I do not ordinarily write reviews, particularly negative ones, but after several months of reflection I felt compelled to share my experience with Round Rock Karate Academy. I have chosen to remain anonymous for personal reasons. My children were unenrolled a few months ago, and I had initially hoped that, through communication and patience, some of my concerns would improve. Unfortunately, after repeated attempts to seek clarity, I ultimately lost confidence in the process. My greatest frustration was the lack of transparency regarding student progress. Children would continue training for many months, sometimes well over a year, without being invited to test, yet parents received little proactive feedback explaining what specifically needed improvement. Only when parents enquired about testing would concerns or explanations suddenly emerge. As a parent without a martial arts background, I was not expecting automatic advancement. However, I did expect clear communication and a structured pathway. The stripe testing process in particular felt inconsistent and unpredictable. Since stripe progression is required before belt testing, I expected there to be a clear schedule or at least some transparency around evaluations. Instead, stripe tests often seemed to occur without warning, leaving students unprepared and discouraged when they did not pass. The overall system increasingly gave the impression of being financially driven rather than genuinely developmental. Parents were repeatedly told never to ask about testing because instructors alone would decide when a child was ready. Whilst I appreciate maintaining standards, there appeared to be very little visible progress tracking or measurable roadmap for advancement. I was also disappointed by the conduct of one senior instructor in particular. I personally heard remarks directed towards students such as "don't waste my time" and "why are you begging for tests." Regardless of intent, I found that manner of communication inappropriate for an environment meant to foster confidence, discipline, and respect. To be fair, not all aspects of the school were negative. Several instructors like Mr Green, Ms Ani etc were genuinely kind, professional, and invested in the students' development. However, I also noticed some capable instructors leave over time, which added to my concerns regarding the overall culture. I should add that the overwhelmingly positive online reviews do not reflect many of the private conversations I have had with other parents over the years. Several expressed similar frustrations but felt reluctant to leave because of the considerable time and money already invested, as well as concerns that their children would effectively have to start again elsewhere. This review is not written out of bitterness, but after months of consideration and disappointment. I simply hope other parents find this perspective useful when making an informed decision. read more

We absolutely love Round Rock Karate Academy, their owner and all their instructors. They are very professional, fun and show a sincere interest in our children. They also perform volunteer service in the Community. We couldn't be more happy! read more

Round Rock Karate Academy - Martial Arts Near Me - Round Rock, Texas

Daniel is a great instructor and a fine example of a human being. He makes it a point to remember each and every student's name, both first and last, as well as the name of their parents. He makes it easy for the kids to feel comfortable in his classes. Daniel is doing a great job at teaching Tang So Do and the Korean words that go along. He encourages his students but does not reprimand them. We looked long and hard for a karate studio before we signed up. I mean it was a couple of years. After meeting with him in person and reading a couple of emails, I could tell that he was an upfront and honest guy. I highly recommend this place to anyone looking for an extracurricular activity for their kids! read more

Round Rock Karate Academy - Martial Arts Near Me - Round Rock, Texas

I got my Grandson a six week starter program for his birthday. I wanted to see if he would like it. He loves it. His parents have signed him up past the six weeks and they love the place too so yes I would definitely recommend this Academy. I got a chance to watch him and the instructors were awesome with the kids. read more

