The 70's and 80's had it right with Bruce Lee, Chuck Norris, Jackie Chan, and who could forget the…read moreiconic Mr. Miyagi and "Daniel son"?!? I mean, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles came back 3 times since it was initially introduced! What show do you know that does that!?! Then the 90's came with Wu Tang dropping sick beats about it, and Jet Li looking inferior, while Jackie Chan continued to school people, and then hit Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. THAT movie really did it for me, showing grace, beauty AND strength. From early in life I had always been dazzled by the dynamic abilities of a martial artist and wanted to be a martial artist, but growing up in a small town in the Midwest, we didn't really have schools that taught martial arts, so I was left to the teachings of a rat on my TV as I mimicked some of the moves. But as you enter adulthood, somewhere along the way you hope that your children will live out your dreams, and that's when I decided to sign up my son. Over the past 9 years, across several states (MN, ND, CA, TX), I have had the pleasure of meeting many masters in Tae Kwon Do. They all have taught my son wonderful skills, but even more importantly, they helped shape his character. So when looking for a martial arts Instructor and school, I look for four things: 1. A credible instructor 2. Technique AND philosophy 3. Clean training facility 4. A FUN atmosphere At Martial Arts World, it is not just Tae Kwon Do that they teach; they also mix in a little bit of Hapkido, and Judo (Jui Juitsu) in their self-defense, so there's a better chance for practical application to the real world should you ever need to defend yourself. Sr. Instructor Villamizar is a true martial artist with over 25+ years of training in various forms. His staff also has years of training with excellent technique. I was extremely impressed with the level of knowledge and skills they all posses, but what stands out the most is the philosophy that Sr. Instructor Villamizar teaches. His goal is to build life champions, and he works with his students on goal setting not just in martial arts, but also in their personal lives. I love that they don't just teach about kicking and punching, and even more so, they all have a true appreciation for the history of the arts. While my son has been training for 9 years, I was finally invited to join later on and have been training for almost 5 years. (My childhood dreams have finally come true!! Eeekkk!!!) And maybe you too are wondering, "Can adults start even though I'm not in shape?" Or, "isn't it too late in life?" or, "But I'm injured and limited in what I can do" Well, I'm here to tell you, it is never too late, and any ability can learn!! For something that has stuck around for centuries....CENTURIES...there must be something worth learning here, right? Much like Yoga, Martial Arts can be for anyone. It is all based on your ability, and despite any injuries or limitations you have, anything can be modified. Martial Arts isn't just UFC kicking and punching, it is philosophy, art, flexibility, strength, fun, AND PRACTICAL. I recently chose to start training at this school not just because of this school meeting my four requirements, but also because of the professionalism and care from the staff. They have classes available for all ability levels, after school programs, and summer camp. So stop singing, "Everybody was King Fu fighting" and check them out!! And always remember, "You don't have to be great to start, you just have to start to be great."

Master V is amazing, his patience and dedication is unmatched, my daughter is enrolled in the after…read moreschool program and cries to stay longer. She is picked up from school and not only is she having fun but she is learning fundamental life lessons, inner strength, inner voice and courage to stand up for what's right, I can not say enough good about Martial Arts World.

BEST KEPT SECRET?? Not really. (A reference to my 2023 posting)…read more After almost 3 years of my high school age son taking lessons here he was suddenly and unexpectedly placed into a class of about 18 children about 6-7 years old. When I spoke with the owner about it that same day, and again with my wife and I the next morning (today) we asked that our 15-year old son be moved back into a class that was age appropriate. Our son is 6 feet tall and 190 lb by the way. When the facility owner continued to try to justify the new program that resulted in this and repeatedly REFFUSED to place him back into his old age appropriate class (that was also training that same day) we told the owner we would have pull him from the class if he could not train and attend his normal practices WITH HIS OWN AGE GROUP, The owner responded by saying, "Then pull him from the program". So we in fact did that just moments ago. I have more I could, say but will reserve those negative concerns as I don't want to pile on, but clearly have an overall different opinion of this venue now that I have been able to see things over a longer course of time. Not to mention the other parental stories I have heard. Thus, I felt the need to clarify my first posting, which has obviously changed. The positive....., the facility is nice! Dennis Warren, Longwood

This is a top notch karate center for kids. The owner Mr Friedman ensures the kiddos receive good…read moretraining. The front desk manager Ms Joycelyn makes you feel so welcomed. I highly recommend this center to anyone. My child has been going to this center for over 4 years.

Occee's Victory Martial Arts has been an incredible gift to our family for the past six years…read more Their karate program goes far beyond teaching kids martial arts it instills discipline, respect, and confidence that will carry you through life. The instructors Mr. Graham and Mr. Iosua truly care about each child, meeting them where they are and encouraging them to grow, not just in skill but also in character. Occee's VMA emphasizes traditional values such as respect for others, perseverance, and responsibility, while also keeping the classes fun and engaging. My child has a sense of accomplishment and we can see the positive changes at home, in school, and in his overall attitude. This is more than just a karate school it's a place where children learn life lessons, build friendships, and gain the self-discipline needed to succeed. I highly recommend Occee's VMA to any family looking for a positive, structured, and uplifting environment for their kids. - Rodriguez family

My son has been at ATA since he was in 1st grade - he's now a junior in high school. The Ocoee…read morelocation is his 3rd stop as we have changed schools either due to switching jobs or karate school consolidation. My son loves it in Ocoee under the leadership of Master Neary. He has really blossomed, has achieved 3rd degree Black Belt status and is training toward instructor certification. This location has classes for all ages and experience levels as well as fitness classes, nutrition and diet planning assistance, TRX training and a host of other services. If you live in the Ocoee/Winter Garden area and are in the market for karate or fitness training for you and/or your kids, consider Action ATA. Bright, clean facilities and positive upbeat staff provide a wonderful experience!!

