1) The office staff is unorganized and dishonest. They are nothing short of street hustlers. When I joined they told me I have to pay $198. And some change for the black belt commitment. My cousin brought me to the school and she had 3 family members doing black belt commitment for $200. This made me feel cheated and I felt funny about Mrs Ariane. I really wanted to get healthy and work out with my cousin so I ignored it. As more students came in because of groupon and joined the prices went up dramatically for the new people. 2) The school is badly constructed. I stepped on a nail or staple that hold Dow the rugs. I was bleeding I told Mrs. Ariane she didn't fix it and acted fake when I told her I was in pain. The mats slip and slide and people hurt their feet all the time. The school is overloaded with students the children and adults don't have enough space to put their equipment away. 3) They have instructors working for free. They only care about saving money and earning money. Students are just cash not people to them. The way they recruit students is almost like a pyramid scam. They won't tell you the prices over the phone. They make u come in for a free class and then they present their scam to you. They are so nice when they are getting you to sign that contract. They fired one of the best female instructors over an extremely inappropriate personal reason. Not to mention the instructor was being used with no pay. I'm paying $400. Since I switched to a family plan I want a safe, non drama, honest, professional school. They have teens instructing adult classes. I want a mature, experienced instructor teaching me. Not children who are being exploited most likely with no pay. 3) my doctor wrote a note saying I cannot continue physical activities and MrsAriane lied to my face and told me that the billing company runs the school and decides what happens. She basically said she doesn't wanna. E bothered w/ billing problems because they are the boss. Billing told me I still had to pay and that at the end of my contract they will give me back the months. Of the government and courts have to honor a doctors note who the heck does Mrs. Ariane think she is. It's illegal to ignore a doctors note. I wonder what kind of lies they will come up with when the Department of labor shows up to check on why people r working for free. 4) The SMA billing stole 734.80 put of my bank account and refuse to return it even tho I have emails from them saying I was goin to get it deposited in my account. That was my rent money. Then to make it worse they took 2 more payment the same week!! 5) SMA try to brain wash students to recruit students for them. Your a business hire you're own people to do that for you. Buy space In a magazine.they told the students they want 700 plus students. They said the school is doing so well their son is in a private school and if they get the students support they can buy a house an the new building they need to be able to facilitate more students. They change the schedule for their convenience. Not caring how it affects the students. If you don't believe me go in and see for UR self and wait for their pitch about prices. I suggest anyone looking into this school, RUN!! read more

If you value your hard earned money then don't waste it on this place. The lack of caring on the owners part shows in every way. 1 - the building is falling apart, bathrooms are constantly out of order, air conditioning is hit or miss in the summer, and there is water damage (mold!). There have been some recent renovations but it isn't even close to enough. 2- you order SAFETY equipment for your child, pay it 100% up front and then it takes MONTHS to get it. Your child will be out there sparring without their head gear while you ask every single day when the equipment is coming in. You get the same answer every time. Oh it's at the Rahway facility but we don't know when it will be brought up here. Again lack of caring!! 3 - Don't even think about signing a contract because you will literally need to give up a spleen to get out of it. Even if you are completely dissatisfied with the service provided don't think they will actually sit down and listen to your complaints or reasons for wanting to leave, nope you just get threatened with legal action and that contract you signed, even if you aren't getting what you are paying for. 4 - There is no separation between the karate classes for the kids and the kickboxing for the adults. There is different music blaring on both sides and there you are sitting in the middle (if you were lucky enough to actually get one of the chairs). The kickboxing is for adults so sometime the lyrics of the music being played are questionable for little ears. I don't know how the children are expected to listen to their instructors with that much going on. 5 - Let's talk about seating. Do you like to sit on the floor? Well get used to it because there is NEVER enough seating for the parents. 6 - Let's talk belt promotion. Oh you want to see your child getting their next belt? Of course, we are so proud of them. Well get ready to fork over some more money than you are already putting in their pockets because you get charged a spectator fee to go watch your child get belt promoted. Are you starting to get the feeling that it's all about how much money the owners can get into their pockets?? Well you would be correct. 7 - Ok here we go, your child is so excited about a tournament. What a joke!!! The tournaments are against the other schools that they own, it's at a facility they own so why are they charging you again to be a spectator and charging you an arm and a leg to participate in every single event?? You will easily drop HUNDREDS on a tournament that in the long run doesn't mean anything in the karate world because it's not against outside schools. read more

