A Harrowing Experience at American Karate Academy I had been searching for the perfect martial arts school for my kids so they can become dedicated students and to hone their skills. After hearing about American Karate Academy on Bird Road, I decided to give it a try. Unfortunately, the experience I had there was far from ideal. Upon entering the school, I was met with a strong, unpleasant odor. It was clear that the facility had not been properly maintained, as the floors were dusty and the equipment appeared worn out. This lack of cleanliness made it difficult to feel comfortable and focus on my training. The instructor, Master Lazaro Garcia, seemed uninterested in my children's progress and offered very little guidance. His teaching style was outdated and his communication skills were poor. This made it challenging to understand the techniques he was demonstrating. Furthermore, he would often belittle students who did not grasp the concepts quickly enough, causing a toxic learning environment. The school also lacked a structured curriculum. Classes felt disorganized and without a clear progression plan, it was difficult to see any improvement in my children's skills. This lack of structure led to confusion and frustration among the students, as they were left to figure things out on our own. The atmosphere at American Karate Academy was highly competitive and hostile. Instead of promoting camaraderie and support among students, the school seemed to encourage rivalry and aggression. This resulted in a number of injuries, as students were pushed to spar without proper supervision or safety measures in place. To make matters worse, the fees were exorbitant, and there was constant pressure to purchase additional gear and sign up for expensive lessons. This made me question the integrity of the school and their true intentions. In conclusion, my experience at American Karate Academy was deeply disappointing. The lack of cleanliness, poor instruction, disorganized curriculum, and hostile environment made it impossible for me to continue my family there. I hope that by sharing my experience, others can make a more informed decision when choosing a martial arts school in Miami. read more

My son is Mr. Garcia student. He has been coming to this school for about three months and being a child of special needs Mr. Garcia has so much patience with my son. He looks forward to coming to his class every week. This organization is a very good school and very family oriented. Mr and Mrs Garcia are very professional and humble people. I enjoy watching how well my son is doing in Mr. Garcia class. He has more confidence and his behavior is getting better. I also had a chance to enjoy my nieces birthday party on June 30th 2018. Mrs. Garcia did an amazing job organizing the party. Everything was perfect from the invitations to the decorations to the goodie bags. The pizza was amazing and the cake was perfect! The kids had a blast with Mr. Garcia and his team! They learn so much and had a lot of fun playing the games!! I totally recommend this karate school for either kids or adults or if you want to have a party here. I am looking forward to watching my son grow in this school. read more

With other martial arts experience during my early life and again in college, I decided to take on a recommendation to join American Karate which I received before returning home from a University I visited for a few years during my early twenties. I did an ample search and decided on joining American Karate Academy. Since I started, I have been learning the proper ways of blocking, striking, footwork, as well as the appropriate stretching and warm-up exercises. The culture that is implemented on the AKA Mat is one of community amongst students. The Karate teacher, Mr Garcia, takes his trade with much diligence, respect, and example as to direction within the American Karate community. Classes are 45 minutes of a well thought out routine of exercises and lessons. It has been a great decision in my life to return to the dojo and train on the AKA Mat. At 46, I realize that this is right for me. I highly recommend AKA. read more

As someone who has first hand experience of actually learning and experiencing what it's like in this place, I wanted to tell you how great of a teacher Mr. Garcia is and how great of a place this is. When I was younger, my parents took me here to try and help me boost my confidence and help me in self-defense. During my first class, Mr. Garcia has shown to my parents, my brother, and I how great and experienced he is, from his teaching styles, ways to get to kids, and his sense of humor to get kids more engaged in wanting to learn more and more from him has shown he truly wants to help. However, after 2 years or so, I had to quit in fear of the virus. Now I'm checking back again and from how everyone's review is saying, I can and will forever believe that Mr. Garcia hasn't changed and will continue to make an impact on his students. read more

My son began this incredible academy about 5 months ago after hearing rave reviews from close friends and family for months and months. I have to say that it has been one of the most rewarding investments I have made for my child. I have seen so much growth and confidence built in such a short amount of time. Mr. Garcia is dedicated to his students not only in their craft but in their attitude, respect, Confidence and most importantly in how they treat each other. He has not built a school but a family. Who encourage one another and commit to putting forth the best of themselves with dedication and moral. read more

