St Johns Taekwondo

13.0 mi

Years of dedication, discipline, and heart led to this moment…read more.. Our son has earned his black belt at Mettle Family Martial Arts (formerly Coronado's) and is now a member of the Leadership Council. Along the way, he has trained in a program that blends athletic excellence with character development. Through black belt attributes, intentional goal-setting, and a strong growth mindset, he has built not only physical strength, but resilience, focus, and leadership. Now, as a teen, he lives those values. He shows up with discipline, encourages younger students, and leads with both confidence and humility. What makes Mettle special is its commitment to developing the whole person. Children and teens (and adults) are challenged to grow, supported through setbacks, and guided into becoming capable, grounded individuals. We're deeply grateful for the role this community has played in shaping who he is becoming.

We really love how great all of the instructors are with our son. Also, the class schedule is very…read more flexible with evening and weekend classes that are great for working parents!!! Highly recommend both the karate and their new Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program!

Also teaching flips and they incorporate jujitsu

See all

Jerry Williamson Martial Arts School & Supplies

21.9 mi

Mr Williamson is so patient , my son started karate about 2 weeks ago and now it's all he talks…read moreabout. He loves his instructor. We are white belts now.. he is learning the language of karate and beginners moves. My son has ADHD so for Mr Williamson to keep his attention for 45min on Tuesday and Thursday is amazing.. 10/10

Tersak's Family Martial Arts Academy

4.3

(18 reviews)

6.9 mi

We have been with Tersaks for 8 years and love it! Such a family oriented environment.read more

I watched my nephew during his lesson and I found it very entertaining to see how kids can pick up…read moretechniques that I only thought I would see on television. Some kids were funny. Some were serious and others were just there being themselves! Students of all ages were there. Male and female... they had different levels so I felt a person wouldn't feel intimidated or embarrassed for lack of skill. Pretty cool experience in my opinion.

See all

Warrior Krav Maga

(11 reviews)

12.6 mi

This place is pretty cool. Warm environment a good atmosphere for trainers to lock in a block all…read morethe noise from the outside streets. And the entrance way is pretty nice.

Great martial arts, seems like a very capable instructor, so after class the instructor asked me…read moreand another prospective student into his office to discuss pricing. aprox: 50$ per week = 200$ per month give or take a few dollars. don't forget the "sign up fee that ill waive if you sign up now" i said i need to think about it and before i can say im here checking this school out for me and my girlfriend, and we were expecting 300$ for us both "not unreasonable seeing as every other school in the Duval area avg: 100-170$" and i would have to discuss this with her, or which i kept to myself he was the only one who offered classes in the AM that i was only available then for HE SAYS TO ME AND I QUOTE! "Oh! you cant afford it." mind you in front of another prospective student! whilst simultaneously waving his arm towards the door for me to leave, iv soled cars, been a REALTOR,and worked for call centers as sales. never in my life have i said that to a customer he is there to get your money and that is it he could care less about you or your progression which his ONLY IF YOU WANT BELT SYTEM MAKES SENSE NOW its not necessary to test and move forward. listen there are schools here with far better prices with just as if not more capable instructors for less, if you don't need a morning routine choose any other place then this one, if you do need mornings i suggest you check it out make up your own mind about it, its not my place to tell you where to and not to go. THANK YOU FOR READING! PS. Amanda thank you for your help!

The wall in the entrance way

A wall behind the entrance way

See all

The entrance way

Championship Martial Arts

(7 reviews)

22.0 mi

Championship Martial Arts is an excellent Taekwondo school that truly cares about its students. The…read moreinstructors are professional, patient, and motivating, and they do a great job building confidence, discipline, and respect in a positive environment. Classes are well structured and welcoming for all skill levels, whether you're brand new or more experienced. You can really see the emphasis on character, focus, and personal growth. Not just martial arts techniques. Highly recommend Championship Martial Arts for anyone looking for quality Taekwondo training in a supportive and encouraging atmosphere.

Championship Martial Arts has been a fantastic experience for our family. The instructors are…read moreknowledgeable, patient, and truly care about helping students build proper technique, confidence, and discipline. Classes are fun, engaging, and well organized, and the environment is always positive and supportive. My son has loved his time here, and I highly recommend Championship Martial Arts to anyone looking for a high-quality taekwondo school.

Belt promotion

See all

Shobukan Martial Arts Academy

(3 reviews)

9.2 mi

Everything my son loves it he is a orange belt and i am a white belt. The discipline and respect he…read moretaught and learned

This place is a great place. I've gone to a different dojo for 4 years and they have taught me way…read moremore in 4 months!

