This place is not what it used to be. I am so disappointed with the current state of the dojang…read more You used to have to work hard for your black belt, but now it feels like they give them out like candy. This school is clearly more about the money than the success of its students. The instructors used to be more skilled and now it looks like they are just trying to get through the class rather than actually wanting to help students. More than half of the class is spent doing jumping jacks and conditioning exercises rather than actually teaching Taekwondo. I don't remember the last time I saw Hwang's focus on the quality of kicks, sparring techniques, blocks, stances, and the individual weaknesses of the kids. They typically rush through these aspects whenever they do go over them --which leaves the students with terrible form and a lack of skills for self-defense. There is barely any space for the parents to sit down as well. They used to have an upstairs area where parents and students could hang out but now they have been trying to lease the upstairs space for the past three years. It just shows that they care more about the money than the students and families that are a part of the dojang. It also feels like most of the instructors don't care anymore. I mean during belt-level tests, students sometimes have an instructor in front of them telling them step-by-step how to do the poomsae when students are supposed to memorize these to receive the belt. It's an absolute joke! This place is nowhere close to a school or an academy or anything to do with teaching. The instructors look like they have lost their passion for Taekwondo and teaching. If you are looking for a place to learn how to properly learn Taekwondo, this is NOT the place for you.

My daughter has been going to Hwang's for three years, during which time she has grown tremendously…read moreand gained a great deal of confidence. At age 5, she started at a different martial arts school in the area, to help her gain some skills to overcome her shyness. Unfortunately, this other school's teaching style did not accommodate kids like her, who are more hesitant and cautious, which was disappointing, because this was one of the reasons why we wanted her to try martial arts. At the first sign of nervousness, she was told that weakness and tears were "not allowed on the mat," and was made to sit out. At age 5. Which I found appalling. Enrolling instead at Hwang's was one of the best decisions we have made. The instructors have been patient and encouraging, never shaming her when she has struggled. Instead, with just the right amount of good-natured encouragement, she has felt supported and welcomed, has overcome so much anxiety and self-doubt, and three years later she is a proud junior black belt, at age 8. The confidence she has gained has carried over into her school and social life, and I can safely say that we largely have Hwang's to thank for this. I feel that the curriculum for kids is age-appropriate and a good balance and progression of physical and mental discipline. General kids' classes do not teach hardcore elite-level technique, and that is fine. Students seeking more intensive martial arts experience are free to sign up for private lessons, or ask about enrolling in the Olympic training class. There will always be fees involved with testing and tournaments, and black belt promotion involves time and financial commitment just as at any reputable taekwondo school. For the positive changes we have seen in our daughter through taekwondo at Hwang's, we strongly feel that the investment is well worth it. Also, black belts are registered with the Kukkiwon in Korea, which is widely known as the world taekwondo headquarters. In other words, Hwang's is legit. Lead instructors and masters have all been welcoming, friendly, and willing to take time to answer any questions or concerns. All the instructors, including the assistants, are excellent role models for the younger students. Master Hwang takes pride in each student who comes through the door. The enrollment has grown a lot recently, and the school is undergoing renovations to accommodate the growth. Parking can be a challenge, but there is extra space available farther up the "street"at PSE. Our family looks forward to many more years to come, and more dan stripes on those belts.

My boy has been a student at Zen Dragon since it was affiliated with Z-Ultimate. We wouldn't have…read morestayed this long if we weren't pleased. Sensei Jack is great with kids -- and really loud when their attention wanders. They have an assortment of billing plans, with slightly lower rates for longer commitments. Most are billed monthly, but for three, six, or twelve months. (We started with the three month plan, and switched to twelve when it was clear that the boy was sticking with it.) The basic monthly fee includes one 30-minute personalized class per week (one or two students), plus several 45-minute group classes per week. He started with group classes on Monday and Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings, and added sparring classes on Friday evenings when he earned his orange belt. They're very flexible about rescheduling the private lessons missed due to conflicting appointments, holidays, and so forth, so you always get the private lessons you pay for. Group classes, however, are not rescheduled. Our boy liked it so much he asked for additional classes for weapons training. Those are purchased by number of 30-minute lessons, rather than by calendar months. They have periodic promotions. One I want to do next time it's offered is free lessons for parents. What about the dojo? It's a nice space in a strip mall, with padded floors in the training area, clean floors in the lobby, office, and restrooms. The teaching style emphasizes avoiding conflict as the first step, but also handling one's self in a fight if it's unavailable. Some dojos treat martial arts mostly (or entirely) as a sport, while some focus on self-defense in a real fight. Here the emphasis is sport (plus exercise), and learning self-discipline, but there's also solid training on how to fight someone who is trying to hurt you. I'm rating this a five-star "best ever", but I don't have enough knowledge of other dojos to compare with.

From the owner: We specialize in Personal & Group Instruction for Men, Women and Children. We offer professional…read moreinstruction to all who are interested in taking the most practical system of martial arts out there. Whether you're a beginner or have trained before, we have something for you. We offer discounts to First Responders, Active and Retired Military. Call or stop by to schedule your first class of your FREE 2 week Trial.

I was fortunate to practice here when I was visiting the area. The instructor made me very welcome…read moreand the quality of practice was high. I am not from the area but I reached out on line about being able to visit, and got a fast and welcoming reply. The dojo facilities are nice, there's plenty of parking. I hope to return if I get back to that area!

