Why choose Taekwondo and not another activity? Realistically, I like indoor sports because I can support my child year-round without having to endure extreme heat, cold, or rain. I also like the flexibility of the schedule. There are 6 classes available and we should attend 2 per week, but I can pick the days that work best for my family given my daily workload and what's going on with my other kids each week. It's not a "now or never" time slot each week. Plus, I would argue that there's a lot more dedication to positive character development in taekwondo than other sports. Why choose Elite Martial arts? My 10-year-old daughter has attended Elite for 5 years and I continue to be pleased with the instruction, formation, and community that the Elite staff provides. The school continues to grow in numbers, but also maintains a strong foundation of kind, motivated, and welcoming families that have been here for years and create the family atmosphere. If you're looking for a community of people that dedicate their hearts and souls to taekwondo, you will find it here. If you're looking for something to do just for fun but are not interested in a serious commitment, you will be equally welcomed, respected, and appreciated in this school. In my opinion, the main goal of all the instructors, staff members, and devout parents filling the seats every night are to build up and support every student, every day. During every single class, my daughter is praised at least once, usually more, by instructors and assistants that make it a priority to get to know and build relationships with every single student. I love that my daughter has a positive place to go where she can work with friends for the personal betterment of all without fostering any negativity or bitter competition with anyone. I also appreciate the growing diversity of the student that I have observed over the years. I truly believe that training here is better preparing her to work positively with a variety of people of differing skills in a global society. While the exercise and self-defense skills my daughter has obtained are a plus, I value the program most for the character development maintained throughout all levels of the program. Instructors regularly address normal child feelings and how to deal with them effectively, values and how to live like a black belt by showing discipline, integrity, honesty, and resilience while also acknowledging human nature that make it hard to abide by them all the time. All of this is communicated from a place of striving for betterment and not one of judgement or recrimination. I also love knowing that my daughter is developing friendships with children that have this same mentality and goals with regards to their own values. While the school works to prepare students for success, it also creates a safe and supportive environment for people to experience failure. My daughter failed 3 consecutive belt testings while she struggled to implement the right movements and angle to break the board, despite her instructors' best efforts. While no one plans for or desires failure, I was pleased with how well she learned to handle this struggle, the constructive support both her peers and instructors showed her, and how much she has matured since she experienced this. While it pains me slightly to know that I drive by 4 martial arts academies on the 20 minute drive from my house to get to the school, and as students rise to more advanced levels, the cost increases, but for me it is worth the investment knowing that my daughter is being trained in such a positive, loving, community-oriented atmosphere that reinforces the values I want her to have as a leader and global citizen. Bonus: Chipotle just opened right across the street. My only caveat would be that Mr. Ritch naturally speaks very quickly, so English Language Learners or children that struggle to keep up with a fast pace may struggle in his classes and may do better in Mr. Besada's classes in the Overland Park Elite school. read more

Our oldest Son started with Elite back in October of last year. He has SPD and we were looking for something that would help build his self esteem and confidence. The instructors have done that. They are so amazing with all the kids. And have never made our son feel like he was different from any of the other children. They have helped our son believe in himself, and he know tells us that he can do anything he wants as long as he works hard and never gives up. He has improved at home with his school work and he now come up to me and ask's if i need help with anything. The staff at Elite are equally as Wonderful. They treat you like Family and always make you feel welcomed. They always have a smile on there face when you walk in and leave for the day. The owners of Elite are two of the most wonderful and caring people we know. They always make your whole family feel like you are apart of there family. And are beyond amazing with the kids. Our Son loves going to class and looks forward to learning new moves, and if you were to ask him what's his favorite thing to do in class. He would say being able to brake the boards :). We now have enrolled our other Son in class. And will be enrolling our daughter come this October/November! read more

