Our 6-year old son has attended since May 2020 and we have seen his confidence spike because of karate lessons here at Sandoval! The instructors are knowledgeable, patient, and friendly and they create a positive environment. read more

I had such a great time during my first class that I ended up signing up! I would definitely recommend trying them out if you are interested in self defense or just to learn a bit more about karate. read more

My daughter really enjoys her Karate classes. They seem to have a solid program, she is definitely improving her skills and her endurance. The way the billing works is a little inconvenient, but not really a problem for us. Overall I would recommend them. read more

My son has developed a pretty impressive jab and right cross ever since he started here. There's good emphasis on form, as well as promoting discipline and respect. My son looks forward to the karate classes, and I've seen an improvement in his confidence. Aside from the karate, there's also calisthenics in each class, so the kids get to burn off some of their seemingly unlimited energy. read more

Love love love this place and so does my son! The owner and instructors are respectful, fun and knowledgeable. Kayleigh is the best! She is always available to answer questions, she knows all the families and kids names and she always has a smile on her face. If you are looking for a place for your child to make friends, learn karate and leadership skills this is the place to go! read more

This place is a racquet. The instructions lure you in with a free class then they pressure you to sign up long term. They decided to close for a week and change locations (no big deal) but they require a 30 day notice or they charge you a full 6 months dues!!!! I attempted to cancel when they finally reopened but was told it was only 28 days notice and I would be charged over $700!!! Had they not closed their doors for a week, i would of been able to provide 30 day notice! I called to explain and received nothing but lip service from the 19 year old they have handling their billing. I don't understand how a company can be in business using such deceptive sales practices. The dojo preaches values, morals, and discipline yet they do not apply any of this to their business. Please don't make the same mistake I did and trust these criminals read more

We love all of the instructors! They are all so patient and good with the kids. Def recommended!

I had a gentleman come to my house and give me a little information about classes, took my info and left a flyer. A couple of days later I got a phone call and received more information and an offer for a trial class (virtually due to quarantine) or a free class upon AZ state opening up. We came to the first in person class and everyone was so welcoming. My daughter started class and loved it! She is so excited to start Karate and talks about it all the time. If you're interested in a place for your kiddo(s) to learn self discipline, self defense and having fun this is the place to go!! read more

I enrolled my daughter a couple months ago and she has absolutely loved it! All the instructors are amazing they always give amazing classes Definitely happy I enrolled my daughter! read more

We have been taking our son to karate here for a little less than a year and he has really grown in character! He is learning so much from them and they really find time to teach correct technique! We couldn't be happier! read more

In love the atmosphere here at Sandoval Karate. Everyone here are so friendly. I like the fact that the instructors take their time to make sure you are doing the form correctly. It's more attention to detail in every s step of what you do than other places I have been to in the past and very reasonable priced! read more

Beware before you commit. These people only want money. We had signed up with them and then shortly after my son was diagnosed with a physical illness and was not able to partake in such a physical activity. We had his Doctor write a letter to them and they didn't care. They would not terminate the contract early as they only wanted their money. One would think they would have the understanding of a child not able to participate in a sport and make an exception, but they did not. Think before you sign!!! God forbid something happen to your child because they will not think twice about taking your situation into consideration. They are money hungry and will pressure you into contract and not look back.. read more

My son has been coming to SFK for 3 years, and has learned so much in those 3 years! His self confidence, respect for others, and discipline continue to amaze me every day. Every one of his instructors has been wonderful-Mr. Sandoval, Mr. Garrett, Mr. Brecino-to name a few! I have absolute trust in his instruction and I am so happy that my son loves to do something that will help him in every part of his life. I too have seen the posts regarding the contracts. I will say that signing up for a certain amount of classes during a period of time is pretty standard, no matter where you go or what you do. And SFK is very up front and honest-you sign a contract with all of the details very clearly listed. They have sent me letters each and every time one of my son's classes is up for renewal at least 2 months prior to the end of the contract period, which is a courtesy, in my opinion. They don't have to send a letter-we are all adults and should be able to balance our own check books at the end of the day. If YOU signed up for this, you should know the details of the contract that YOU signed, period. And as for the move to a new location in Gilbert, I lived very close to the previous studio and it was super convenient, but the new studio is only about 8 minutes (5 when traffic isn't bad) directly east from the old location-I clock this every time I leave my house. I think the new studio is much nicer for the students and allows more floor area for them to practice. I have also never had an issue finding a seat, whether at the old or new studios. As for the negative reviews, I'm sad to see people be so angry and resentful, but no matter where you go you will find unhappy people. I find that more people are willing to complain than they are to talk about the good things. I personally can't say enough good things about SFK and the effect it has had on my son. I hope that other parents will see how wonderful SFK and all of the instructors are as well! read more

They have been so great to us and the instructors are great with the kids. Looking forward to continuing with them.