Mr. Garcia's team at American Karate Academy is top notch. I tried two other schools in the area and by far AKA was the better option, from the moment you walk in you can tell the difference in the cleanliness of the place. We did a trial class back in September and right from the start I could see the difference between the two other locations we tried. They preach discipline and self confidence through the teaching of martial arts. We have noticed a drastic improvement in our sons behavior and confidence since he started attending class. I highly recommend the team at AKA! read more

My son started here almost a month ago, he loves it! We are so happy with the academy. The staff is excellent, it's family owned and they make you feel like family as well. It's very clean. Mr.Garcia the teacher not only is very professional but you can tell he truly cares about the progress of each child, in karate but also in their academic school as well... My son is extremely happy to go to karate 3 times a week, he looks forward to it and constantly reminds me of when he has karate. never a dull movement. I couldn't be happier with the academy. read more

This is hands down the best karate academy ever! So if your looking for a place stop now and come here, you will not regret it. I'm so glad we came across this school and put our little one here, this is more than just school, this has become our extended family. Mr. Garcia is personally one of the best human beings I know, he has so much patience and the kids love him. He transmits his love and passion to the kids and they love and respect him. Thank you Mr. and Mrs. Garcia for all that you do! read more

Definitely recommend this academy to anyone who wants to get into the martial arts or any workout program for e.g. (kickboxing, boxing, etc.) When I first entered the class, I didn't do my best, and I practically gave up. The next day, the instructor taught me in a slower pace, and motivated me to do better. This is my 5th class and I've never felt this great, it is a fun experience especially that the staff is amazing. I thank them for motivating me to do better. read more

I couldn't be happier with American Karate Academy. After attending a couple of other martial arts schools, I can say hands down, this is the cleanest one I've been to. There is a balance of fun and discipline during class to keep students focused and motivated. The students become great friends and it feels like a family. If you have been thinking about starting Martial Arts and have been looking for the right place, this is it! read more

After my first kickboxing class I was hooked!! Being on a college budget I was skeptical about trying other classes however, 5 months later I am now doing kickboxing, karate, and woman's self defense classes. AKA offers exceptional classes for very reasonable prices! Sensei Garcia is a great instructor, role model, motivator, and friend. Very friendly environment all my team mates welcomed me with open arms read more

I started taking karate for the first time and loved it, Sensei Garcia is an excellent instructor with lots of martial arts knowledge. He is very detailed but yet makes the classes fun. The karate school is very clean and safe. I highly recommend Sensei Garcia and American Karate Academy to anyone. read more

I have been part of the American karate academy family for all most 3 years, I am so happy that I made the choice to have my son join this academy. My son has learn so much from being part of this academy. I would recommend any parent to have their child join American Karate Academy. read more

I highly recommend American Karate Academy. I enrolled my grandchild Davian and he really enjoys and looks forward to every class. Mr. Garcia is an excellent Sensei who knows how to motivate the children. I am very happy that we found Amercian Karate Academy. Sensie Garcia! read more

ABSOLUTELY love this academy, more than an academy, we have created a Family, our kids have been here for more than 5 years and they love it as well Mr Garcia and the rest of the crew care not only for our kids but also for the community as well Do not miss the opportunity read more

I took my son Oliver to the Little Dragons introductory class and he has been hooked ever since. I see the difference it has made in his self esteem. He is clearly more confident and displays more respect towards others. Thank you AKA, you guys Rock!! read more

First time took the kids to a Martial Arts class. They loved the experience. The instructor took his time and explaining everything. I would highly recommend to anyone. Prices are very reasonable. Kids want to go 7 days as week. read more

I have really appreciated the focus on skill, but even more so on character, good sportsmanship, kindness, respect, etc. The class is a very positive experience for my child. AKA has had such a maturing influence on my child. read more

Best Katate school in Miami. Mr. García and his team of coaches are awesome with the children. My boys love their karate school. It provides so many cognitive benefits to a developing child. Recommend it with no reservations. read more