We initially started our 11 year old son at Elite to help with focus, confidence, and also to learn self-defense. Elite has been a wonderful experience for him, and we have seen drastic improvements in all three areas, as well as an improved attitude towards school, getting his homework done, keeping his room clean and helping with household chores. When he visits a friend's house, I get texts about how polite and respectful he is! Three months in, and our whole family has joined! This is a wonderful, positively motivating environment for everyone, whether you're a kid or an adult. Every single instructor and staff member is great at what they do, and are very helpful and encouraging, it's awesome to be a part of the Elite family! The classes are very instructive and well organized, but still a lot of fun for both the kids and adults. They are always willing to answer questions, or help on technique. When you are new to a class, there are always plenty of staff available to help you through the first few classes, giving you plenty of personalized help. Elite has been a very positive addition to our life, and as soon as you walk in the door you can feel that this is a place where people love what they do. read more

Elite has been such an unexpected blessing to our family. We were introduced to Elite at a mother/son event at our school and I was impressed with how great they were with the boys. We decided to try the 6 week trial, not having any previous experience with martial arts. Both my boys, ages 6 and 10 have grown so much in completely different ways during the year we've been at the school and I have so appreciated their individual approach to both of my children. The instructors are so inspiring for the kids - ranging from the Junior Leaders who assist in running the classes (which my oldest has expressed interest in doing when he's older) to high degree black belts and World Champions. Mr. and Mrs. Bedford have cultivated such a familial atmosphere in the school where we, as a family, feel cared for. My kids are consistently challenged to grow, set goals and become the most confidant, respectful, hard-working versions of themselves and I could not be more thrilled with who they're becoming. I cannot recommend Elite Martial Arts enough - we're having a wonderful experience. read more

I would recommend Elite to anyone looking to learn Taekwondo and to grow as a person and leader. Elite has become an important part of our family. It has helped my boys to take ownership of their actions and to grow in respect for others and for themselves. Moreover, it is a healthy and rewarding hobby. The instructors are very knowledgeable, approachable, and highly respected. The instructors work to instill good values of respect and leadership into the kids. As a parent, what I observe in the community in regards to these values often saddens me. Elite represents, in many ways, the decency and citizenship that we need in today's youth. Additionally, the office staff is very welcoming and always greets you with a smile. For a time, my wife and I also took classes. Going to class was not only challenging for us, but also gave us a sense of community outside the home and workplace. I would encourage anyone to open their family to Elite. I cannot thank them enough for what it has done for my boys. Our family will forever be affected by them. read more

My 7yo son has been attending Elite Martial Arts in Olathe for just over a year. He began in the Tiger Class, has since earned his Orange Decided belt, and just recently joined Black Belt Club. We have had nothing but positive experiences since day one. The instructors and staff are absolutely outstanding. The owner, Mr. Bedford, is a phenomenal instructor and mentor to the students. He teaches in a way that makes every kid feel confident, and capable of succeeding. The forms required to learn for belt testing are challenging yet attainable. With each testing cycle, the instructors focus on teaching a valuable life lesson, such as honesty, responsibility, etc. My son recently experienced bullying at school and employed some of the lessons he'd learned to resolve the situation. I've seen a huge improvement in his attitude, respect, maturity, and responsibility in this past year. Attending Elite Martial Arts has been one of the best choices we have made for our son. read more

I had no real expectations when called to enroll my son in a trial session at Elite Martial Arts. I was blown away from the very beginning, the Bedfords are fantastic. Mr. Bedford has a fantastic way with people. Calling students by name from their first class, he challenges you to be your best in a positive manner. They take a holistic approach, not just teaching martial arts, but a set of universal values that include respect, loyalty, honesty, self-control, integrity, and goals. My son was hooked after one class and I was sold on the school. My son has learned a lot, not just in martial arts, but in important life skills. I was amazed to find out that many senior students and assistants were 3 to 4 years younger than my wife and I had guessed because of how they act and carry themselves. I recommend Elite Martial Arts without reservation as I cannot speak more highly of the school or the Bedfords. Stop in and check them out, you will not regret it. read more