See all

Karate America

7.2 mi

Instructors that truly care about the kids and a very organized lesson structure everytime. They…read moreteach Tae Kwon Do and each beginner class is about 45-50 min long. Students are praised on how well they do outside of the class as well, and are encouraged to bring notes from their parents and school papers with good grades. Each month they focus on a different goal while they learn their moves. Adults can train here, too, but they train alongside the kids. They have programs where you can earn your black belt in 3 years. The only reason why I didn't keep my son here is that they are a bit out of my budget. Otherwise, they are an excellent karate school.

Me holding the wood board I broke

Me when I got my rec black belt

See all

AFR Christian Karate

(2 reviews)

13.3 mi

Great Christian place for kids to learn karate, but WAY over priced. If you have more than one…read morechild interested, look to spend at least $150 per month per child. Not to include the belts; which you must purchase theirs.

This school is wonderful! This is a true martial arts school. We have many years experience with…read morethe big, box chain karate school in our area. At AFR, it is refreshingly different. We were told up front exactly what the costs would be. No guessing. And the quality of the instruction is more personal, authentic and well rounded. Sensei LeAnn and Sensei Rebecca have done wonders with my timid little girl. Our son is blossoming in self confidence and self discipline. The integrity, professionalism, compassion, authenticity, and Christ-centered learning at AFR Christian Karate is why we chose this Dojo over all the others in the area. A low introductory rate, flashy marketing flyers and a fast lane to a black belt does not make those big box chain karate schools a better deal. Thank you AFR Christian Karate for doing it right, doing it honest and doing it better.

See all

Karate America

3.6

13.9 mi

Excellent training and extracurricular activities. Teachers lead and train hands on. All ages.read more

STAY FAR FAR AWAY!!! Karate America rips people off. My daughter and I were doing classes here…read morebut had to stop for medical reasons. They kept charging my credit card for 6 months. Now they absolutely refuse to refund the money that they stole from us. BEWARE OF THEIR EXTREMELY UNSCRUPULOUS BUSINESS PRACTICES!!!

See all

Ponte Vedra Martial Arts Academy

(6 reviews)

6.3 mi

It's only been about 6 weeks since we have started and I have already noticed a substantial…read moreimprovement with my son not only in is physical abilities but also with his confidence and respect. He looks forward to his Tuesday and Thursday classes every week and is excited and eager to find out what he will be learning next . PVMA is fantastic!

We had been on a very long search for an activity that suited my daughters needs. Then, EUREKA, we…read morefound it! I had many questions, and Master Bill walked me through all of the steps, answers to my questions, and, of course, sage advice. We signed up for the trial, and it was great to learn the basics and get to know the structure and the people. During the trial, it was a great time for my daughter to get acclimated, focus on the routines, and the instructors were amazing! They took time and adjusted their teachings to the students and reinforced with practice it will come together. Each instructor was thoughtful, caring, and patient. Master Clarissa also helped guide me through signing up and talking through some of my daughter's unique needs. Amazing service! Our first beginners class today was wonderful. My daughter joined mid semester, and everyone has been so helpful, welcoming, and supportive! There are so many positives to PVMAA. From the application with easy access videos for practice to the scheduling, to purchasing gear, and overall, the owner and everyone there is so great at communicating and connecting. After my daughter earned her white belt on the way home, she said she was so proud of herself, and it really made her feel good about herself. Those are magic words to any parent. We shopped around, and this one for sure, hands down, was the winner. I would highly recommend it!

Early Elementary School Martial Arts Program

Our First Promotion

See all

Rolls and throws | Martial Arts Training in Ponte Vedra

Landon Park

4.2

(14 reviews)

13.0 mi

This is a cool Little Fork that would be great for kids. It has a great vibe to it as a perfect…read moreplace to just chill for a bit with the family. This is not so much a destination Park, but I am sure it serves this community very well

Great little park. Lots of stuff to climb on, and they have a butterfly garden. No bathroom, but…read moreit's close to San Marco square so you can walk to the shops and restaurants. Tons of shade!

See all

Church of the Good Shepherd Swimming Pool

14.6 mi

Excellent accommodations and service. Available throughout the day and early evening…read more Helpful/wise staff

So happy I signed up recently to swim here! I have an outside pool at home but the water got too…read morecold to use. They have this pool moderately warm 82 degrees or so so I'm able to swim my laps. There is sometimes swim team or lessons going on but they do not use all the lanes so I've been able to swim every time I've gone in my own lane.

My first time there

See all

Brooks Family YMCA

(72 reviews)

6.3 mi

Another YMCA visit during my travels. This one is a concept I prefer more with everything all on…read moreone main floor. The lady that checked me in wasn't so pleasant so that's part of my star bump. Didn't really get that welcome feeling with her when I mentioned I was a Nationwide Member. The locker rooms were easy to access and very cooled down. Men's locker rooms had a middle room for lounging. The towels here are super large (instead of the normal sweat towels). There's one enclosed room with weight machines, and then a larger open room with smith machines, dumbbells, bench, incline, pulley machines, treadmills/ellipticals and a cardio training zone. They also have an outdoor covered astroturf cardio zone. There is a large heated pool, basketball court and separate studio rooms for fitness classes. My only gripe is that front desk lady and the limited benches they have. Otherwise, this is a solid gym option!

