We absolutely love SMAC. We started with them with one of our sons before COVID, then tried our…read morebest to stay with them virtually for the first few months of lockdown. Now we're back and it's better than ever. Our other son, who is a year younger, is there too and they both love it. The best part is the confidence building--especially for my older son who works through his ADHD. I just love how Sensei Ray and his other teachers keep things light, but adhere to traditions and the idea of respect for others. There's no place I'd rather take my kids.

This place is the best. Clean, professional and the nicest staff ever! Sense Ray is kind, caring,…read morehumorous and very patient while working with his students! We tried other martial studios for our boy but this is by far the best (and also the one that's been around the longest). It's the perfect atmosphere for learning karate. You should have zero hesitation sending your children here (or joining yourself)!

By far, one of the most qualified gentlemen in the greater Scottsdale area. His knowledge and…read moreexperience show greatly in his teaching style and temperament. Rising sun/10 would rising sun again Look dad! No hands!

I had the honor of working with Sensei Tim for 8 years. I was impressed how much he cared about…read moreevery student and was always a positive influence. Whether for yourself or your children there is absolutely nobody better than Sensei Tim at Rising Sun Karate! Thank You!!!

Our son has had the privilege of attending AKF for the last several years. Over that time he has…read moreloved the opportunity to learn, grow in confidence, and embrace the martial arts. Master Mullis is absolutely amazing and truly cares about each of his students. We can't speak highly enough about AKF.

I waited TWO years before writing this review. Our journey…read morewith AKF Blackbelt Academy began with something no parent ever wants to experience. My son transferred to Tavan Elementary School in the Scottsdale school district mid-year during the 4th grade. On his second day at school, he was attacked from behind with a full-on chokehold by very large student he did not know. He came home with broken skin from fingernail marks, bruising, and red handprints completely around his neck. And what did the school administration do about it? NOTHING! Their excuse? The attacker was "disadvantaged" and "has it rough at home." I was furious. I started searching for a martial arts school that could teach my son (a child who wasn't naturally athletic) self-defense skills. After a lot of research and a recommendation from a friend, we decided to try AKF Blackbelt Academy. The school is led by Grand Master Tim Mullis, who has over 40 years of experience teaching Kyuki-Do, a mixed martial art that blends techniques from Karate, Taekwondo, Judo, and Hapkido. This style is incredibly effective because it teaches students how to defend themselves both standing and on the ground. (BTW: ground fighting skills are important because 80% of street fights end up being fought on the ground.) Two years later, it's like someone waved a magic wand over my son. My once non-athletic child has become a strong, confident young man. He's physically fit, disciplined, respectful, focused in school, and bully-proof. His grades have improved, his posture and confidence have completely changed, and most importantly-- he loves going to karate class. If you live in the Arcadia, East Phoenix, or Old Town Scottsdale area and are looking for a place that not only teaches self-defense but also builds character, confidence, and resilience, this place gets my highest recommendation.

What an amazing experience! My son has been working with Sensei Goldfarb for almost a month now. He…read moreis so excited every time he comes and goes from class! The techniques and training that he has acquired, are far above and beyond what I would've imagined. Not only is he learning a FANTASTIC martial art, but also the importance of knowledge and kindness. we have tried many sports, and most are quite fun for all of us. That being said, Sensei Goldfarb has introduced us to a whole new experience. We will continue to come here, and look forward to all of the adventures in the future!

Sensei Daniel is amazing & he keeps things interesting for the kids. We are so glad we go here!read more

Been training here since 1971! (They must be doing something right.)…read moreA family-oriented group. Met my wife here and we've trained together for over 40 years. No contracts, many classes all week long. Family rates apply. Where else could you find instructors who also pay dues? It's a 501c3 corporation. All instructors are registered/certified by the Japan Karate Association.

This is a terrific dojo! You just show up, benefit from the workout for both your brain and your…read morebody, and then one day, you have a black belt. Looking back, it all was a fine experience. The senseis and the students here are kind and respectful. Also friendly. There are after training and holiday get togethers that offer a chance to build new friendships. Starting when I was in my 30s, at 78 I still train twice a week. It is my happy place, where I can go to drop whatever problems or issues are pressing on me. And the benefits of those years of training are amazing. I've been able to maintain my weight, have excellent balance, and of course, feel a bit more confident about getting myself safely out of a bad situation. But, as I also learned from training, it's even better not to get into those bad situations in the first place. I'm so glad I did my 30 something year old self the grand favor of checking out this dojo, liking what I saw, and engaging.

