Our son has had the privilege of attending AKF for the last several years. Over that time he has loved the opportunity to learn, grow in confidence, and embrace the martial arts. Master Mullis is absolutely amazing and truly cares about each of his students. We can't speak highly enough about AKF. read more

I waited TWO years before writing this review. Our journey with AKF Blackbelt Academy began with something no parent ever wants to experience. My son transferred to Tavan Elementary School in the Scottsdale school district mid-year during the 4th grade. On his second day at school, he was attacked from behind with a full-on chokehold by very large student he did not know. He came home with broken skin from fingernail marks, bruising, and red handprints completely around his neck. And what did the school administration do about it? NOTHING! Their excuse? The attacker was "disadvantaged" and "has it rough at home." I was furious. I started searching for a martial arts school that could teach my son (a child who wasn't naturally athletic) self-defense skills. After a lot of research and a recommendation from a friend, we decided to try AKF Blackbelt Academy. The school is led by Grand Master Tim Mullis, who has over 40 years of experience teaching Kyuki-Do, a mixed martial art that blends techniques from Karate, Taekwondo, Judo, and Hapkido. This style is incredibly effective because it teaches students how to defend themselves both standing and on the ground. (BTW: ground fighting skills are important because 80% of street fights end up being fought on the ground.) Two years later, it's like someone waved a magic wand over my son. My once non-athletic child has become a strong, confident young man. He's physically fit, disciplined, respectful, focused in school, and bully-proof. His grades have improved, his posture and confidence have completely changed, and most importantly-- he loves going to karate class. If you live in the Arcadia, East Phoenix, or Old Town Scottsdale area and are looking for a place that not only teaches self-defense but also builds character, confidence, and resilience, this place gets my highest recommendation. read more

My son started going here about 1.5 years ago. He has found discipline, community, self-defense, a love for martial arts and sword, fitness and learning that he can do hard things. There is no shortage of a good workout when taking a class and the arts is rich in areas of learning. I started attending with him about 1 year ago, so I could get my fitness in at the same time. I have become much stronger and actually love studying self-defense. I can't recommend this school enough for the whole family. read more

Enrolled my daughter at AKF about 6 months ago at a friends suggestion and she LOVES it! We've tried so many things and interest eventually fades, but not with AKF! Master Mullis is great with the students and is teaching them some really great life skills as well. My daughter is so proud of her accomplishments and I'm thankful she's learning how to defend herself. Highly recommend. read more

We started taking our son here several months ago but we're only able to start consistently taking him about a month and a half ago. He had been struggling with some behavior issues at school and I swear when we started consistently bringing him here it became a night and day difference! His teachers even sent emails saying they've noticed a huge difference in behavior, self control, self discipline, etc. Master Mullis is amazing with the kids, and my son loves coming here. His motivation levels have gone way up. If he could go five days a week, he would. I'm so glad I found this place! read more

I enrolled my daughter in April 2021. Found it by walking around while the hubbs was getting a haircut and from the moment I walked I knew that he would be a great teacher. He has so much patience with the kids and really works with every single one of them! My daughter loves it! and I will most definitely keep her here to grow and learn ! read more

My kids just completed their first year at AKF and we have been very satisfied. If you just drive by it, all you will see is a big sign that says "karate". AKF actually stands for America Kyuki-do Federation. And, if you are like me, you don't know what Kyuki-do is, but it is not karate - it is a mixture of the best parts of multiple martial arts (which include Tae Kwon Do and Judo) and highly respected. Basically, you get the self-discipline and forms that you expect from karate, but with the movement and power of Taekwondo and the self-defense mechanisms of Judo. As someone with a daughter, this aspect is very important to me. Classes will often focus on real-life situations (bullying, stranger danger, etc.) and the best way to handle each one. AKF offers just Judo classes as well, which is fun for older kids and adults. Many classes at AKF are a mixture of kids and adults so you can take the class with your kid(s) instead of waiting on the sideline while playing on your phone (although don't get me wrong, I also enjoy an hour to myself). There are kid-only classes geared towards the itty-bitty ones. The owner/teacher has an amazing (kinda blind-blowing) patience with the kids. Now that I think about it, I guess that the kind of patience you would expect from 6th-degree black belt (with 30+ years of teaching martial arts to kids), but if you have ever been around more than a three five-year olds at a time, you can appreciate that level of persistent patience. It is INSANE. So anyway, AKF is much more than just the "karate" that they put on their sign - it is a great studio that teaches multiple martial arts, for kids (and adults) of all ages. read more

I have been bringing my boys to Akf Blackbelt Academy for about two years now. My son has ADHD and it has helped him learn patience and responsibility. He has also learned how to focus and organize his thoughts through the activity that he does and forms he has to learn for his next belt. They have excellent classes and great owners. I highly recommend the school and would never take my kids anywhere else to lean martial arts. read more

My daughter has been going here about four months and she loves it! The studio is close to our home and the instructors are very good.