I would leave 0 stars but I cannot. This ymca is unsanitary and dirty,they barely wipe down…read moremachines and most of the workers have an attitude especially the African American lady with curly hair she is disrespectful and should not be working there if she treats pepole bad and she kicks people out the basketball court even tho she really has no authority I'm going to start going to la fitness and not this trash hole.

Latin festival- Brooks YMCA (9/2023)

Latin festival- Brooks YMCA (9/2023) "Dona Empanada"

See all

Latin festival- Brooks YMCA (9/2023) "Dona Empanada"

Camp Echockotee

4.8

(4 reviews)

12.4 mi

Scouting is in my blood- I love nature, kids almost always love me & I am not afraid to get dirty!…read moreI am a new volunteer to this council and this was my first time at one of our local camps, located in Orange Park, this camp had to be here long before any of the neighborhoods! Great waterfront access & there is a pool. A climbing tower! I didn't explore too much- there was a leader training I was popping in to show my support for a friend who was teaching the course. She was set up in campsite 8 and unfortunately the campsites need some serious maintenance- poison ivy is overgrown in most of the sites! Fire pits have not been raked and cleaned. In my old council, our Order of the Arrow helped the Camp Rangers every year to clean up and do service around the camps. I have no idea if that is done here, but it needs some tlc. I can't wait to see more of this camp!

I lived next door for years but today was my first experience at the Boy Scout owned facility…read more Founded in the early 1920's the large parcel of land has 8 huge campsites and several halls. It has a sparling blue pool that is next to the beautiful waterfront area and dock. I saw a a chery area and even a climbing wall. The place was well kept up and the restrooms were clean. Great place for fun activities. For the kids and family.

Very well needed for this cold day in January

See all

Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

Hundreds of millions of reviews are posted on Yelp, and our automated recommendation software works in the background to showcase the reviews that it …

16 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Antonio D.

11 years ago

My daughter has been a student since the school started and she loves it. It has been great for developing her self confidence and physical condition at the same time that she learns and develops skills in martial arts and self defense. Classes are intense but lighthearted and you know you had a great workout at the end of it. Master Gaines is a top rated instructor that will take the time to individually teach the details and techniques that come with being the best. In a recent tournament 10 students brought home 8 Gold medals, 7 Silver, and 5 Bronze. When you test for a higher belt, he makes sure you're ready, and when you get that belt you know you earned it...it is not given to you. Today I finally decided to join myself...a decision I should have made a while back. I recommend St. Johns Taekwondo to kids of all ages as well as adults. read more

John H.

10 years ago

I have wrestled my whole life, which led to me moving into Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai later in life. I've been around martial arts, including the MMA world in some fashion since age five, when it came time to putting my children into a program, I didn't want a belt factory where my kids self esteem was primary to their discipline and skill development which would lead to self confidence and pride in an accomplishment that was earned not given to them. After taking the free trials at several places, we finally found Master Gaines and St Johns Taekwondo. I'm fully confident that, after years of being a part of martial arts training that this is where I want my children (2 boys, 1 girl) to developer the life long skills this type of training gives you. read more

Krista D.

11 years ago

My daughter started taekwondo at another school that ultimately closed. We met Master Gaines there and she trained under him for several months. We hunted around for a new school and nothing seemed right. (She said they didn't work her hard enough!) Just when we were getting frustrated, Master Gaines contacted us and said he was starting SJTKD. Hooray! We never looked back. She has been to 2 tournaments with the school and has gained confidence each time. Even better, the kids in the classes are so supportive of each other. They are a group of kids that cheer for each other, encourage each other, and are excited about learning taekwondo. We couldn't ask for a nicer group of students, parents...and of course, instructor! read more

Jack P.

11 years ago

Before my daughter joined St. John's Taekwondo, we had a bad experience with another martial arts instructor and facility. After searching VERY CAREFULLY for a few months, Master Gaines opened up St. John's Taekwondo. My daughter absolutely enjoys every class and especially her fellow students. SJTKD is the right mix of respect, enjoyment, hard work, and training. Master Gaines does not give belts to those who do not work for them.The classes are small enough that every student receives personal attention with technique when they need it. After training here with Master Gaines, my daughter realized that she just doesn't want to practice martial arts, she wants to be a martial artist forever. read more

Michelle C.