Nearly 2 years ago, our oldest son was gifted a free trial at Elite Martial Arts.  At the time, he was struggling a great deal with his focus, discipline, self-control, and self-confidence.  Elite has helped him to make tremendous gains in all of those areas!  In addition, he has found a sport that he is passionate about, and he has made a number of wonderful friends with whom he loves training.  Taekwondo is now a family affair for us.  My husband, our younger son, and I are also training at Elite.  We really enjoy the opportunity to participate in family classes together, and our sons love being able to practice with their mom and dad at home.  We also value the life lessons that are taught at Elite.  Instruction focuses on self-defense and bullying prevention, of course, but it also reinforces personal traits, such as honesty, integrity, self-esteem, and discipline, that are equally--if not more--important.  To top it all off, it's a good workout!!! read more

Elite Martial arts has been one of the best decisions we have ever made for our son. The Bedfords have instilled in our son a higher sense of self-confidence, respect and leadership. He is receiving life-lessons that can be used throughout his life while also becoming able to take care of himself in the event he needs to take action. Mr. Bedford and his instructors blend humor and their own life experiences into the classroom. Every session is focused and challenging, yet very enjoyable. After 2 years of observing our son grow in this positive environment, my wife and I decided to also join the ranks of the Elite. The Bedfords have created a special family-friendly atmosphere where all are encouraged and welcomed. The camaraderie also extends beyond the classroom, where bonds of friendship are strengthened. If anyone is looking for an uplifting activity for kids or the entire family, we whole-heartedly recommend trying Elite Martial Arts! read more

Elite Martial arts has been one of the best decisions we have ever made for our son. The Bedfords have instilled in our son a higher sense of self-confidence, respect and leadership. He is receiving life-lessons that can be used throughout his life while also becoming able to take care of himself in the event he needs to take action. Mr. Bedford and his instructors blend humor and their own life experiences into the classroom. Every session is focused and challenging, yet very enjoyable. After 2 years of observing our son grow in this positive environment, my wife and I decided to also join the ranks of the Elite. The Bedfords have created a special family-friendly atmosphere where all are encouraged and welcomed. The camaraderie also extends beyond the classroom, where bonds of friendship are strengthened. If anyone is looking for an uplifting activity for kids or the entire family, we whole-heartedly recommend trying Elite Martial Arts! read more

my boys started training in Feb. for their trial and it quickly turned into signing up full time! that atmosphere Is absolutely amazing, I Watched my out of control beating me up and down always being angry 5 year old and my high functioning didn't know how to process his own behavior 6 year old go from just that to having the confidence and respect for others, now both of my boys do things without being asked more than once and are the amazing little boys I know they can be. as for the staff, they are AMAZING! Mrs Roth leads you through everything from the desk side step by step and can answer anything you may want to ask. Mr. Ritch is a fantastic instructor he gets the kids engaged and keeps them focused, he makes every technique relatable and explains them really well so young kids can understand. and if you need someone to make you laugh, leave that to Mr. Roth, hes a hoot! I am proud to call Elite my family's TKD home! read more

ATA Elite Martial Arts in Olathe, Kansas has become "the glue" that keeps our family working together. This is a FINE Martial Arts school. Mr. Bedford is an effective instructor, encourages challenges for healthy body and mind. He is experienced with different styles of Martial Arts. We appreciate Mr. Bedford promoting awareness in situations that extend to real life. We appreciate the atmosphere of the school, it is strong and welcoming. We enjoy the option of a year-round discipline where all participants perform and are always accountable. I am the mom in our family and I work full-time. I personally questioned my skill level = low! AND my time availability before joining the school. So, I joined three years ago and we are quite pleased enjoying a physical and mental activity for our entire family. If you are a busy parent just like all parents are... I promise it is possible, you should give it a chance!! read more

Elite has been an absolute gift to my daughter. She has always had a difficult time sticking with and enjoying ANY extracurricular activity, but she has easily been able to stay engaged at Elite. We in fact frequently have her asking to participate in the other various activities provided. We've been able to watch our daughter grow and gain confidence in her capabilities. The Bedford's and the entire staff at Elite are phenomenal! Mr. Bedford always manages to combine teaching a fundamental belief of Tae Kwan Do with an aspect of everyday life, making it so much easier for my daughter to remember and apply to her daily life. Her little sister is three and already enjoys trying to practice with her sister, I definetely have another future Tiger on my hands. Once you join Elite, you become part of a big family that not only cares about the student but the rest of your own family as well. read more

