Used to be an unbelievable program, but after substantial staff turnover including both the teachers and the office --- its not really kid friendly anymore. If the staff changes back, would be great, but I can't see continuing given how they interact with kids. read more

This is for the BBT class for the kids. Mr Elias's focus and coaching of the techniques, including saying when it was not done correctly. Also the playfulness that made it fun for the kids. read more

The instructors are professional and great with kids. They are instilling a sense of pride and discipline.

My son has an amazing time at their BJJ classes. The instructors are thoughtful and caring, and the dynamic is positive and encouraging. It's a real gem. read more

Everyone is very helpful. Positive attitudes in the teachers. My daughter loves going there. She's been at it for 3 years, since she was 5 years old and still looks forward to it. read more

Absolutely horrible place, this is a mcDojo. They only have one great instructor and haven't seen him in a while now. No wonder they keep changing instructors here, this place is a joke. Save your time and money. Fake promotion by a fake brown belt. #MakeJiuJitsuGreatAgain read more

Excellent teachers. The last class we attended had a HUGE group but the teacher kept every kid 100% engaged. Really impressive. My son really enjoys this class. read more

Super fun class. Very supportive fellow students. Great individual attention from Chris the instructor to get me up to speed for future classes. Super encouraging and invigorating. So much better than new-fangled faddish class types with too much unnecessarily complicated equipment. This is back to basics boxing and physical training where proper form and breathing is key. read more

I've trained at some great jiu-jitsu schools, enough of them to know that a school is only as good as the instructors. Fancy locker rooms and posh crowds are meaningless if you don't feel connected to the instructors. The Jiu Jitsu instructors at Modern Martial Arts are as caring, patient and involved as you're ever going to find. Yes, you could find instructors closer to your apartment, but you're not going to find jiu jitsu instructors worthier of going few extra subway stops. I knew from my first class that this school was a incredible find. But I've trained at several schools before moving to NYC, and tried a few schools here also. All I could tell newcomers to Jiu Jitsu is that this school is the ideal place to get introduced to the sport. I wish I had started here! read more

Mr. Sevilla is AMAZING - he holds kids accountable to do their best, while teaching values, being supportive and is truly caring. My daughter is a better person because of him. All the other instructors are awesome as well, with a special shout out to Mr. Chris. In the front Alice and Sandy make sure operations are a tight oiled machine in a super friendly and safe environment! In my opinion, this is hands down the best martial arts school for kids! read more

My daughter is 10 years old and has been attending Modern Martial Arts East Side for 2 years. She started as a novice and has worked her way up into the Intermediate class. She has participated in the weekly classes, the Parents' Night Out events, and the Summer Camp classes. Modern Martial Arts focuses on building the individual student while creating a sense of fun. When our daughter was younger, they focused on fun, discipline and confidence in a safe, well supervised environment. Now that she is more advanced, the staff is still fun, but she is being challenged to see what she is really capable of--to find her strength, her voice and her sense of accomplishment. All of the instructors take time to know each student individually. I can't say enough about their program. Yes, checks the box of safe, fun, and well run/clean facility, but the most important aspect is the program that helps build character for the students. read more

The return policy was unsatisfactory. They kept half of the annual membership after my 4 year old cried and refused to go class after only two classes. He seemed afraid of going and was unable to articulate the reason. I tried to entice him to go but every time I bring up the class he cries and says no. I felt like I was punishing him so I called them for help and they weren't very understanding. They could've been more accommodating to the situation of someone with a young child who no longer wants to attend the classes. I didn't want be the tiger mom to force my son at such a young age so I wouldn't lose the money. They should have a trial period before they charge for the entire year and especially more understanding and accommodating to kids. read more

I needed a new, different work out before I went crazy from too much time in the gym. This place is just the ticket. They have separate classes for kids and adults, and since I don't have any kids, I'll leave that part for someone else to review. Their classes finish up right before the adult classes start, and I have to say that the cute little rugrats look like they're having fun. The instructors are all really, really nice and very encouraging for the most part, although one or two of them occasionally lapses into drill sergeant mode. I like to be pushed but, given that this isn't boot camp, I find that part more annoying than inspiring. Others in the class seem to like it though. However, that's pretty much my only criticism. My schedule flips around pretty much every week and sometimes every day. Luckily, they have daytime, evening and even weekend classes. You don't have to sign up ahead of time, which is critical. I often don't know which class I'm going to have a chance to go to until about an hour beforehand. In addition to regular martial arts class, there is also a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class during the week as well As for the work out itself, you will sweat. A lot. My arms are way more toned and I've definitely slimmed down. I can even do a few push ups now. And while I was initially a little put off by the idea of wearing a martial arts uniform and a belt, but now I like it (well not so much the uniform as the belt) because it gives me a goal to work towards. Lastly, they are careful here to keep the workouts varied, which prevents boredom - always a huge impediment to sticking to any workout plan. They charge a flat monthly rate, and you can go as much or as little as you like, so I guess how expensive it is sort of depends on how much you train. read more

