It doesn't get any better than this. I have been teaching Shotokan Karate since 1984 and it is my…read moreinformed opinion that this is one of the best places around for doing traditional Japanese Karate; not just because they do and teach it well but because the group is full of people with a friendly, positive attitude.

From the owner: We are a fully accredited martial arts school founded in 1971 under the leadership of our chief…read moreinstructor, Chuck Coburn. Sensei Coburn is a 7th-degree black belt with over 54 years of experience. We offer instruction for adults and youth in Traditional Japanese Shôtôkan Karate. Whether you are interested in competition, self-defense, physical fitness, relieving stress, or obtaining mental well-being and awareness, our school offers you the best training.

Hats off to the entire team here, our son is 4 and my husband and I feel he will benefit immensely…read morefrom the program. The Robinson's

I would give this place 0 stars if I could. They tell you…read moreit's no cancellations or refunds when you start payments but if you try to cancel before you even pay the registration fee they still will not let you cancel. I told these people I have a family emergency and cannot afford the classes and all I was told "I'm sorry I can't help you" and then I was hung up. I even asked to put a different card on file and they said if that card bounces back that they would still charge my original card. These people are heartless and this place is a scam. DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING THIS PLACE.

My only regret is I wish I had found Lee's earlier for my son. In one year he has grown so much and…read morehe is more confident and developing interpersonal skills he is doing great at school too. He is currently a green belt in the leadership program and won first place at a tournament this past weekend! I'm so proud of his growth. The teachers are incredible and give so much support and encouragement to their students! Don't make the mistake I did don't think about sign your kiddo up today!

High standards, kindness, community, constant striving for a better self, never giving up on…read moreanyone. This dojang has my highest recommendation. Lees ATA Chandler is more than just a place to take excellent taekwondo classes. It is a community of people who are dedicated to fitness, self discipline, integrity, each other, and personal growth through the leadership of the Garcias. Like many Of these places, there are large, vibrant kids classes. However, what is not is common is to see a large adult class, many high level black belts, and many who place high in regional, state, national, and world competitions. Excellence attracts excellence. The adult classes include those from all walks of life who support each other through the journey for better self, whatever that may mean. My family has been coming here for a few years now, and I have not seen the hard sell mentioned in other reviews. We spend what we choose to for equipment, dues, and competitions. The Garcia's are good to offer promotions and discounts, which are mentioned at end of class or in person when available. Like any sport, if you are serious, there is an investment as you progress, but it is your call as to what that entails.

Instructor is incredibly knowledgeable and a talented teacher. Such a pleasure to train with!read more

My daughter and I have taken eight Krav Maga classes with Gene. We…read more must really like it - for we both keep coming back!

My daughter has been going here for a while now, it's a really great place. The sensei's really…read morecare about helping the kids grow in more than just karate (but also karate). Gaining confidence, discipline, friendships, body awareness, mental and physical strength... it's been amazing to watch the journey. A major benefit of this dojo is that there are several different sensei's all with their own unique styles so in the end you're left with a wonderful balance. I've also taken the Women's self defense course here and highly recommend. It helped me learn some really great quick and easy techniques on how to fight back if the worst happens.

Casey is great! He's kind and patient, and I highly recommend Gilbert Defense Arts for your child…read morethat wants to learn Karate.

Master Ray Fisher is a force of nature. His depth of understanding of Kenpo, Qi Gong, and other…read morestyles and concepts of martial arts is only surpassed by the depth of his compassion for every one in his dojo/family. He is especially brilliant with kids, who snap to attention at his booming voice, but smile and giggle when he gets silly working with each one individually. He lays out exactly what he expects of his students and of parents (oh yes, you will have homework) and is always encouraging and positive - lavishing praise for the ones who work hard and try their best, and correcting and asking for better of those who fall short. Ms. Lyn is also amazing in her role as a second instructor, and my son especially loves training with her. She demands the best of her students, but ends up being the one who plays the most games with the kids. The students here are kind, funny, and very helpful to the lower ranks. I don't see a trace of ego in anyone who trains at this dojo, which is my number one concern at any martial arts school. It really does feel like a family, which is a rare thing to say for someone like me, who has become a bit jaded after experiencing a few too many "belt-a-month" schools. If you really want your child or yourself to learn the self mastery that can come from being a martial artist, then you should consider ACS first and foremost. Although many schools have wonderful programs, this one stands apart because of the humble, kind, and exacting leadership of Master Ray and his team.

I have been involved with ACS Karate on and off for over a decade. Originally forced by my parents…read moreto do karate as a pre-teen, I would be lying if I told you I really wanted to go those early years. Although I first resented my parents for forcing me to get involved in the sport, time has given me perspective and I can honestly say that it was one of the most defining activities of my youth. Now in my 20's, I am still involved in the martial arts and can see the benefits of my training in my everyday life. I spent several years enrolled in Chinese Kenpo classes, which is more or less traditional karate. Kenpo is a practical self-defense style, focused on real-world applications. As a small female, I appreciate learning techniques that can keep me safe in any situation. Kenpo not only gave me the skillset I need to keep myself safe, but it also gave me confidence in my ability to do so. This style of karate is excellent for teaching young children respect, dedication, self-control, friendship, and confidence... but the benefits aren't just for kids. No matter their age, everyone will benefit from training in Kenpo. Now as an adult, I still benefit from years of physical and mental conditioning in these classes. After a few years of training in Kenpo, I decided to join the kickboxing classes for a different kind of workout. Most recently, I got into Tai Chi and Qi Gong as my interest in "calmer" sports grew. While I no longer participate in Kenpo or kickboxing, I am still a student in the Tai Chi and Qi Gong disciplines. Although I never participated in these classes, ACS Karate also offers training in Jiu Jitsu, mixed martial arts (MMA), and weaponry. Master Ray Fisher and his staff are as dedicated as any true karate "masters" must be. Professor Fisher has been training in karate and other martial arts for 35+ years and has been the owner of this "dojo" for over 25 years. That in itself is a true testament to his technical skills and business savvy. He is a kind man and his passion for the martial arts is apparent in every way. Professor Fisher's dedication to his students makes this dojo stand out from all other karate schools in the Phoenix area. He is truly interested in each student and takes the time to identify their personal goals and develop strategies to achieve them. I have seen Master Fisher work with both young children and elderly individuals, treating everyone with the same level of respect and attention. ACS Karate offers classes six days a week so "not having time" isn't a good excuse to stay home. They have group classes, as well as private one-on-one training sessions. Professor Fisher is committed to helping you train, so he will sometimes schedule appointments outside business hours if your schedule requires it. Occasionally they offer various clinics in weapons, basic self-defense, and Eastern medicine/healing techniques. They also host and attend tournaments and conferences to give you the chance to interact with other martial artists from around Phoenix. Give ACS Karate a call. Ask for Master Fisher. You will not be disappointed!!!

My daughter has been coming here for three months and just had her birthday party here today. I…read morehighly recommend this program. Everyone here is committed to teaching and dedicated to karate. I am impressed by their passion and patience as my daughter is learning! The first couple of weeks were very difficult as my daughter was learning a lot of coordination she never done before, but they made sure she felt welcome and confident. Their birthday party program is amazing too. Thank you guys for investing in my daughter.!

Sensei Scrima and Barkley are great instructors, they are not commercial, music in the studio are…read morenot too loud like other karate place, the frequency of the music not 440hz. They engaged with students, clear instructions, fun, and very friendly. Not too many students in the class.