WE LOVE THE ZEN LIFE CENTER! I'd highly recommend Master Hoehn and his team at The Zen!…read more The 1st day my son went to summer camp he came back saying "yes ma'am", "no ma'am" and having better eye contact when speaking to adults, which just filled my heart with joy! Maybe because I was raised as an army brat and that was the only way to talk to adults on the base, but I think it helped me so much as an adult and I always wanted to pass that down to my kid too. They offer the best summer camp options and after school program. We are just so lucky to have found a caring and safe group of people to help us out with teaching our kid self defense and life skills. They're known as one of the top, if not the top in my opinion, self defense schools in Florida. My son is in elementary school and came home one day showing me some moves he learned in class and literally knocked me off my feet, slamming me to the ground. It was not my best look, but I am so proud and happy to say that I think he can defend himself in a bad situation and am looking forward to everything else he'll learn at Zen. They're very inexpensive too! The facility is clean and they're big on safety measures right now during COVID. We are just so blessed to have found this school. If you're interested, check them out! They're the best!

This is a wonderful place! Master Hoehn and the rest of his staff are all amazing! My daughter had…read morea Birthday party there, my son goes to Karate and camp! Everything they do here , they make it fun for the kids and you can trust that your children are in good hands! They are all kind and are patient and kind towards the children that go there. I am so lucky to have found this wonderful place!

I joined the gym to kill time, so I could put my son into boxing classes. Everyone here is very…read moreprofessional and courteous. My son loves coming to the classes and I am in the best shape in years. The owners and instructors are very pleasant, and they also teach the kids respect.

This place is a truly amazing. We recently moved to the area from Miami and we're seeking an after…read moreschool program that offered transportation but wanted something more than just a daycare since our children had previously been in one. Rene's Dynamic Sports Center was a hidden gem and a family we never knew we needed until they welcomed our four children with open arms and open hearts. Not only do they assist with homework assignments like most after school programs but they also teach the kids karate. With karate lessons comes an opportunity for learning and growing, discipline and respect. Not only do my children love it but I love seeing them grow and practice to achieve their goals. If you have a child with a disability, DO NOT FEAR. This is a safe place. Our youngest daughter has a seizure condition and the staff has gone above and beyond to work with her intellectual and behavioral disabilities to make sure she is happy and comfortable. You will not regret your decision to enroll your children here.

Highly recommend HERO!!!…read more I don't see karate as an extra-curricular. I see it as a tool in my son's empowerment journey.....the approach at Hero is one of patience, while maintaining fundamental discipline of karate. Video games, after school Art, stuff like that, I see as extracurricular. My son's drive to hit the mark and do the right thing and exercise discipline when in Michael's presence is mind blowing. Outside of karate, he lacks focus, self discipline, etc.. Once he steps on that, mat, I've never seen him so focused and dedicated. Glad to have him at HERO. THEY are amazing at what THEY do and I appreciate THEIR hard work,dedication and patience with my kiddo..

What a wonderful dojo! Sensei Michael is the best there is. We are so grateful to have Sensei…read moreMichael and they Hero family in our lives--I wish I could give them 10 stars!

Went with a friend who looked into an incident with their kid here. Staff seemed dismissive of her…read moreconcerns and left me unconvinced of their ability to resolve the issue to their child's wellbeing.

DO NOT TAKE YOUR CHILDREN THERE IF THEY HAVE SPECIAL NEEDS!…read more The coach will shift the blame onto the child who was attacked. My own child, who has special needs, was viciously assaulted by a group, yet the coach insisted there were no cameras but he was sure that the incident never happened. Despite another adult confirming the horrifying attack during interviews, we received no validation from the coach. Instead, he constantly attempted to sweep everything under the rug, showing a dismissive attitude. Even after expressing my concerns that my child is easily eloped, the coach, instead of assuring me of my child's safety, suggested it would be better if my child didn't return to his class. My child has done martial arts before; he knows the difference when he is training than when he is being hurt on purpose. The fact that the coach dismissed our concerns instead of suggesting talking to the other kids about being understanding and respectful towards children with special needs is deeply troubling. It's Important for instructors in any setting to foster an inclusive environment where all students feel safe and supported. It's unacceptable for any child, especially one with special needs, to be subjected to such mistreatment without proper acknowledgment and action from those in authority.

Such a friendly and welcoming environment! I've been looking for a good mma gym and when I come to…read moretrain I feel like they really take the time to show each move so it's done correctly with no judgment. I also noticed they have people with different belts so I'm always learning a lot from all levels. Plus, I have a 4 year old son and he loves Coach Bam Bam and Coach Joey! When ever kids are there they have a spot for them to play games and/or watch movies so it actually allows mom or dad to train. Plus they have classes for them too. Very kid friendly!

Great environment to learn Brazilian Jujitsu and more. They have multiple classes, for kids and…read moreadults. Classes include, bootcamp, kickboxing, MMA, Jujitsu both GI and no GI, women's self defence and more.