This place. Oh, this place. It houses something special. If nothing else is helpful about this review, know that I LOVE accompanying my kids to class every time - not one of those activities that have a parent feeling like "oh, man- we gotta go to _____ againnnn". I plan on joining up once I get the thumbs-up from my doc (my body is a bit broken at the moment). My two kids (ages 11 and 6) have been attending classes for two and a half months now, attending an average of 3-4 times per week. The adjectives I would use to describe this dojo are profuse and positive... welcoming, sincere, encouraging, challenging, supportive, community-building, kind, conscientious, warm, and empowering. Each sensei brings their heart and flavor to the class. Here are some of my favorite aspects of how the dojo is run: Students learn how to operate in community with others through teamwork and mutual teaching/learning. Families are encouraged to participate Students learn that there is something to learn from every person, and something we can teach every person Yes, it's super self defense- AND can be profound metaphor for almost anything positively-connoted that you can think of. I've witnessed these kids (and other students here) develop physically, emotionally, and mentally - and it's only been two and a half months. read more

We couldn't be more grateful for this place -- and for Mark Arnott, who has built something truly special here in Eagle Rock. My son is AuDHD and has historically struggled to push through hard things. In just four months, the transformation has been remarkable. He's learning to understand his body, building real resilience, and beginning to grasp what it means to both give and earn respect. That growth doesn't happen by accident. Mark runs his dojo with warmth, kindness, and genuinely high expectations. Simple things -- like his habit of telling students to say hello to someone they don't know -- go a long way toward building a real sense of community. And it shows: the parent couches are always full, and it's become one of our favorite places to connect with other families. My son is progressing beautifully in his skills, but honestly, what he's gaining beyond the mat matters just as much. We're so glad we found this place. read more

What an amazing and well-equipped dojo! I've wanted to study karate since I was young, and I'm finally getting around to it very late in life. I'm not a hardcore athlete by any stretch of the imagination, so I was looking for a new sport which would be fun and one where I could learn at my own pace, while also teaching me new skills and providing a good workout. Arnott Kenpo has totally delivered on these objectives. While I'm just at the beginning of my martial arts journey, I can see myself sticking with Kenpo for years to come. This is not an angry, tough-guy dojo. Mark and his fellow instructors make learning kenpo fun, exciting and understandable. If you're looking for an exercise in measuring relative testosterone levels, look elsewhere. However, if you want to try a wonderful dojo where you and/or your kids can learn a terrific martial art (Elvis did Kenpo!), gain confidence, and get a great workout, then I wholeheartedly encourage you to visit Arnott Kenpo. read more

Arnott Kenpo Karate - Karate Near Me - Los Angeles, California

What a lovely dojo! The owner is passionate, compassionate and an overall wonderful person. He made our son feel empowered and welcome. We felt so lucky to be able to take private lessons with him. Our son felt so confident and capable after his lessons, we appreciate the care this establishment provides for little people who are learning a a new challenge. The dojo is not new, but it is huge and airy with lots of natural light. read more

A great and supportive place to bring your kids to learn martial arts. Our 6 year old daughter has been going here for a few months, and loves going to class. All of the staff is kind, supportive, and helpful with just the right amount of discipline. The facility is clean and street parking easy to find. We highly recommend it for anyone who is interested. They let our daughter try out the classes multiple times before we signed up. There was no pressure whatsoever to sign up and they want to make sure the kids will enjoy themselves. read more

Wonderful place for Karate. My son is 10 and has been taking karate lessons at Arnott for 6 months. He loves it. I think it has helped increase his confidence and also hand eye coordination and just overall well being in mind and soul. Mr. Arnott is great. So good to the kids and really instilling a sense of self awareness, positivity and confidence. All while learning martial arts. The studio is large and spacious and lots of places for parents to observe or relax while kids take classes. Lots of options for day and time for kids lessons. I love that other young adults and students help lead the classes, it really shows what study and discipline will get you. I can't wait for my son to continue and move up in the belts. read more