Just started my girls here for Karate, was recommended by a friend. So far has been so great, very welcoming and efficient. Looking forward to working with them! read more

The building is small and laid out horribly, very overcrowded during and in between classes someone is definitely going to get hurt in that building. read more

What an awesome place! They are not only teaching the kids karate fundamentals, but also respect and endurance. The kids are having a blast while they learn. read more

TAKE HEED AND READ THE BAD REVIEWS, THEY ARE THE MOST ACCURATE DESCRIPTIONS OF THIS PLACE. In a recent phone call, the owner Allen, just screamed at me over the phone, wouldn't let me talk and just blabbed over me immaturely, all after taking 3 full days to return my call. It was like talking to a adolescent high school kid. They insist they are integral and honest but they really just want your $$. Let me repeat, THEY JUST WANT YOUR MONEY. They don't care for the kids, at all, they don't even know who my kid is and he's been there a year. They don't give special attention to struggling kids. They just discipline them for "not listening" by not letting them play a game at the end of class, which usually makes the kids cry (3-4 yo). They don't check up on the kids when they haven't shown up to class for weeks or even months. But they definitely happily charge your card every two weeks on the day. They belittled my wife through email messages when she pleaded for help!! Their "contract" is just ridiculous and you can't cancel. It's like signing in blood. Lawyers are certainly getting involved in our situation. We have been going to Sandoval for about a year. Our son was 3 and is currently 4. They are definitely not patient with the younger kids. Allen the owner, has angrily screamed at my kid in the middle of a class. Unacceptable and embarrassing and I wasn't ok with it, but said nothing, it was early on. Time passes (7 months) and no mention of my kid getting a belt. All other kids in his age group were. Very discouraging for him. Well one day, the owner, Allen knocks on our front door and offers a special sign up "deal". My wife and kids answer the door and my wife kindly says we already went there. He didn't even recognize my kid. Then, of course, following wee we get a little home call, "hey your kid is ready to test for his belt!" Cmon. These people don't care about your kid. Or your kid learning discipline. They also don't talk to any of the parents. Ever. I have literally never talked to anyone when in there, they just close up their glass office and shut the door and window so no one can bother them. Very unfriendly. Oh, wait unless they need money, that's the only time they come out of the office. They just want to cheat you out of your hard earned money and throw you under the bus when you ask for help. For a "small family owned" business, that is really, really disappointing. Don't even think about Sandoval. read more

My daughter has been attending classes at this dojo for almost 2 years. She has learned more than just the martial art of karate itself. She seems more confident and happier in finding her character through these classes. I am proud to say that she's a natural and is already at the green belt level and wants to keep going. The friendliness of the staff and owner has made her journey fun and stress free even with her neurological condition. Also, both my nephews and some of my daughters friends attend this dojo so it is a great family and social oriented place to feel good about being strong and healthy. I highly recommend this dojo and commend the owner and his respectful and accommodating instructors in their commitment to the kids with their ever challenging yet fun filled program. read more

Our 6 year old son started with Sandoval Karate a couple months ago and he is loving it! He has asd & adhd and this has been a very positive way for him to get exercise and learn discipline doing something he loves. Great team/instructors, highly recommend! read more

Nice, clean facility. Instructors are knowledgeable and patient. My kiddo isn't the best at following instructions but I see the patience and my kid doesn't feel pressure. She's excited to come here. read more

We love this karate studio! My daughter has been taking classes for about 6 months and absolutely loves it! I love that there are always several student teachers walking around each class, to help the kids individually, to help their form and help them with any corrections. They teach the kids respect and to have fun! All the staff is fantastic. I highly recommend this place read more