This school is a money pit. Let me start with the positives. The kids that work their for free are so sweet and polite. Negative: they are being exploited for free labor . The bathrooms are gross even after they use bleach to clean up. They use young students to clean up after them. They ask for donations for the new school they want to buy. They ask students to do recruiting for them while bragging of how because so many students joined after groupon, their so. Is in private school and they are buying a house. They are a business they should hire employees to clean and organize while the office staff stays in the office and the instructors stay with the students. This school is badly constructed. It overwhelmingly crowded. I hurt my knee and ankle because of the matts sliding all over the place. It's so crowded that when their is one class coming and the other going, parents and students have there street shoes all over the Matt where are faces go. And they don't clean up in between every class.. They need to get space in a magazine or pay for a tv commercial . The students are paying 400$ why should they be recruiting and cleaning. We are. Paying to learn martial arts. Also they barely teach Krav Maga. They mess up the schedule. They withdrew 400$ after I already switched it to another credit card account Mrs Ariane was line oops I put it in late and didn't even reinburst me my overdraft. They are totally under staffed and don't have room for the 800 people they plan on recruiting before they even move to a new location. The Shihan smells like body odor and fish. It's because he has no chance to clean up because they don't have a full staff. I have a procedure being done because of my knee injury I got at the karate school a doctor said I cannot go back and wanted me to keep paying. No I quit. I'm hiring an attorney and I am going to sue this school. Don't join this school check the better business bureau B4 joining any school. Yelp, Angie's list, ect.... Most of these schools just want UR money. read more

let me first start by saying before i even enter or sign up for Soverign i researched other martail arts location and vice versa and there would some nice decent place but very pricey and only teached very limited styles of fighting or were not very flexible especially for a person with a busy lifestyle and working all the time . I was a man who played and coach sports all my life but due to working and life struggles became very inactive. i even try long distance running for a while but i felt i needed more so one day i went and found out more about Soverign martail arts. I loved it from day one. What i loved was the fact that at first even though i have no martial arts experience i was not really interested too much in kickiboxing but more of better self defense technique such as krav maga since i really not much of a kicker. The great thing about class was you will get a good work out and sweat. Parts of your body that you never work on will develop with fitness and time. In just a few days of classes i have grown and already confident about my abilities even with learning just a lil bit about krav maga. you will be testesd with time on whichever style or technique you will be interested to learn. there are belt promotions too. But the cool part is you get an open mind to other styles as well which would help become a more well rounded individual. Its important your attendance as everytime you miss becomes crucial to learning. You have students from all ages ,cultures ,men women that share diferent experiences and careers or life struggles that all come together as a great family and help each other to be better. it doesnt matter how unfit or fit you are if you have the will and desire to be the better but also have fun with a positive attitude while doing it with this great group then this is the place for you. The school has grown alot over time with much more fans and students it will continue to grow due to its great teachers and staff read more