Arnott Kenpo Karate has moved from Pasadena to Eagle Rock, but is the same amazing place. M. Arnott has created a wonderful space for children and adults alike to learn the art of Kenpo. The old studio was very nice, but I happen to prefer the new studio to the old - as there is just as much space for students, and even more for those waiting on students! It is open and spacious with tons of light. Plenty of class choices to fit all schedules... There is also $10 yoga on Saturday's and $5 Zumba! While there is no parking lot, there is more than ample street parking. (Paid and unpaid! ) It is also near all of the shops and restaurants along Colorado and Eagle Rock Blvd. Arnott Kenpo is growing quite nicely in its new Eagle Rock home. I would recommend it to those who want to feel at home while learning and honing their craft. read more

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Great school. I've been out of the Martial Arts scene for about 4 years. I was able to come here, get back in shape in about 3 months and earn 1st place in an open martial arts tournament! So even though this is my school, I currently attend, and staff may read this. I will be completely honest. Positives: -Great People -Great space -I love how organized it is. I can easily see how I'm going to achieve my next belt. -Prices are really affordable, esp for the amount of classes you can attend. -The school has a bunch of classes that are included in the price. Ex: Real life fighting class, Nunchaku class, Zumba, Yoga +$10, tournament fighting class, etc. (these all have special guest instructors, which is awesome to get different teaching styles) -It feels like everyone cares about you as the only student. Negatives: -Too nice -Most students lack confidence and disciplined -May be a bit too easy. As I've notice higher belts are afraid of being hit. You may not feel challenged by other students. -Lastly, I've noticed, the few strong students there may not be able to go hand to hand with other arts as they are not diverse in their approach. Over all, this school is pretty awesome. You feel like your apart of a distant family. The path is clear and flexible. At least do the trial! NOTE: I searched for a new martial arts school for about two years. I found this place when it was in its old location. I eventually came back simply because the path is so clear here and the art of Kenpo is beautiful. I just wish it had more strict discipline. I am personally considering studying Muay Thai at the same time as I study Kenpo to get both worlds. GO GO GO ARNOTT KENPO!!! read more

Arnott Kenpo Karate - ARNOT KENPO got me first place! - Karate Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I have been a student of Mr. Arnott's for nearly 1.5 years. I've waited to write this review because I feel that it's important to have as many facts as possible before putting my name to something like this. It is also most fair to the person/place being reviewed. Having finished with that preamble, on to the review... I selected Arnott Kenpo Karate after considerable research into both the art of Kenpo as well as the various schools available. There is a special quality to this school that begins with Mr. Arnott, who has a deep understanding of Kenpo. He is also a gifted teacher and listener who clearly loves what he does. This is a powerful combination in anything, and it significantly influences anyone who truly wants to learn and to grow. Mr. Arnott invests significant personal time and attention into each student. His strong belief in teaching the fundamentals, combined with an emphasis on focus, respect, and fun, creates an atmosphere where young students develop quickly in both the art and as individuals. Adults benefit from a supportive and positive community that makes progression in this challenging art both fun and achievable. I think that a good litmus test for any activity or place is how one feels about it after time has passed and "the bloom has fallen off the rose." I am finding that, the more I invest in Kenpo, the more fun and benefit I derive from it. More importantly though, I increasingly look forward to going to the studio to practice Kenpo and to be with my Kenpo family. Another good test of a school is the measurable progress of the student. The practice of Kenpo has improved my flexibility and endurance. Further, under Mr. Arnott's guidance, I'm becoming increasingly comfortable and confident in my sparring. Arnott Kenpo Karate is as good as it gets. Like all things in life, however, we get out of it what we put into it. If you are considering a martial art for your child or for yourself, and are willing to put in the time and energy, it will be time and energy very well spent. read more

I learned about Arnott Kenpo at a fundraiser. I was delighted that they would donate lessons to a good cause. I bid on the lessons for my 6 year old son and thankfully won. My son was excited about learning about Karate but very shy and the type of kid that doesn't like any type of physical aggression so I was a little concerned. Our first meeting was with the owner, Mark. He is just such a kind and encouraging man that seems like he was made for working with kids. He talked to my son directly and in a way that made my son feel at ease. My son was a bit overwhelmed at the classes at first so we decided to do private lessons as they are one on one and less hectic. All the instructors were so nice and patient with him. Anna and Marcus were very nice. His favorite instructor was Heather. Heather not only thought him things at his level but was a lot of fun. If your child is interested in Karate. This is a great place to do it. Lots of Parking and great lunch places on Colorado to go to afterwards. read more

