
All the instructors are friendly and really helpful.
The place looks and smells old but I don't care because my 4yo son really enjoys the lessons. The website is like nothing to be with the place. It's hard because he doesn't want to go but once there, he really enjoys it. It was difficult at the beginning because the teachers are very strict on following directions, which was the reason I starting sending him there. Now that we have been attending... More
The place looks and smells old but I don't care because my 4yo son really enjoys the lessons. The website is like nothing to be with the place. It's hard because he doesn't want to go but once there, he really enjoys it. It was difficult at the beginning because the teachers are very strict on following directions, which was the reason I starting sending him there. Now that we have been attending for several weeks, he behaves much better and follows the class. The best teacher is Fernando, he really knows how to deal with kids. He is funny and when he is in charge of the class is when my son enjoyed it the best. I bought a Groupon which included the 20 lessons, the uniform and two private lessons. I had to ask several times for the uniform and, at the moment that we are almost finishing the 20 lessons, nobody talk to me about the private lessons Less
I think any school teaching a complex physical skill takes its character from its leader. Master Jones is an outstanding teacher; dedicated, supportive, rigorous ...and often very funny, but always in the service of making a point. The school attracts both instructors and students who are a joy to learn with. When I started after my 60th birthday my stated goal, with a touch of irony, was "black ... More
I think any school teaching a complex physical skill takes its character from its leader. Master Jones is an outstanding teacher; dedicated, supportive, rigorous ...and often very funny, but always in the service of making a point. The school attracts both instructors and students who are a joy to learn with. When I started after my 60th birthday my stated goal, with a touch of irony, was "black belt by 70". And now to my surprise it feels possible. Thanks to you all, AKMA. Less
When I found Master Jones, I began my journey with a goal of building strength. I had never tried anything like this and was a bit nervous about what would be required. Since October, this man and this studio has changed my life. It has given me so much more than strength. It has built confidence, taught me new skills, and helped me learn more about myself and what I am capable of more than a... More
When I found Master Jones, I began my journey with a goal of building strength. I had never tried anything like this and was a bit nervous about what would be required. Since October, this man and this studio has changed my life. It has given me so much more than strength. It has built confidence, taught me new skills, and helped me learn more about myself and what I am capable of more than any other type of training I have done in the past. I am so grateful for having found him and the lovely group of people at the AKMA studio that have truly changed my life in the most positive way. Thank you!!! Less
Good people working there. My daughter very like the teacher.
Getting my son (Mr. Jones) into the martial arts was the best thing I could have done for him. He is a powerful teacher and example setter!
My son (4 years old) enjoyed his martial arts class in Kempo Martial Arts. The instructors were very patient and encouraging. The classes are so fun that not only the kids enjoy them, but I also can't control myself from smiling when watching the class. It's a pity that we have to leave the class due to moving, but I will definitely recommend the Kempo to everyone who would love to find a great p... More
My son (4 years old) enjoyed his martial arts class in Kempo Martial Arts. The instructors were very patient and encouraging. The classes are so fun that not only the kids enjoy them, but I also can't control myself from smiling when watching the class. It's a pity that we have to leave the class due to moving, but I will definitely recommend the Kempo to everyone who would love to find a great place to learn martial arts. Less
The classes are awesome. I'm in better shape and have grown in my ability to protect myself. The instructors are patient and fun. The other students are welcoming. This is a great place to learn self-defense!
I have been training here for going on 4 years. My fitness improves with every class and my skill has progressed in areas I really never thought possible. AKMA has something for everyone. The instructors truly understand how to motivate and educate simultaneously. If you are ready to sweat and gain new skills this is definitely the place!
I've trained this style & others. Nothing compares to this studio! The training is more than improving your body, it's improving your mind, reflexes; it puts you in touch with who you really are.