One of THE BEST Martial Art School. It's not only about Martial Art and Technique that you learn here, it Body Mind and Spiritual connection and mostly important the Quality Mind Set. We did shop around different martial art school but we found Round Rock Karate Academy to best fit the Vision and concept of Martial Art. Sam Bo Nim is a Great person and the Instructors are so great as well. Not everyone can instruct the class, instructors needs to be certified so you are in good hands no matter whom you work with. This is a school of martial art without boundaries to learn. If you or your kids are really interested, then no one is stopping you to come for class. My son comes all 5 days possible. Extra Saturday class (1hour class) is of such a great extra class that you learn very quality lesson. All these comes with no extra cost to you and that is so great of Sam Bo Nim (Daniel Dalenela). There are online videos for member to watch and learn if you are really into martial art and again comes with no extra cost. This is such a great resource. If you are capable then Sam Bo Nim don't holds student back to make money per month, (there is no contract to sign. If you don't like you can leave the school and there is no penalty and trust me once you are here you will not leave), He would let student advance and learn higher level material. His philosophy is if you work hard than you get what you deserve. It is not how long you stayed with school, it's how hard you worked. My son he joined in 7 months back as a white belt at 10th Gup level and now he is already Green belt with two stripes at 4th Gup level. And it's not he just got it, he was tested real hard to his limit and that gives us satisfaction as well. Also With in 2 months of joining the school he participated in Tang So Doo 13th Annual tournament at San Antonio as a white belt but competing with 2-3 higher rank belts and he got into first place. That's what it tell all about the quality of Round Rock Karate Academy VS others. In very short after all this long text, you won't find any other martial art school any close to what Round Rock Karate Academy does with its Disciples in mind. read more

Would highly recommend! The owner and his staff are very friendly. He makes the classes enjoyable. If you're in the area and considering karate look no further! You'll be glad you did. read more

Master Delanella and his staff are fantastic with my son. He has grown in a number of ways since joining the school last year. I highly recommend Round Rock Karate Academy to anyone looking to learn martial arts or having your kids learn. Everyone here is great! read more

This school is awesome. The atmosphere of the classes are very friendly and encourage learning. The instructor, Daniel Delenela, is very friendly, patient, and most of all very approachable. He definitely puts the students before him and constantly thinks of what is best for the students. The class schedules are convenient and frequent so students have more choices to work into their schedules. I would highly recommend this school to anyone who is interested in learning karate. read more

Excellent teacher. He really cares about the kids. I recommend this as the best studio in Round Rock.

About when I was old enough to talk and walk clearly, I wanted to do karate. My parents looked and looked for a long time. One day, we were driving to Austin, and I saw a huge sign on a building way in the corner that said "Karate". "Mom! Mom! Look! A karate place!" I yelled. The next day, we went back to take a look. Wonderful place. Even sitting out of all the fun and I wanted to join. It was a great learning environment, and I felt as if I already knew karate! The instructor is friendly and funny, outgoing you could say too. He has helpers on the side just like him that make the school better. I have been doing this for a couple of years now, and I feel more confident that if i am in danger, I can protect myself and get out of harm's way. Some people i know say I've gotten more mature, much more. I cannot imagine what my life would be like today if i had not got to Round Rock Karate Academy read more

My son started off in Round Rock Karate Academy's Little Dragon program just over a year ago. He immediately gained so much confidence, he was able to participate in a competition and loved it. I can't emphasize enough how great this program is for teaching body control, strength and discipline. My son (now seven) just moved up to the youth program. I have enjoyed seeing him continue to thrive under Master Delenela's leadership. He is truly gifted with the kids - from the Little Dragons up to the advanced students. read more

Master Danela is a fantastic teacher, and he has surrounded himself with incredible staff. Other students show tremendous respect and camaraderie for one other. I believe that joining this dojo has been one of those "pivotal" points in my son's life, and I'm very proud of the growth I've seen in him since joining. The self-discipline, determination, and passion for martial arts has spilled over into other parts of his life. Its a good thing, and worth every penny. read more

By far, this is the absolute #1 Place to introduce your child to Martial Arts!. From the moment we step into the studio, everyone was so welcoming. Mr. Delenela goes above and beyond in every way: We had a meeting with him, he asked why we wanted to bring our child to RRKA and also wanted our 6 year old to speak with him. Bullying is no joke, and He made it very clear that she was going to teach her how to defend herself. We have been taking her for a couple of months, and she is loving it! He makes classes so much fun while teaching these little ones principals such as respect, love for family, and a sense of urgency to help others. His prices are very affordable, and the way he conducts business is impecable! I am very appreciative for having him so close by. I definitely recomend this honorable accademy!! read more

Master Daniel Delenela is one of the best teachers of any sport or discipline I have ever met. He teaches character building as much as karate. Going into the Round Rock Karate Academy, we didn't have any background in karate. However, now my son and my whole family have learned so much about karate from Daniel and his great team. read more