As someone who is not athletic in the least and has never had a steady workout routine, SMA has opened a whole new world for me. I was beyond nervous to sign up, but was immediately put at ease. The staff is wonderful and supportive. From the first day I have been greeted by name. They make it a priority to know all their clients. They all operate from a positive place, encouraging you to do your best and cheering on your accomplishments. Everyone is treated as an individual and they meet you where you are at - if you are a beginner they understand that you need time to get accustomed. I have never been made to feel stupid or defeated. I am learning every time I go to class and while I know I have a ways to go, I so appreciate the confidence they have in me. In addition to my experience in kickboxing classes, I would be remiss if I did not mention the way they reach out to children and teenagers. I am impressed by the staff's ability to work with kids of all ages. The classes for the little ones are so fun to watch. But what I think impresses me the most is the way they work with the teenagers in the program. The students are taught discipline during their classes and they carry that with them when they assist with the younger children. I am amazed at how professionally the teens handle the little kids. These skills are not easy and it is apparent that they (the teens) model themselves after the Sensei and other staff. SMA has given them a solid foundation. When these kids could easily be out on the streets, they are willingly spending their time after school working at SMA. That speaks volumes about the staff's ability to connect with their students. SMA has such a wonderful philosophy regarding their purpose in the community. Sensei Edgardo and Ms. Ariane have created such a positive atmosphere. I love being a part of the SMA community! read more

I have been going to SMA Belleville since June 2012. Since then I have lost about 35 pounds. I take kIckboxing, karate and Krav Maga about 4 times a week. My two boys who Are 4 and 8 also take karate classes at SMA. I have never felt better about myself. My kids are always excited to go to classes. The instructors are awesome and the atmosphere is very family oriented. The classes are enjoyable and fun!! They take the time to actually text you to see if your ok if you miss a class. I have met some GREAT friends there and I have also introduced my best friends to the school and they love it. Since June I have developed self confidence..I am a stronger person...and I learned how to defend myself. My kids are more sociable and learned to respect others. They have also excelled in school because SMA cares about kids education. I am happy to be part of the SMA family and would recommend the school to everyone who wants to get fit and meet some awesome friends along the way!! read more

Juan de Jesus1 day ago I can honestly say SMA Belleville n.j. has been the best investment i've done for my personal health. When i started kickboxing classes at SMA i was 288lbs, weak, sickly and was begining to have problems with high blood pressure. In 11 months i've been able to drop 97lbs pounds and my blood pressure problem completely disappeared. i learned how to manage my weight by eating properly and taking kickboxing classes 2 to 5 days a week. When i first started training i couldn't do 1 push up now i take 2 classes in 1 day, i have energy, stamina and i haven't felt or looked this good in over 20years. Taking kickboxing classes at SMA belleville helped me drop unwanted weight, look fantastic in my cloths, and get my confidence back. Ever since i started training at SMA I feel like i have a new lease on life and i'm going be able to be around to watch my baby girl grow up. Thanks SMA Belleville for helping me become the new and improve me. read more

I signed up for a class with this company, initially excited about the premise. However, the experience quickly turned into an overwhelming and frustrating ordeal. Despite the class being months away, they inundated me with calls, emails, and texts--sending no less than 10 messages in a short span. Even after I expressed my preference to handle paperwork closer to the class date, they ignored my request and continued their relentless pursuit. Their constant pestering felt desperate and unprofessional, leaving me feeling harassed and annoyed. When I finally asked them to cancel, they claimed they couldn't locate my address, which is absurd given their excessive communications. This company's behavior demonstrates a lack of organization and respect for their customers' time. I cannot recommend them and strongly advise others to consider a more professional vendor that values customer boundaries. read more

Make up your own mind. What's free with membership: danger. What's charged: kicking and punching to make sure your kid gets hurt, false sense of self-security, and fun, lots of it. If your kid gets bullied at school, bring him here to get bullied by a pad or a punching bag. If your kid believes he can stand up to the bully, oh boy! The bully will laugh as the kid breaks his little fingers, or toes. And best of all you are in a contract and paying for all this, pay $1900 in advance for one year of torture to your beautiful child. The worst is the cult leader, he knows what he is doing. He trained his family very well in martial arts. They are skillful in the art. But don't be fooled that is not for you. Your child will learn that life is hell. You will yell "yelp me please!". read more