Simply the best. I could not be happier with Modern Martial Arts. My son has been attending summer camp at MMA for two years and now finally his scheduled opened up to become a regular student there. Whether you are a long time student or new you will always feel part of the MMA community. The instructors do an excellent job of teaching their students the skill sets they need with discipline and love. My son always looks forward to MMA he especially loves how interactive the teachers are and has made friends there. From the first day he walked into the door he felt welcome. The faculty is clean, organized, welcoming and the customer service is out of this world. Thank you Sandy Tam for always being on top of everything and so helpful. I can not say enough positive things about this place. read more

I'm a mom of four and two of my boys have been a part of Modern Martial Arts NYC East for years. I could not be happier! The school is classes organized and well run. The kids learn so much more than just karate. In the classes they teach the kids about discipline, self control and respect to name a few. This is one of the best programs my kids have been EVER. read more

Great program for kids. Staff is great and very encouraging. It's been nice seeing my son's confidence level grow as he continues on with his classes. Great staff and price is very reasonable. Looking forward to sending my 4 year old shortly as well. read more

My kids have taken dozens of classes in the city since they were 6-months old. Honestly, this is probably the best place I've ever sent my kids for classes. I have been blown away by these instructors. My son has recently had some separation anxiety and he's had trouble in classes. The instructors here, specifically Mr. Gilberto, have been so understanding. They have been firm but kind and he's responded well. All of the instructors here are wonderful. They are professionals through and through. During the class, they approach and greet parents, they have the kids thank parents for bringing them at the end of every class and they maintain high expectations while being silly and allowing kids to have fun. My kids shine in this class. The amount of discipline is perfect. I plan to have my kids attend these classes forever! read more

This is not only a place for kids to learn self defense but be part of a family. We have been going here for over 14 years and the dedication and relationships my nephew and son have built you can't put a price on. read more

This is a really great dojo for your kids to learn karate. It's a very welcoming and encouraging environment where kids are taught respect, perseverance and are made to feel like they are part of a family. The zoom sessions during the pandemic are still helpful and provide a way for my son to continue his practice! I think this school provides an immeasurable benefit to kids and I would recommend it to anyone read more

People have been telling me to enroll my teen here and I wish I had listened sooner - he's loving it. The team is dedicated, plenty of teaching staff around during training, everyone kind and respectful. The practices are demanding enough yet fun. They offer a package of two trial classes, which is good to use - because it's a 6 month contract once you sign up. read more

I've been training there for over 2 years and I strongly recommend it. The place is clean, stuff is friendly and the instructors are professional. If you'd like to learn self defense & martial arts and/or trying to get back in shape while enjoying, it's the right spot. read more

I began training at Modern Martial Arts about four years ago. At my first class, the students were extremely welcoming, introducing themselves and telling me about the program. At 25 years old, I thought I was in shape, but Modern Martial Arts takes the meaning of "in shape" to another level. The instructors were very patient and encouraging as I learned but always pushed me to my limits. Mr. Sevilla, the head instructor, makes class enjoyable with his unique sense of humor. In the coming years, I trained hard, increased my fitness level, and refined my martial arts skills. I attend class frequently, as the school has classes seven days a week at various times each day. The instructors really care about their students. Recently they took time out of their own schedules to train a group of kids and adults for a citywide tournament and accompany us there. With the help of their expertise and hours of hard training, I placed in sparring. I am now a candidate for black belt and plan to participate in more competitions. Over my four years at Modern Martial Arts, new faces have become friends, instructors have become trustworthy coaches and mentors, a workout has become a skilled art form, and I have achieved more than I ever thought I was capable of. read more

While I've always been an active person, I've also always HATED the gym. I find it SO BORING I thus frequently lapse into long periods of couch-potatodom. On my 25th birthday, looking for ways to be more like my childhood hero Lara Croft, I found myself at the Yorkville Modern Martial Arts studio. It was about a year ago, and since that day, I've never looked back! This studio is a true gem.The instructors are absolutely incredible--people I'd like to have for friends (if only they weren't too cool for me).They are all extremely patient and encouraging with beginners, but always know when to push you. They definitely push you! I've never sweat so much in my life. Thankfully, they are all so funny that I find myself laughing through the pain of the killer workouts they put me through. Since beginning my training, my quality of life has gone way up. I have lost weight, toned up, and become surprisingly flexible. I can run faster for longer, and I feel empowered by my ability to defend myself physically. My balance has improved, and my reflexes are out of control! I literally drop things and catch them in midair! It's not only an intense, varied, and rewarding workout, it's also a wonderful way to get in touch with your inner strength -- the principles of martial arts extend beyond fitness. As a newbie, I was intimidated on my first visit. But the studio is a community of supportive, enthusiastic people who make classes a true pleasure. The flexible schedule allows me always fit in a workout, whether in the evening or the afternoon. I can't express how much finding this studio has improved my life. It is filled with passionate, skilled, supportive people who inspire me every class. I would absolutely recommend this studio to anyone with an interest, regardless of age, fitness level, or prior experience. Kiiiiyaaahhh!!!! read more