After searching a number of karate studios, I decided on Arnott Kenpo Karate. I'm glad I did! Mr. Arnott has a great blend of discipline and knowledge, where he will push you do your best but also be supportive as you learn. I enjoy his way of teaching which provides guidance while learning some difficult techniques, yet will also give you a hard workout during your practice. The studio is clean and spacious, and has nice amenities such as filtered water and a large changing area for both men and women. His classes can be large at times, however, he and other teachers manage to get around to everyone and assist. I like how he shows you the details of each karate move, then will tie a story to it which helps to remember how to do it. I know I sound like a walking advertisement, but I admit, I feel at home at this studio! I have seen kids of all ages here and lots of adults which is a fine skill to be able to successfully teach all ages. Mr. Arnott seems to have a personality that gets along with everyone, keeping the studio atmosphere upbeat and positive which makes you want to continue. I'm working on my next belt and look forward to staying with Arnott Kenpo for as long as I'm able. Thanks Mr. Arnott! read more

Great place for kids my son has been going for about 2 months. Mark is fantastic with the kids and the other teachers are great too.

Arnott Kenpo Karate is a great place for kids to learn! They are taught the skills needed to progress in Kenpo, as well as life lessons to help them grow as people. They learn to set goals for themselves and take action to meet those goals. They learn about making a commitment and honoring that commitment. They learn respect for themselves and others. And they learn the value of working hard to achieve. This is the best program I could have chosen for my child. I highly recommend this program for anyone looking to learn Kenpo and the life lessons that go along with it. read more

Excellent Zumba dance instructor Shannon is inspiring! Great price too at $8 a pop. If only my knees weren't so decrepit.

Six months ago, I was on a search for a new sport/hobby. It seemed to me that karate would be a worthy endeavor . After searching several karate studios on the internet, I was drawn to Arnott Kenpo Karate. The look and style of the website just seemed right and I made a visit to the studio to find out more. The first person I met was Mr. Mark Arnott, a 5th degree Black belt and founder. I liked this guy immediately!. He is very kind and patient; not at all pushy. You get a sense right away that he truly loves what he does and his karate studio exudes a very pleasant spirit of kindness and respect for everyone who visits. The introductory courses offered make it very easy to get involved and to experience karate for a month to see if it is a good fit; it didn't take a month to decide. I became a member and have really enjoyed the challenge and experience of learning karate and advancing up the ranks. Every week we learn new things keeping it fresh and exciting. Mr. Arnott is constantly bring in visiting Black belt veterans who offer new insights into how to practice karate. There are members of all ages here from age 4 to age 60+ and I find everyone to be good and respectful people. I plan to be a member of Arnott Kenpo Karate for many years as I enjoy and learn in this unique and wonderful place. read more

Mark came to our school (Rockdale Visual and Performing Arts Magnet) with a few of his students and performed an informing demonstration to our Girl Scout troop! What an amazing event. Mark and his students were so professional and courteous. My daughter wants to take classes now! read more

American Kenpo Karate is the perfect blend of karate, kung fu, and aikido. I've taken martial arts at 5 studios in 4 different states. When I moved to LA, a legend in Kenpo Karate recommended that I check out Arnott Kenpo Karate. I'm glad I did. Every time I walk into this studio, the warmth of the people makes me feel like coming home. All martial art studios are not created equal. The most important thing to consider is the head instructor. Mr. Arnott is one of the friendliest head instructors you will ever meet. He sets a great example of respect, humility, and focus for all instructors to follow, and that inspires the students. Mr. Arnott sincerely cares about the development of each student. The 2nd most important thing is how the students treat each other. At this studio, the students learn, have fun, and motivate each other. They learn about respect and character. That's why Arnott Kenpo Karate won the Best of Pasadena award 3 years in a row. Both of my kids have risen to the challenge of their belt tests and conquered their own fears at this studio. I highly recommend this studio for kids and adults of all ages and experience levels. read more

Our son has been taking lessons here for years. He loves it, and I am super proud of him.