I've been coming here for over a year. As a martial arts student with over 15 years practicing, I can honestly say this is one of the best training experiences I've had. The staff is super helpful and friendly, the instructors definitely know their stuff and know how to teach it in a way that makes it stick. I saw some negative reviews on her about their payment plans, and not being able to break the contract... guess what, IT'S A CONTRACT! They tell you UP FRONT and don't hide any of the facts. If you choose to sign up for a 6 month membership, then you're locked in.... it has been my experience though that they are more hen fare when it comes to making sure you get your monies worth... I travel a lot for work and have missed entire months, they always prorate or work with me to make sure I get all the lessons I paid for. This place is great for kids with tons of kids classes, weapons training, adult classes, competition classes, etc... I highly recommend this place, and I'll definitely keep training here until I get my black belt and even beyond that! read more

My son has gone to Sandoval for over a year but when they abruptly moved locations, we are no longer able to attend since our daughter goes to USA gym next store. We were not given 30 days notice of the move but they demand 30 to cancel. We canceled 28 days instead of the 30 and now are being charged $1,100! They talk about integrity but do not lead by example. Being a small business owner, I tried to reason with them before I took to social media but I stand behind my product and realize customer service is the most important part of business. I am very disappointed with this situation. read more

I have a 3 year old daughter and a 4 year old son in the Little Dragons program. I am consistently impressed by the instructors and the personal and individualized attention they afford to the kids. Both of my kids are high energy jumping beans with a penchant for jumping, climbing, and getting into things, so I figured that the ninja track was the way to go. Mr. Garrett is the main instructor and does a great job leading the class and relating to the kids on their level. It's great to see a line up of 18 kids 5 & under all staring in reverence at an authority figure. If this is a cult, sign me up. The additional black belt instructors all have their own personalities with the kids, some more authoritarian than others, but all clearly genuinely engaged in teaching the kids and seeing them progress. I maintain the 5 stars even though I don't really care for my daughter being addressed as "baby girl" by the only female instructor. I hold out hope it's just because she doesn't recall her name. A ninja called "baby girl" just smacks of that horrible movie Suckerpunch. It's a spendy activity, but worth it. I'm not sure how it ranks against other schools, but I'm willing to pay extra for the level of engagement and interaction that my kids get, and thrive on. On a quest.... to be the best! AYAH! read more

My daughter's been going to Sandoval's for about 6 months now, and we initially began it because they had a good deal going (comparable to the others around) and because we wanted her to have more discipline and also learn defense. I've been taking her 3-4 times a week now since then. All of the instructors are great with all ages, get to know the parents too, and they even offer free weekend birthday parties for the kids. All of these things really made it an extension of family and home. My daughter loves it, began when she was 3 (is now 4), and is eager to go as often as possible. read more

This place is absolutely the best!! My 12 year old daughter has been going here for almost 3 years. I have a lot of friends who have kids in martial arts and they all feel like their place is trying to hustle them for money at every chance they get. That is not the case here!! I know some have expressed concerns on here about canceling, but they chose to do 6 month agreements. You can go month to month if you want. Other than that you only pay for the belt which is standard and is no different than paying for a certification at any training type event. Every instructor here is great!! They know everyone's names, they build the students confidence, they support the parents if they are having challenges at home and I could give countless examples of them truly caring about the students by offering to stay late, come in early, or help if needed. Not a single person there who doesn't truly care about everyone who steps foot in their doors. Come check them out, pay by the month if you want, and see for yourself a great martial arts studio. read more

My rating would be 4.5 if possible. My son (almost 4) has been going here since he was 2.5 years old. He was originally tested by Mr. Sandoval to see if he had the skills to start their Little Dragon's program. After being admitted they did a great job of pushing my son to succeed while still being considerate of his age. All of the instructors have shown a personal interest in my son and taken care to ensure he develops his skills properly. They show infinite patience with young kids while letting them know there are rules that need to be followed and if you fail to do so there are consequences. The only things that stop me from giving a 5 star rating are price and the intimate/smaller setting which gets hot in the summer. I understand these are not tremendous priorities when allowing someone to assist in developing your child, but I feel they are fair to mention. That being said it is worth the money and time that you invest. Your child will benefit from their program. I value anyone who takes an interest in my son and Sandoval Freestyle Karate offers a personal level of service that I feel is second to none. That's my 2 cents. read more

My 4-year-old son is in sandoval karate, it is a very good school, they teach them discipline, maintain themselves. focused and I am very organized I recommend it 100% I am very happy because my son has evolved a lot thanks read more

