I wanted to share some of the highlights that explain why I think this karate school is great and…read moreworthy of consideration by anyone looking to pursue a martial arts education for themselves or their family. Nam's Karate has been in the Pittsburgh area since 1979. It is deeply established and rooted in the tradition, knowledge, and understanding of the art of Tang Soo Do. The Masters and Instructors are knowledgeable, personable, and driven. They take the time to work one-on-one with students and to build positive working relationships that are based on trust and enhance both growth and learning. Nam's Karate has one of the best pricing plans around. They offer several different payment options and discounts based on the program you enroll in. After completing the white belt program, students have the opportunity to attend as many classes as they like, as they are scheduled at their campus. The time slots for these classes are numerous and fit most schedules. In addition to class opportunities, Nam's Karate offers monthly clinics and workshops to help students in breaking (boards are an additional cost, but the breaking clinic is free), sparring, weapon, sword work, one-step techniques, advanced belt requirements, and more. Other offerings to encourage students to grow include: Nam's Leadership Team, Academic Achievers Team, Kick to Excellence, NMAChampionships, Tiger Demo Team, and Dream Team (the competition team). These opportunities exist so students can grow not only in their martial arts training, but also in themselves. Nam's Karate is also an incredibly family-oriented environment. Students of all ages and all abilities are welcome and encouraged to train here. Families train together, often side by side in class. Each student's reason for training is different, but all students strive to and are encouraged to be their personal best. The Masters and Instructors actively engage with students and help them in both setting and meeting their goals. Students are challenged and pushed outside of their comfort zones in a way that encourages growth and brings about confidence. Nam's Karate focuses on and thrives on community and familial values. Affordable events exist throughout the year to promote and encourage students to spend time together and enjoy one another's company both inside and outside the Dojang. Students can take part in the summer day "kamp", an annual weekend retreat, lock-in style events, movie nights, picnics, and holiday parties. At Nam's Karate, students can expect to gain many skills, but some of the most important are for self-improvement and character development. Students at Nam's Karate are held accountable to being honest, self-disciplined, and respectful individuals. They are encouraged to perform their best in all of their daily undertakings. There are so many great things that I could continue to say about Nam's Karate, but I think you can tell that it is a positive environment...I think anyone considering trying out a karate program should give Nam's Karate a call.

I purchased 2 36-month Black Belt programs (for me and my son) at Nam's Korean Karate School and…read morepaid in full at the time of signing a contract. This payment plan enticed me to save a significant amount of money on the program over time vs. other payment plan options which were presented. Two months later, due to unforeseen circumstances, I needed to move 500 miles away to a different state. Although the contract stated that no refunds would be given after 3 business days, they were willing to provide a partial refund. Unfortunately, it took several communication attempts and the amount offered was negligible, not reflective of their pricing structure, and presented as a final decision with no room for negotiation. Please note that at the time of this review, I am still unable to resolve this issue with the business. For those of you contemplating joining Nam's Korean Karate School (or any martial arts studio in this area), please learn from my experience. I suggest researching the 1997 Commonwealth Fisher v. Tiger Schulmann court case (argued in 2001) which ruled that these businesses are not required to comply with the Pennsylvania Health Club Act because they do not meet the definition of a health club ("a person, firm, corporation, organization, club or association engaged in the sale of memberships in a health spa, racquet club, figure salon, weight reduction center or other physical culture service enterprise offering facilities for the preservation, maintenance, encouragement or development of physical fitness or physical well-being.") The PA Health Club Act provides certain protections to consumers entering long-term contracts and can be found in its entirety online. It is my understanding that some martial arts studios in PA willingly comply even though they may not be required to by law. After all, the physical health benefits of martial arts are becoming increasingly well-documented, and "martial arts, such as karate," is specifically recommended as vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise for adults and children in the most recent (2008) Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans set forth by the US Department of Health and Human Services. Even at the time of writing this review, this business's own Yelp page (for the Mt. Lebanon location) lists "physical fitness" and "improving strength and flexibility" among the specialties it offers. If I had purchased a membership somewhere that elected to follow these regulations, then I would have received a fair refund under my circumstances (i.e., moving more than 25 additional miles away from the facility). Be a more informed consumer than I was. For example, as you shop around for a dojo, you may want to ask if they willingly comply with the Health Club Act. Or, if you have already entered a contract, you may want to find out whether the business is adequately bonded (which would protect you in case a business closed or filed for bankruptcy) - a question I wish I had asked prior to handing over a large sum of money. Otherwise, if you find yourself in a situation like mine, without sufficient consumer protection in this area, you may need to seek help from agencies like your credit card company, the Better Business Bureau, or office of the Attorney General. Please note that this review is solely based on my opinion that I have encountered poor customer service and unjust business practices in dealing with Nam's Korean Karate School. It is not related to the quality of instruction or environment. We only participated for 2 months, and while we were quite satisfied during that time, it was not a sufficient amount of time to provide a meaningful review on that aspect of their business. I hope this review helps others in making a well-informed decision about whether to enter into a contract with this business.