Best women's empowerment and self defense - - -…read more My daughter started here since she was 5 years old. We have been part of Aikido Northshore for 8 years. This Aikido school provides the best physical and mental discipline. The head Sensei makes this place very special. My daughter is mastering the principles of mind body unification and applys them to all aspects of her life. This Japanese martial arts provides her power that is naturally hers through the unification of mind and body practiced in the non-violent arts of Aikido. After many years I notice my daughter cultivate deeper relaxation by learning how to remove tension and calm her mind.

Amazing environment, role models, and experience for my teenage son. Adults, amateurs, all levels…read moreare treated with respect and inspiring knowledge. HIGHLY RECCOMEND Louie, great instructor with the youth. 11/10 stars review.

The best in the business. If you are looking for a good workout or are looking to become a highly…read moretrained martial arts machine this the place! Coach Belton is the best in the business. They have kids programs, teens and adults. The gym is large and very well stocked. Stop by for a class and check it out! Everybody is very welcoming.

Let me preface this by saying: I am a fatty. I've been very overweight and unmotivated for a very,…read morevery long time and this year I decided to do something about it. I am SO grateful to have come across NWFA when I did. After seeing positive reviews online, I decided to try a kickboxing class (for free!) on a Wednesday evening. I walked in extremely nervous to try something new after years of not exercising. I was introduced to the coach, Louie and he showed me how to wrap my hands and gave me the basics of the stance, punches, and kicks used in the class. After an hour and a half of intense, educational kickboxing, I ordered gloves and gear that night. Classes are small and feel closer to personal training than some big mass produced class, the people training with you are amazing, and the staff are skilled and patient. Cost wise, NWFA is a steal. You can pay by class, $15 for an hour and a half, or by the month depending on the type of membership you want. 3 months of kickboxing twice a week with Louie (who I cannot praise enough- he is amazing!) and I'm down 30lbs and feeling strong and confident. Thank you, Louie and NWFA!

BEWARE. My daughter went in for a "free lesson". At the end they had her sign up for one year at…read more$2500 plus a $200 initiation fee. She thought it was a month trial and then she would pay month to month. Good life lesson for her and very slimy of them. Lucky we caught it before Oregon statue of 3 days to cancel. She smelled a rat and came to us. Yet to get the refund but it will come or they will see themselves in court.

Great place for some good island style food but they also make one of the best tomahawk steaks I've…read morehad. Service is always top notch.

It all began in 1994 when I first encountered Master Hufana in his school near Cross Road Mall…read morewhere I went there for purchasing a uniform for a competition in Canada.This initial interaction marked the beginning of a transformative relationship that extended beyond just providing me with martial arts gear. After the tournament in British Columbia, I decided to join TKD classes under Master Hufana's guidance. Over time, I also did some training with him on Traditional Arnis, a Filipino martial art known for its focus on weapon-based fighting techniques. Traditional Arnis emphasizes not only physical combat skills but also mental discipline and strategic thinking. In 2004, my life took a different turn as I was deployed to Afghanistan as part of the US Army. It was during this challenging period that the philosophy of martial arts, instilled by Master Hufana and the training experiences, became invaluable. The principles of martial arts such as tactics, alertness, preparedness, survival skills, fitness, and the code of the Samurai served as guiding lights in navigating the complexities of a war zone.The teachings of honesty, loyalty, respectfulness, and maintaining integrity at all times resonated deeply with me as I faced adversity in Afghanistan. The discipline instilled through martial arts training helped me to stay focused, resilient, and true to my martial arts values even in the most challenging circumstances.Master Hufana's philosophy not only enriched my understanding of martial arts but also equipped me with valuable life lessons that transcended the boundaries of combat sports. The fusion of Eastern martial arts philosophy with Western military service exemplifies the universal applicability and timeless wisdom embedded in martial arts traditions. With respect, MK-Samurai 2024.

This dojo has very experienced Sensei's. I've worked mostly with Sensei Gonzalez, Sensei Andy,…read moreSensei Middendorff and Sensei Scot. They have soo much experience and patience with anyone who wants to learn self defense. I have had to use some of these techniques in my work place and I can say for a fact that they know what they are teaching. Also they are all very welcoming and friendly!!! Definitely worth to try it at the least! You won't regret it!!!

Excellent martial arts dojo with true, real and practical applied techniques!…read moreSensei Yamamoto is first and foremost an integral and genuine human being with great morals and principles. He's got decades of practice and teaching experience. I recommend NMWA to any families looking for a team and family experience!

Our son tried out different martial arts places but he fell in love with Enso Center's Summer Camp…read moreand programs. Master Jason Mix really knows how to work with kids, no matter how their temperament differs and he is as patient as it comes. It has a really high black belt ratio in each class which is combined age and belts. I also like the fact that they don't push the students for belt test, it's about individual readiness. We also like the fact that the Enso Center promotes different community events and the environment is very inclusive. It's the only martial arts place I know of that provides adaptive program as well.

This is the best martial arts studio in the area, and by far the best I have ever attended. As a…read morekid and teen, I had earned black belts in two styles, and when my daughter turned 5, I picked it back up again. The classes were, amazingly a perfect fit for us both. The teachers are a family who is truly expert in what they teach. The main teacher, Jason, is the most advance martial artist I had ever met, but you wouldn't know it. The atmosphere is friendly, non-assuming, respectful and there is plenty of individual attention for all levels. One of the best features of the studio is the way adults and kids work together in the same classes, all learning from each other, while each learning at their level of knowledge and skill. I can't recommend Enso Center highly enough!