Times like these I wish I could leave more than five stars. What can I say about a family run…read morebusiness that runs like a well oiled machine from top to bottom? I grew up with a lovely but overprotective mom who wouldn't let me participate in risky sports like football. Finally I got to play as a junior and it opened up my eyes to team sports / respect / discipline / control like nothing I had experienced before. These are things that are hard to teach in the home, it takes a village to raise good humans. As a parent of an almost 8 year old, I'm always looking for ways to help them grow and stretch their abilities and confidence without putting them in danger. This is the PERFECT place for that kind of challenge / growth. The way I see it, my kid gets all the benefits of team sports like football but at a fraction of the risk. This family is incredible and I have nothing but good things to say about their ability to challenge and help my son thrive. We've been coming for more than a year now and couldn't be happier with every aspect of the services they offer.

I am a student at Legacy . I think they are so amazing. They teach us very good and we can protect…read moreourselves awesomely because they taught us that. They are funny and all the instructors are very nice. They get us in shape and they get us healthy and they teach us to persevere.

My kid signed up for a six month contract of classes at Goshin. The classes were pretty good but…read moreshe couldn't continue them for medical reasons. We told the owner we were quitting early because of the back condition. After the contract was completed he continued to charge us a monthly fee. When I asked, he said, "Read your contract -- it says I will continue to charge you." I feel like his business practices are fraudulent. we would not recommend this school to anyone.

Came here last Thurs. for a trail class as my friend's son is also taking karate here…read more The owner of the academy greeted my son warmly and spoke to him with kindness and treated him with respect. He and my son had quite the conversation going over what was expected from my son during class, what my son can expect to learn while taking karate. My son really enjoyed talking to Bob (I believe that was his name). Class started right on time and my son had a great time. After class, he came up to me and told me how much fun he had. Which is important to any parent! There were 3 instructors on the floor the day we went with around 12 students. With 3 instructors, I am sure the class could accomodate more students~ it was nice that the day we were there, it was not too crowded. I'm not sure who Shantel spoke to but Bob was not pushy at all. He simply handed me the class schedule and asked me to contact him if I was interested in having my son take karate. Overall, a very good experience!

My kids have been practicing Ninjitsu with Master Maui for a few months now. They love coming here…read moreso much. Every week it's excitement to come in and see what he has planned for them. His exercises and activities keep the kids moving, motivated and learning. They get to participate here more than any other studio class we've taken anywhere else. My kids were able to take 3 classes (that's a whole week of classes) to try it out before we owed our first payment. Which, I also think is better than any other studio in the area that we have tried. Come see for yourself and sign your kids up for a trial class. No contracts, just month to month billing. Such a fun way to wear out your kids and watch them learn new skills.

Master Maui is great with the kids and he clearly works hard to make sure they learn. We haven't…read morebecome consistent students yet but we plan to.

Paradise Valley School of Karate is the best in the Valley!…read moreAlong with teaching karate basics the instructors emphasize discipline, structure and manors through games and training! Whether you are a beginner or an advanced student, both boys and girls are encouraged to excel and earn higher skill levels. The instructors are top notch! I highly recommend PV School of Karate!

I have been going here for years, the Karate class is great for both kids and adults! However the…read moreKali class is where I ended up spending most of time. Double stick, knife defense, empty hand and padded stick sparring! So much fun and good for you! Maybe just maybe you may catch some lightsaber sparring ......

My son is loving the Aikido class there! Sensei Al and all his classmates are so nice and fun…read more Great way to learn self defense and mindfulness. Great for kids and adults.

I have been Karate-ka since 1968, and have practiced around the world…read more I can, without hesitation, recommend this wonderful ad welcoming Dojo. This is a woman owned business a rarity in the world of martial arts. The Dojo is a safe place for children, older adults, and everyone in between to be both intellectually and physically challenged. If you are a beginner, young or old, or a long time practitioner you will feel welcome here