My wife and daughter both study kung fu here (kids and adult classes are separate). My wife really likes the adult program and writes: “I researched many different martial arts schools before deciding on the Academy of Kempo Martial Arts. I chose AKMA because it is so different than the others. The adult program consists of BOTH private lessons and group classes. Unlike some other schools tha... More
My wife and daughter both study kung fu here (kids and adult classes are separate). My wife really likes the adult program and writes: “I researched many different martial arts schools before deciding on the Academy of Kempo Martial Arts. I chose AKMA because it is so different than the others. The adult program consists of BOTH private lessons and group classes. Unlike some other schools that expect you to learn everything in a group setting, AKMA gives you private lessons (weekly for beginners) as part of the set price, and they encourage you to utilize those private lessons. There’s no extra fee for that private instruction or belt tests. They also tailor your program to suit your individual needs. If you have a chronic injury like I do, they modify the techniques so that you still can defend yourself without injuring yourself. When I started, my youngest child was still home with me, but AKMA has a kids’ room where my daughter played while I had my lessons. At AKMA, they know every person who walks through their door. You are not just one of many. That’s what sets them apart.” Less
My kids love this place - it build character and important life skills in a very interactive way. The experiences is personalized to each kid. Both kids (5 and 6 y/o) enjoy going to the classes and look forward to earning the new stripes/belts. We really appreciate instructors focus on the whole person. This month they are learning about stranger danger in a very tangible way - I feel that they c... More
My kids love this place - it build character and important life skills in a very interactive way. The experiences is personalized to each kid. Both kids (5 and 6 y/o) enjoy going to the classes and look forward to earning the new stripes/belts. We really appreciate instructors focus on the whole person. This month they are learning about stranger danger in a very tangible way - I feel that they can apply these skills right away and be more prepared to deal with different types of situations. My daughter is very outgoing, she benefits from the emphasis on focus and balance. My son needs to learn how to be more self-confident - instructors are helping her to be more comfortable in different situations. My husband and I love observing the class and how instructors interact with kids. Every class is very dynamic and goes really fast. Less
We have two kids (5 and 6) - our kids are the complete opposite of each other. Our daughter needs to learn how to focus and our son needs to learn confidence. We love that the class is addressing both issues for our kiddos. Besides teaching kids how to focus, helping them develop self-confidence and memory, they also learn important life skills (e.g. stranger danger). The classes are very dynamic... More
We have two kids (5 and 6) - our kids are the complete opposite of each other. Our daughter needs to learn how to focus and our son needs to learn confidence. We love that the class is addressing both issues for our kiddos. Besides teaching kids how to focus, helping them develop self-confidence and memory, they also learn important life skills (e.g. stranger danger). The classes are very dynamic and fun. We practice some of the games at home ("clean up your room" game works every time!) Kids are really enjoying the classes and we see immediate changes in their behavior. They even talk about things they learn at school (and practice some of the self-defence moves). Less
Excellent learning place. The staff is cooperative and always reviewing my needs and goals towards my learning process. Not a typical teaching process and that is ok because the art needs that method of teaching. Lot of confidence inspiring and support from the staff. Master Jones and Mr. Chase (primary instructors) are very knowledgable and motivating.
I was looking for a fitness program that could keep me engaged. I had tried going to the Gym and found it too mechanistic. I was seeking something more holistic, something that was broad and would keep me engaged and learning for years to come. I've been active for over a year with the academy. The culture is built around humility, mutual respect and support. The emphasis is on growth & ... More
I was looking for a fitness program that could keep me engaged. I had tried going to the Gym and found it too mechanistic. I was seeking something more holistic, something that was broad and would keep me engaged and learning for years to come. I've been active for over a year with the academy. The culture is built around humility, mutual respect and support. The emphasis is on growth & mastery and not on achievement. The master & instructors make learning the techniques seem easy. I feel I have found what I was searching for. I intend to stay in the art & continue practicing and learning in the years to come. I would highly recommend the academy to anybody who is looking for sustained physical fitness and mental alertness. Less
I began training at AKMA in Bellevue about two years ago, a few months shy of my 55th birthday. I had no previous experience in any martial art. My experience at AKMA has been completely positive. The basic program consists of individual lessons and "skills classes". There is plenty of "open" time where the mats are available for you to work out on your own, at no extra charge. The progr... More