I'm a blackbelt who trained at this school and had my 2 kids attending. This was a great place to train, but head instructor and all assistant instructors were forced out by new more business minded owner. I stayed for some time after the transition in hopes I could still train. Same name but not the same school unfortunately it took a devastating turn for the worst. Very disrespectful attitudes, no way I could have my kids attend with a good Conscience. They over charged my credit card for several months and never corrected the charge to just name a few. Too many great schools with wonderful instructors within 5 min. Some good options I could vouch for include; Invictus in Clifton, kokusai and Elite in Bloomfield and rare breed in Belleville all preferred alternatives. read more

SMA has played an integral part in my sons ability to focus, have respect and discipline. They're not just teaching him self defense, they are teaching him key values that he can take with him out in the real world. It's nice to know that the things I teach my son at home are being reiterated in the Dojo. Sensei Edgardo, his wife and their amazing team are very kind and respectful. They make me feel like I can turn to them for anything and they have become an extension of my family. They are a blessing and in return, they too, will receive many blessings. I am forever grateful and highly recommend SMA if you are looking for warm and friendly atmosphere with a knowledgable team. read more

I've always liked to work out but I didn't realize how much to push myself until I started kickboxing at SMA Belleville. EVERYONE motivates you and helps you to push yourself beyond what you "think" you can do. I've been going there since summer 2012 and I'm in the best shape of my life. Now, when I do my other workouts, I really know how to push myself. This place is super popular so expect a lot of people. In a perfect world, I'd like the classes to be just a few people, but because SMA is so great, the classes are packed! Thanks SMA for getting me to the next level of fitness and motivating me to keep going!!! read more

SMA is one of the greatest places that I've ever stumbed upon. It's not just a place to get in, do your workout, and get out. You go in, get greeted like you're family, then get your butt kicked in an awesome workout! Not only do you get an awesome workout, but you definitely build relationships with people and that's just adding more reason to go back! GREAT MOTIVATION ALL AROUND!! Speaking as a student, it's an amazing place to be! Speaking as a fitness instructor, it's still an amazing place to be!! read more

My daughter is 6 soon to be 7. I felt that she needed some extra activities besides school. I looked into several school found this to be perfect fit for my child. The instructors are Young but great. Their attention and focus on the kids is outstanding. Since my daughter began the classes at SMA I've noticed that she has improved not only at home but in school as well. To me that was important. I appreciate the school and I highly recommend them Al read more

Since the day we walked in the door of SMA we have been treated like family. The owners of the SMA schools are caring and compassionate about the students and the martial arts. They greet each student by name and shake each parents hand every time they walk in the door. We are very proud members of SMA. They push the students to be the best that they can be... and because of that my daughter is thriving in the martial arts. SMA all the way!!!! read more

I started kickboxing three years ago as a way to lose weight. In the process of losing 40 pounds, I found a love for exercise. I have been taught to challenge myself and push past my preconceived notions of what I can do. SMA has helped me grown physically and mentally. The staff are excellent motivators and coaches. They help you push through a workout. I have recommended many people to SMA because the classes they offer are excellent. read more

This is the best place for fitness!! Being overweight and a mother of three I felt that this was way over my head! I was completely wrong!! This has been the best thing I have ever done for myself! I love the staff and people that attend! Everyone encourages each other and you are guaranteed to get what you pay for!! Every time I go there I feel like I'm with family!! I can't say enough about this place! I love, love, love it!!!! read more

If you choose this School good lock the Way he runs the school is very unethical when he gets a chance he will shift you & he's also a Shylock that's the reason I left there a Long time ago I have been with him since when he was on Union Ave Belleville & when he moved to The corner of Greylock Parkway and Union Ave that's he did that to me that's the reason why I left a former instructor of that school read more

I enjoy the kickboxing classes that SMA offer! The Sensei's and other staff are motivating and encouraging. It does not matter how "out of shape" you think you may be, the instructors are always pushing you do meet your potential. They go out of their way to say hello and to make sure you are okay before, during, and after your workout. I would recommend this place to other people for sure. read more