I can not say enough great things about Sandoval Freestyle Karate! I enrolled my son a little over a year ago (he was 11 at the time). I have noticed him mature so much since he has been going there (school, friends, & home life). He started as a low white belt and is now a blue belt also doing the staff in an additional weapons class they recommended for him. Everyone there makes you feel like family and I admit, I enjoy going since the instructors are hilarious and keep the kids engaged. I commend Mr. Schuller, Mr. Briseno, and Mr. Garrett....they spend a lot of time with the kids. They invest in your child because they want them to succeed in karate and life. I highly recommend enrolling your child or family and you will see why I wrote this wonderful review! read more

We have just started at Sandoval and was impressed with the instructors and focus on the kids. Both girls have joined and are loving it at this point. Having both interested us a win win! read more

Great place for our kids! Fun, relaxed atmosphere where our kids can learn life skills along with physical skills. Would highly recommend to any family! read more

We moved to The Gilbert area recently from Georgia. Our daughter had made progress at her last dojo and didn't want to take a step back going to a new dojo. The coaches and Staff at Sandoval have been awesome! They have been super supportive and encouraging and have progressed her quite quickly based on her skill. We are super happy with our new karate home! read more

My son did a trial class and loved it. We ended up signing him up and we are so excited

Sandoval Freestyle Karate is such a great place for young ones to learn. The team here is so welcoming and our little guy is so excited about his new favorite activity. read more

My son just started his Karate classes in Sandoval studio in Gilbert. His instructor is very friendly and great with kids. All employees in the studio are very friendly, they answered all my questions. We are pleased with this studio and would recommend it to anybody who is looking for Karate classes for their child. read more

My kids have been taking classes here for almost a year, and I don't have a bad thing to say about it. My kids learned a ton, including discipline, focus, and respect. They love each of the instructors - there's not a bad one in the bunch. They're all really great with all the kids. Glad we found this place and recommend checking it out! read more

Very kid friendly classes with a great mix of instruction, life lessons and fun. My daughter is loving it and I love the clean facility with ample seating for parents to watch and helpful staff. read more

This place is so desperate for customers that they came knocking on our door asking us to try them out for a month. Upon going to this establishment, the instruction was ok, and at the end when they were asking us to commit to a plan, we were all ready to pay to continue going, but since we could only come once a week, not twice, the man stood up abruptly and said we couldn't join. We were even prepared to pay the maximum price, but he gave no room for discussion. They said we could still finish out the free month, though. So we went there the next week. We were treated so rudely by the workers, particularly the receptionist, they said my son wasn't a student and couldn't practice there, etc. so we ended up walking out, very disappointed. If this place wants customers, they really need to work on their customer service!! read more

PLEASE BEWARE!! ABSOLUTELY DO NOT SIGN UP WITH THIS COMPANY!! Also, take note they aren't replying to any of these complaints on this page!! 1.The staff is over worked! Way over worked, and it shows! 2. They don't care by any means if you want to quit, even after you have completed your contract. If you do (for some reason) want to sign a contract, make sure you know what you are doing fully to a T!! My child only went into the place a handful of times for 6 months which I paid over $900 for, and because I didn't follow their so called "come in and sign" (I sent an email and did not bring my child for the last 3 months before being charged, this alone should have been a sign of a dissatisfied customer and child) I was sent to claims for $900+!! I would actually still have services for the six months, but nope! I supposedly owe $900 dollars for services I can't get (and MOST DEFIANTLY DO NOT WANT)!! NO ONE EVER CONTACTED ME TO COME IN UNTIL AFTER THEY NEEDED MY 900 DOLLARS TO KEEP THE CONTRACT GOING!! The other 3 months we paid for and never came (cause I paid for 6 months and only went the first three) not one call to see if anything happened or did they care!! Surprisingly they grew a great care when they needed to be paid! 3.If I would have come to these yelp reviews or any of the reviews that I have come a crossed now that I am letting others know how I was treated and feel, I would of NEVER have spent my time or money at this place! 4. No matter what you have to pay for 2 times a week, around $20 a piece. Even if they don't fit. I knew this signing up I but I wish I would have paid more attention to the odd hours and if you move up a belt you are only given certain options. THis is with most activities but I just wanted to put this in there to be aware of. 5. THE SEATING SUCKS! The few times I went they only have seats on a bench and it is VERY cramped! I hope this helps others to make a wiser decision than what I did!!! read more