Not only is PCC the most practical martial arts / self defense training you'll find in Pittsburgh,…read moreit's also super fun and a great value! David & crew will enlighten, push your limits, and leave you feeling better prepared for the unknown.

Mr Jox is encouraging, kind, and teaches not only martial arts but respectful and responsible…read moreactions as well

Kang's is an awesome Tae Kwon Do school. I started my son in the Little Dragons class and was so…read moreimpressed with his progress that I signed myself and my daughter up. We've all learned so much. I feel good knowing that my family can defend ourselves should anything happen. I highly recommend this class.

Sifu Daniels is an exceptional martial arts instructor. I had the privilege of training under him…read morefrom 1985 to 1990, and his teachings have had a lasting impact on my life. His skill, patience, and dedication to his students are unmatched. I hold him in the highest regard and deeply regret not being able to continue my training with him. Sifu Daniels is truly a master of his craft. I remember Sifu telling my class that we should not brag about our practice and if he ever heard that we were bragging (think Johnny Lawrence in the karate Kid 1) that he would take away our rights to wear of Fire Dragon School T-shirts. He would tell us to leave our egos in the glove compartment of the car when we got there. This really resonated with me. My brother thought it would be funny to grab me and put me in a bear hug, saying, "come on, let me see some of your stuff." I refused many times but he persisted and was taunting me. Finally, to get him to stop, I used a move that Sifu Daniels taught us in class and got out of the bear hug quite effortlessly, stunning my brother. He signed up for classes right after that and became a student of Sifu Daniels also. We eventually both had a good laugh about that time.

Perfect environment for both adults and children to continue or begin their martial arts training…read more Real-world training by knowledgeable and patient instructors. Take a class with your kids, you'll all have a great time while building self-defense skills and confidence.

This school is one of the most positive environments I have been in. Nothing here is given to you,…read morebut the instructors will spend time with you and help you earn each skill. There are children and parents in the classes and the instructors are able to explain everything clearly to both. This isn't a typical rush them in/out school, the instructors are great, detailed, positive, and passionate about their art. It also provides not only a self defense skill, it is a awesome work out! After taking this for about 5 months I can tell you that my flexibility has increased as well as my confidence. They have introductory plans for new students and it's worth a shot, you got nothing to lose!

My 15 year old Son has been taking private lessons with Chris for about 8 months and the changes…read moreare dramatic in both his skills and attitude.Chris is a certified Boxing Coach with an awesome demeanor, he knows how to relate to teenagers and get the most out of them. He is very flexible with his schedule as school work and other sports seasons come and go. The Owners are 2 of the nicest people you will meet and the gym is the cleanest workout facility you will ever walk into.

Research the benefits of martial arts training. Then multiply those benefits by the advantage of…read moreEXCELLENCE in these instructors and their teaching styles. What they have established is truly exceptional! As an early childhood educator with over 17 years of professional experience, I highly recommend Classical Martial Arts. Children need good foundations to thrive. In my observation of the children's classes, not only are students getting the physical activity they need (and also often lacking in today's digital age), they are also learning in every area of development. Socially, they are learning respect and compassion for peers and how to work with others to accomplish goals. Emotionally, they are learning self respect, discipline, confidence, positive coping strategies, and the value of hard work and determination. Sensei Gaddis charismatically adds examples and anecdotes to help children make the connection between the lessons and principles of martial arts and relevant situations in their daily lives. For myself, I was very nervous if I could do this. As an adult, learning something new can be intimidating, and I have my share of personal obstacles. But the positive, supportive atmosphere of the class gives a confidence boost to determination in facing obstacles and overcoming them. I have always been an advocate of positive coping strategies. I believe people should always seek to learn and to improve themselves. The benefits of martial arts training for adults are numerous, and again, those benefits are greatly enhanced by the teaching style and distinct atmosphere established at Classical Martial Arts. Go discover your potential!

Mr. Gaddis is an awesome instructor…read more Within the first lesson he quickly gains the trust and confidence of both beginners and experienced students. The studio itself is immaculate. The space is clean, safe, and conveniently located. The dojo offers many different styles of Japanese martial arts, instead of just one, and has classes for all ages. Highly recommended.

Best karate and martial arts instruction in the Pittsburgh area. All teachers are experts and able…read moreto adapt to your needs.

Excellent detailed instruction. Taking lessons for over a year.Good for dedicated ,serious…read morestudents.Master Jordan is an excellent teacher and trained in numerous martial arts.