++1. A rare gem among the other karate dojo…read more This is one of the late traditional karate dojos around. If you're looking for a place to learn self-defense, this is the place. Unlike other dojos where you pay for your belt color, Louisiana Karate Association makes you earn it. There are no free things in life. I prefer earning my "stripes," especially if I have to defend myself against an attack. Sensei Mikami is one of the oldest and renowned instructors around. He was a former Japan Karate Champion back in his day...so you know his karate is legit. He focuses on physical and mental discipline. This dojo has a reasonable size class, so you know you'll learn and get the attention you deserve. The other karate students are experienced and really helpful when it comes to needing help. There is a waiting area for parents and guests to sit to watch. If you're unsure, it's a great way to see if this dojo is a good fit for you. So, if you're looking to learn how to defend yourself and get a good workout, this is the karate dojo for you in Metairie.

What made me join was because I wanted to learn better discipline to help me out with my…read moreinvolvement in other sports. I'd be saying a major lie if I said it hasn't helped me in that department. Sensei Mikami is not only the real deal but also a legend in Shotokan Karate. Physical fitness and self defense were some nice bonuses for me that I have gotten out of training here. All of his instructors (too many to name on here because they're all great) are well qualified and specialize in different aspects of karate so if for some reason there is a different teacher than who you are accustomed to having you will still learn something important while being here.

They were great, until they were not. We were very happy at Tiger Rock, until we saw the wizard…read morebehind the curtain. My daughter was injured at a tournament- not unheard of in a contact sport. However, from the franchise to the corporate level, they were clearly less interested in my concerns and more interested in my membership. It took almost 4 months to even get a call back from corporate. It took another month to get a copy of the rules. This was 5+ years into her sparring. Speaking to students at other franchises, many were given written rules with their sparring gear, but that was not the case with our location. Their rules state: TOUCH TO LIGHT CONTACT does not cause pain, injury, penetration, or visible movement of the opponent receiving the technique. Points are achieved with this type of contact. MEDIUM CONTACT is not promoted but can happen accidentally as a result of fast movement while sparring. No points are given for medium contact and up to two points can be awarded to the other competitor. HARD CONTACT is never sanctioned (results in disqualification). They tell competitors that this will be enforced, but they do not unless it is truly blatant. When I spoke the instructor, it was implied that the contact was not excessive, rather her feelings were hurt because she wasn't being as included by the popular girls (which I will say was her choice, but also, hurt feelings don't leave contact marks and bruising). Further, after age 12, competitors are supposed to be separated by gender. My daughter was regularly partnered with males, including males over 16. When I expressed concerns and said that was against the rules, I was told they could not ensure she would not spar males, even adult males, so we made the decision after 6.5 years to leave, literally days before her 4th degree black belt pretest. It is clear that while we thought we were a team working to help students, including my daughter succeed, that thought went one way. If you are a parent who stays right there watching and makes sure you get everything in writing and are not be timid about stopping things you see unsafe, maybe they are ok. When my daughter was hurt (it was relatively minor- split lip, mild whiplash, and possible mild concussion and- again- not uncommon in contact sports) and we felt the opponent who kicked her too hard and in the wrong location was a poor sport, we found out how little our instructor/franchise owner had our back. We also found out how little we knew about what our rights were as a competitor/family. We were not really given the option of her finishing the round. (and while the girl who kicked her got gold, my kiddo got silver and we couldn't be more proud of her). Though we do try to focus on the positive experiences we had, which were many. Unfortunately, the negative ones were about safety, which made them nonnegotiable. We found another school and have been pleased with their responsiveness and attention to safety.

Tiger Rock in Old Metairie offers a great kickboxing class! The instructors are friendly and…read moreknowledgeable and they put on a class that's both challenging and FUN! I look forward to kickboxing every day!

He is known to me by Sifu but so there's no confusion, this is with regard to Sifu Tommy. He taught…read moreme the long form for years and I have only recently attended his formal class. From China, he is known to other instructors as a true master and traces a direct, immediate and continuous line to the earliest masters. Sifu is an oracle to the past who knows and can teach modern applications. It's my honor and privilege to be his student.

From the owner: The Real Tai Chi - Yee Chuen Do. Self defense classes. We specialize in teaching longevity and…read morehealth, physics, mental health, movement, and self defense. Tai Chi is a holistic practice that offers a wide range of physical, mental, and emotional benefits. Its gentle, flowing movements, combined with mindfulness and deep breathing, make it accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you're seeking improved physical fitness, stress reduction, pain management, or enhanced mental well-being, Tai Chi can be a valuable addition to your wellness routine. Tai Chi, from improving physical health to enhancing mental well-being. Strength and Flexibility: Tai Chi involves a series of gentle, controlled movements that engage different muscle groups, enhancing both strength and flexibility. Balance: The practice of Tai Chi focuses on weight shifting and postural alignment, which can significantly improve balance. Stress Reduction: Mindfulness: helps individuals become more aware of their thoughts and emotions, reducing stress and anxiety. Reduced Depression Symptoms: reduction in depressive symptoms and improved overall mental well-being. Enhanced Cognitive Function: memory and attention. Alignment: Tai Chi emphasizes proper body alignment, leading to better posture and reduced strain on the spine and muscles. Body Awareness: which can lead to better overall physical health. Social Interaction: Community: providing emotional support and a sense of belonging.

Dropped by the gym while in town and Charlie was so welcoming. Great coaching and the members were…read morefriendly and informative . I felt so comfortable and had some good rolls. Appreciate the warm welcome and definitely coming back when in town again. The gym is nice and clean. I've been to a few gyms and this one is top notch. Thank you for welcoming me and my gf. We had a great time.

10/10 Would and will recommend to anyone passing through NOLA!…read more Not only did they allow my wife and I to drop in, they let our kids who train jump in on the lesson as well! Outstanding representation of a clean and friendly training environment. If we're ever traveling through NOLA again we won't even look anywhere else.

Mid City MMA is a special place! Highly recommend to any & everyone! The gym offers many classes…read moreand membership includes access to all of them. Great location, great members & amazing coaches! Very clean, professional and effective training. All skill levels are represented at the gym; perfect home for first-timers & MMA veterans. Best place ever!

Muy buenos entrenadores, las mejores vibras siempre en los entrenamientos y gran atención, the best…read moregym. Lo recomiendo 100%

For the last two years, Third Gate has made a remarkable impact not just on my physical health, but…read morealso on my confidence and grit. They take self-defense to a whole new level, and I can guarantee you'll feel more prepared to face unexpected situations life might throw your way. I enjoy the cardio bag, BJJ, and Krav Maga classes. The instructors are skillful, humble, and motivating, and they will meet you at your level of experience and ability. I've brought my brother, who has a developmental disability, to several classes with me, and he's had a blast learning self-defense while being treated with the utmost respect and dignity. They're just the best!

Sorry you had to retire. Miss the excellent Tae Kwon Do training. Sorry you had a few rotten eggs…read morenot happy with taking responsibility for their own actions and inactions!

My wife and I attended with one of our children. We loved it. The instructor, with a doctorate in…read moreeducation, was excellent.