I began training at AKMA in Bellevue about two years ago, a few months shy of my 55th birthday. I had no previous experience in any martial art. My experience at AKMA has been completely positive. The basic program consists of individual lessons and "skills classes". There is plenty of "open" time where the mats are available for you to work out on your own, at no extra charge. The program is certainly strenuous, but also emphasizes safety. It is a "non-contact" studio. You learn sound fighting skills and practice them with your partner in skills class, but in a controlled fashion, holding your strikes just short. Full contact strikes are practiced on heavy bags. After a time in the program, you're allowed to free spar, but it's light contact. High-belt sparring is nearly full speed and blocks are full contact (with pads) but again, the strikes themselves are held short. Because of this emphasis on safety, which I've learned is a time-honored tradition in Kung Fu, as opposed to some other of the martial arts, injuries at AKMA are rare and almost always minor. The instructors are friendly and sincere and work well with all ages. There is an atmosphere of mutual encouragement and cooperation among the students, again, I think, because of the emphasis on safety. Any marital arts training has huge health benefits, in cardio, flexibility, balance, and strength. If you're looking to train, or to get your kids started training in a safe environment, AMKA is a fine choice. Dave Williams Less
It was a little over a year ago when I joined AKMA. I was suffering from my anxiety disorder in an unnecessarily hostile work environment and dealing with the strain provided by elements of my personal life. My hope was that by practicing martial arts I would learn to channel that energy in a more positive way. Going to the academy provided me not only the positive outlet I sought, but also a ... More
It was a little over a year ago when I joined AKMA. I was suffering from my anxiety disorder in an unnecessarily hostile work environment and dealing with the strain provided by elements of my personal life. My hope was that by practicing martial arts I would learn to channel that energy in a more positive way. Going to the academy provided me not only the positive outlet I sought, but also a place that feels like a second home and a community of people who feel like a part of my family. Recently, my financial situation became rather dire and I was no longer able to afford going to the academy. When Master Jones realized I was not showing up anymore he contacted me and told me that there is "no reason" I shouldn't still come to class. He recognized my love and determination for the art but moreover the bond formed from practicing it with other people. These are not money-centric business people who pretend to be martial artists. This is a community of people formed around a common passion who understand and treat everyone who walks through their doors as a human being. As such, they deserve the same respect. Should you decide to see AKMA for yourself you will find that if you care for the people and care for the art that it is not hard to fit in there. People from all walks of life, ethnicities, religions and age all gather here to form a bond through a common interest: self-improvement. It is a positive journey, no matter the negative elements in the path of your life. It is a journey I highly recommend you take. Less
I've been a student at AKMA for ten years and I can honestly say that my training here has changed my life. I originally joined to learn some cool moves, but it has become so much more than that. My training bleeds into all aspects of my life, both physically and mentally, and really helps me live a healthy lifestyle. My basketball game has certainly improved, and there are even benefits to my... More
I've been a student at AKMA for ten years and I can honestly say that my training here has changed my life. I originally joined to learn some cool moves, but it has become so much more than that. My training bleeds into all aspects of my life, both physically and mentally, and really helps me live a healthy lifestyle. My basketball game has certainly improved, and there are even benefits to my career. I love how I can find my limits and then push past them, getting physically fit and learning a practical skill at the same time. I'm also the father of three young boys -- my oldest, age 7, is in the youth class. The increased confidence and fitness he gains will serve him very well at this young age. His mind will be sharper, helping at school, and he's going to have a huge advantage in sports. We really enjoy spending time practicing our kung fu together. It's a fun way to bond. I can't wait for his little brothers to join us! Less
Kempo Martial Arts is awesome! I have been a member for a number of years. My son and daughter started coming and they have had a great time. Learning a lot, getting fit and looking great at it all at the same time. It also gives us something in common to work on together. Sometimes the kids are stubborn and don't want to go but afterwards they always say they had a good time and like it. An... More
Kempo Martial Arts is awesome! I have been a member for a number of years. My son and daughter started coming and they have had a great time. Learning a lot, getting fit and looking great at it all at the same time. It also gives us something in common to work on together. Sometimes the kids are stubborn and don't want to go but afterwards they always say they had a good time and like it. An additional benefit is my wife and I noticed their attitudes and overall behavior is better as well. Compliments to AKMA. Great program, great support and fun for all of us. Come join us! Less
I'll have to agree that using a contract and forcing people to pay even when they cannot come or want to stop is a bad choice. We went to check it out and they agreed they'd let us do a "trial" for $160 for the two of us (married couple) to come to a private lesson and one group class. We tried out one class, and decided it wasn't for us, but, it was too late. We couldn't get any of that back, o... More
I'll have to agree that using a contract and forcing people to pay even when they cannot come or want to stop is a bad choice. We went to check it out and they agreed they'd let us do a "trial" for $160 for the two of us (married couple) to come to a private lesson and one group class. We tried out one class, and decided it wasn't for us, but, it was too late. We couldn't get any of that back, obviously, but that was okay - still way too much for just a trial. The other three schools we tried out let us do a trial class or two for free - check with other schools too, we found a great one on the Eastside doing Kyokushin Karate with NO contract and at a reasonable price. We didn't sign up for any more classes because it was far to expensive for us (over $200 per month, per person), and I thought it was unfair to charge for a trial at all. Bad business choice. Some people may enjoy this school and not mind paying and arm and a leg, and being forced into a contract, but it's not for me. Less