My 4 year old son has been taking karate at Arnott Kenpo for about 8 months now, in the Mighty Tigers class. I have nothing but wonderful things to say about the studio and the entire team. I am so fortunate that when we were searching for a studio we came across Arnott Kenpo, as the teachers are patient and kind with their instruction, and instill a sense of responsibility in pride in even the youngest of students. I highly recommend that anyone looking for a karate studio come to Arnott Kenpo, especially those with small children! read more

When I first joined Arnott Kenpo Karate I was nervous and wondered how I would fit in. 6 months later ( wow! has it been six months already?) and with a belt promotion since I joined, and testing again next week, I find myself wanting to be here every chance I get. Everyone is so friendly and helpful. I find myself now helping others and it is just such a great feeling. Master Arnott is such a warm and positive individual, and all around great guy and leader. I have learned and developed much discipline from Master Arnott. I am already a very disciplined individual , but I discovered that here at Arnott Kenpo Karate learning a new way to better yourself can come in a most useful , demanding and addictive form. Because of Master Arnott and his wisdom, along with each and every student here Arnott Kenpo Karate is the best place to be! I now demand to be a better me!! read more

While I haven't attended karate classes there, I can attest to the professionalism, humor and kindness of owner Mark Arnott, and the offerings at his dojo. I had the pleasure of meeting Mark when I attended a free women's self defense workshop in September and liked it so much that I attended again today with my daughter and invited a friend and her girl as well. The class was led by a woman black belt who will be offering a 7 week series in January of next year. I also had the pleasure of attending a Saturday morning barefoot Zumba class at their studio. With no pressure to register, I took a course brochure and was amazed at the numerous offerings at workable rates. Whether you're an Eagle Rock local or live in a neighborhood adjacent to Eagle Rock, if you're looking for karate, self defense or even Zumba, be sure to stop by Arnott Kenpo Karate and see their wonderful dojo for yourself. read more

My 1st grader has been taking classes here for a few months and he really loves it. The new studio space in Eagle Rock is very nice. The owner is very thoughtful and empathetic. Students are held to high standards, but they are also supported in building the skills to live up to to those high expectations in an age appropriate way. I would definitely recommend Arnott Kenpo Karate to anyone looking for fun and supportive martial arts instruction for their child. read more

We thought karate would be a good activity for our daughter and Arnott Kenpo Karate has proved us correct, and then some. Mark Arnott and all of the instructors know how to be both nurturing and motivating (it can be a delicate balance). They've created a warm environment where students comfortably learn and feel proud of achievements earned. I like that all skill levels are on the mat as a group. Students teach and inspire each other (the best kind of peer pressure). Arnott Kenpo Karate has become a wonderful part of my daughter's life with benefits that will last a lifetime. read more

This is a fantastic dojo, and it's no surprise it was voted Pasadena's "Best Martial Arts Studio" 3 years in a row. Mark Arnott and his team offer excellent instruction, with a big focus on themes like respect, focus and courage that are important both on and off the mat. Our daughter has been coming here for over 2 years, which is much longer than she's stayed with any other sport (soccer, basketball, tennis, volleyball etc. etc. etc.). She's stuck with it, I think, because the studio provides such a supportive atmosphere it feels like home. We miss the old Pasadena location (which closed in late 2014 to make way for a children's hospital) but we're becoming fond of the new (and permanent) Eagle Rock location as well. The studio has created a community we're proud to be part of. read more

This is a fantastic studio! The owner Mark really cares about the students and has set up an environment in which they absolutely thrive. My son has really found his passion at the dojo. I recommend the private lessons in addition to regular classes - that was a game changer for us. The improvement we've seen in our son's confidence, discipline and endurance since attending Arnott Kenpo Karate is undeniable. We love it. read more

We are new to the dojo and so happy to be part of the community. The classes have multiple instructors who break the kids into groups, which allows appropriate instruction for many levels. The special classes offered really are such a benefit and give both kids and adults the opportunity to work on specific skills. The space is beautiful, the people gracious, welcoming and the instruction excellent. I am thrilled to have found such a gem for my daughter to attend. read more

i've spent 50 years training in ed parker's american kenpo. rarely have i seen an owner-instructor who puts his entire self into his art, and business. mark arnott is a great instructor, and a great human being. his staff are very well trained, and exceptional when instructing both youngsters, and adults. with so many inflated egos in the martial arts community it is a pleasure to see a man who loves the art, and presents it in a way that maintains respect for kenpo's history, and relates it to todays martial artist. read more