Awesome experience today! Staff was very kind and welcoming. I had my first session (beginner level) and although I'm extremely out of shape and believe I did terribly (despite how great the instructors said I did) I felt so encouraged and motivated to continue on. Even the students were super friendly. I noticed that although there were a few beginners, everyone seemed to know eachother pretty well. This made me skeptical at first but I can't say it enough- I felt so welcomed and the instructors were extremely patient. Loved the experience... Will definitely go back! read more

I've been coming to Modern Martial Arts since 2005 (back when it was still Manhattan Tae Kwon Do). The teaching is excellent, the classes are challenging and the atmosphere is welcoming. read more

This is a great place to learn martial arts and get into great shape for just about anyone. I had 5 years of martial arts experience prior to starting @ Premier. My background was mostly from a Japanese mixed martial arts system that combined traditional shotokan karate, judo, and japanese jujitsu. I also did about a year at a Tae Kwon Do / Hapkido school. But that was 15+ years ago! My goal at Premier was to get back into shape. I was looking for a school with athletic adults who like to train hard. Premier's curriculum appeared attractive online -- blending boxing, self defense, thai kickboxing, and focused BJJ sessions. This is the right combination that a modern martial artist needs to be competitive. But when I visited, I wasn't sure at first if it was for me at first. It seemed like the school's student base was much too diverse to create the right environment of intensity for me. Then I took a practice class, which changed my mind. I realized Premier's secret to success: (A) they have first class teachers who can teach *anyone*, from pros to 3 year olds; (B) they push every student as hard as that individual student can be pushed, and enable each to refine technique and fitness according to potential. I've been there for almost 2 years now and it's really changed my life for the better. I've got a long way to go before I'm satisfied with myself, but I'm in much better shape now, I feel better, I look younger, my technique has improved a lot, and I'm just happier overall. I notice other students feel the same way. The financial cost of the training is reasonable. The mix of aerobic exercise, full contact sparring (with head and leg strikes allowed, with protection), and technique-sharpening drills is great. As with any contact sport, people occasionally get injured but no more than I observed in adult soccer leagues... probably less here, actually. From my perspective, other forms of exercise just aren't as fun or as valuable.... Check this place out if you're interested in getting into better shape or if you're remotely interested in marital arts. read more

My son 10 year old attends jujitsu class with Mr. Santana. Best program and instructor in the city. Very structured, great discipline and Mr. Santana is great with the kids. A good workout and lots of fun. read more

Modern Martial Arts - Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Near Me - New York, New York

Both my boys ages 7 and 9 have been attending class here for over 4 years. Everything about MMA is fantastic! The instructors are caring and fun while commanding respect. The instructors and staff take the time to know each child and family individually. So much so, that I gave up my gym membership started taking adult classes and love it as much as my boys! I highly recommend for both children and adults!. read more

A great environment for Children , the Instructors and staff are friendly and professional, My son is a student for about 2 years and I have not one complaint thus far. I encourage parents to send their child of any age group to enjoy the programs they offer. read more

We sent our young daughter to MMA's summer camp and it was an extremely negative experience. First off, when we signed up our daughter, they didn't even ask us to fill out any forms or anything. What if my daughter got hurt or needed to be taken to the doctor? How would they know who to call? I actually had to ask them for forms to fill out. Each morning at dropoff, there would be a group of older boys beating on each other with padding as the staff sat at their desks. The younger children and many of the female campers would be off to the side so as not to get beat up. The kids played dodge ball at least twice a day - again a limited supervision activity and one where older boys would have the ability to propel a ball at high speeds at younger children. Great way to build self esteem!!! You can always hear yelling and screaming by the staff from the hallways. Finally, we got into a billing dispute with them because they asked my daughter not to complete her 5 weeks of camp (she only did two weeks) because they felt they didn't have enough supervision to accommodate her and they didn't refund the full amount owed to us. We are basically being penalized by their decision not to have our daughter back. Now we are disputing through the credit card company. read more