I can not recommend Elite Martial Arts enough! We encourage our children to participate in at least one activity outside of school and between 3 kids we've tried about every sport/music/dance activity there is. I can say Elite is my favorite. There is much more to it than just learning the physical acts of martial arts. The discipline, confidence, and self respect they teach the students is invaluable. My son loves Mr. Ritch, he makes it so fun for the kids while teaching them many important skills. We like that it is all inclusive and so we aren't getting nickel and dimed every testing. My son wanted to try martial arts because it's cool and what little boy doesn't want to do some ninja moves. We also thought it would help him with his balance and coordination, which it has. From Elite we got those things we were looking for and so much more. He's happy, we're happy read more

I can't imagine a better environment for kids and adults to learn martial arts. But there is so much more to Elite Martial Arts. The Bedfords are an amazing couple who are building a great Taekwondo school built on all of the highest principles of ATA Taekwondo. They have a well trained staff and all are caring and encouraging, when you are doing well, or when you need some pointers to improve your skills. Children learn respect for the instructors and each other in a structured environment where it is safe to make mistakes and learn from them. I am an older adult student, ex-teacher, who greatly admires the way Elite is helping the children to become confident, respectful, and caring individuals. And I appreciate the respect they have for the adult students and how encouraging they are when it doesn't come easily. read more

My son and I both train at Elite Martial Arts and we absolutely love it! Elite is very family-oriented and there are many families who train together, from little ones to grandparents! The quality and depth of the curriculum is incredible and the instructors are very knowledgeable and encouraging. The classes are designed to support and challenge all ability levels and build on the potential of each student. Through leadership classes, belt rank testings, and tournaments, my son and I have gained more self-awareness and confidence. We learn and practice important self-defense techniques in a safe environment. With all of that, plus strong character-building programs and a supportive atmosphere, Elite Martial Arts has been a wonderful place for us to strengthen our mental and physical capabilities and have lots of fun! read more

Before I enrolled my son here at Elite Martial Arts, I scoped out a few other taekwondo places in the area. Nothing compared to Elite Martial Arts. I took my son so he could try out the free class. He loved every minute of it. Mr. Bedford and all of his Instructors are excellent. They teach not only self defense, but also life long lessons on how to be confident, respectful, caring for others, and set a good example for others at all times. It's been over 9 months since my son has been enrolled here and his discipline has improved dramatically not only at home but also school. I would recommend anyone with kids that lack that confidence or discipline, or even want to learn self defense, to come and watch a class here, or even get on the mat and try a free class before enrolling. You won't regret it! read more

Our son has been attending Elite since October last year. My wife and i were looking for a martial arts place and came across Elite on line. And the minute we sat down for our first meeting with the owner we knew. This was going to be our martial arts home. The owners are two of the most caring people my wife and I have the pleasure of knowing. The staff and instructors go out there way to get to know you and your whole family. The minute you walk in to the building there is always a Elite member there with a smile on there face to see how your day has been. I am so happy to say our other son has joined his big brother in class. And at the end of this year our daughter will be joining her two big brothers at the school as well. We couldn't of asked for a better place to call our martial arts home. read more

My family and I have been attending classes at Elite Martial Arts for approximately two years now. Watching the growth of our children not only in martial arts, but also in kindness, respectfulness, confidence, and an overall sense of accomplishment, has been such an amazing experience. The atmosphere at Elite Martial Arts is one of a kind as well. We've made life long friends with many of the other families that attend, and we all cheer each other on both in and out of class. The instructors are well-trained, qualified, certified, and great with all age groups. Classes meet Monday - Saturday, so there are several options to choose from in order to accommodate varying schedules. We would highly recommend Elite Martial Arts, and will continue to attend there for as long as we're able to do so. read more