10 years ago

This program is helping my son grow in more categories than just Taekwondo. Not only is he gaining confidence in his skills and techniques but also in his focused attention to listening and carrying out exactly what he is told. I appreciate that the students don't "pay" for their belts but are to master a level before moving forward to the next. Master Gaines is a great teacher and it feels like a family with all the participants. And how exciting is it that St. Johns Taekwondo is an official school with the Kukkiwon the (World Taekwondo Headquarters) in Seoul, Korea! I HIGHLY recommend this program! read more

Prash L.

8 years ago

I was struggling to find a good Taekwondo school - the one that teaches Taekwondo with proper focus on students rather than flattering kids and parents only to make sure that the business keeps rolling. Almost 1 year into the St. Johns Taekwondo and I can say that Master Gaines is highly focused on his students that helps kids in learning the skills and mastering into it. Master Gaines ensures that Taekwondo is not just all about kicking but kicking with perfection and full energy. My son has to now work out (in real sense) to earn his belts!! read more

Alia M.

10 years ago

My boys have been training to get their Black Belts since 2012, we recently moved to FL and found Master Gaines Program and we couldn't be any happier. He trains his students with passion and focuses on all the details of technique and correct forms. If you are searching to get the best Martial Arts training and the best skill development, no need to look anywhere else. This is our 3 Master since we had to move twice before and the difference in training is very obvious! Master Gaines at St Johns Taekwondo is the best! read more

Lisa B.

10 years ago

Best place to train! Master Gaines is passionate about teaching and puts his all into what he does. My son has flourished in his class and has learned a lot. The only downside is that the studio recently moved to a location hard for us to travel to and I wish there were more class offerings. However, if you live near or are able to make the drive, it is most definitely worth it! I highly recommend. :) read more

David L.

11 years ago

The last year has been a great experience. The environment is positive and motivating for my son. Master Gaines is great and the class has a wonderful time with him. Safety is always a priority in class and the kids definitely understand how and when to learn their new skills. The tournaments have been lots of fun as well. read more

Laura B.

10 years ago

Great instructor!! Amazing personality with kids and he's has the ability to push them to their limits without their knowing it. He interfuses humor with getting the children to work harder. Best martial arts instructor I have seen with his ability to train young ones!! read more

Don T.

11 years ago

Great studio. My daughter has worked with Master Gaines for several years now and she loves it. Classes are conducted professionally but with a focus on development at all levels. Highly recommended if you are thinking about a Taekwondo studio in the area. read more

Juan L.

10 years ago

Master Gaines is an excellent martial arts instructor, he is always paying attention to everyone in his class to make sure all are doing the right postures and movements, he makes an enjoyable Taek Won Do class. read more

Joe G.

185

8 years ago

We are a true black belt training center. When you receive your black belt with us, you'll be certified all over the world through the Kukkiwon "World Taekwondo Headquarters" in Seoul Korea. That's a big deal! read more

Lisa E.

11 years ago

Master Gaines is phenomenal. As a former softball coach, it is easy to spot when someone is good at coaching children. Master Gaines communicates effectively with the children and instills life skills. read more

Sonia P.

10 years ago

A great Taekwondo instructor, good exercise, knowledge of self-defense, formation of character with values and discipline, while still being a fun class! read more

Maria C H.

10 years ago

Great class and Master Gaines ! My daughter is happy!

St Johns Taekwondo - taekwondo - Updated August 2026

People who viewed St Johns Taekwondo also viewed

Fighting Chance Fitness

This place is awesome, very technical, very welcoming environment and just a great group of people…read moreto train with! I've been to plenty of Jiu Jitsu gyms in my life and this one is absolutely top notch. Highly highly recommend to anyone in the area or visiting, and I will definitely be back!!

I started my BJJ journey at fighting chance about 10 years ago. Great people, great trainers, great…read moreatmosphere. If you want to learn real, technical BJJ you should go here The family who owns the gym is an amazing family. They have always treated me with respect and welcoming arms since I was in high school.

Lion's Den Karate

My son has been going here for a month and change and I'm so grateful for this dojo. Not only have…read morethey help boost his confidence, he's getting some additional physical activity added to his day as well. Sensei Jose & Barbara have done an amazing job creating a family friendly environment for all those looking to learn karate. They also have a day care service, which we haven't used yet, but given how well organized they are with their dojo, I can only assume their day care part of the business is just as efficient. Thank you for letting us be part of the family. =)

I have been bringing my 14 year old daughter here for over 6 months, and I am so happy with how…read moremuch she has learned and grown since she started. Thank you LDK!

UndergrounD Fitness and Self Defense

(3 reviews)

My whole family has been training here for a couple years now and it has been so great for all of…read moreus. Master LaMasters and Master Williams have been extremely accommodating to allow us to train with our kids, and our kids to train together despite being at different age and skill levels. As the parents we've been able to assist the kids in class, but also learn for ourselves different MMA techniques for self defense. And from the kids' perspective, they've gained a ton of confidence in their own strength and abilities. The days we can't make it in person, we're able to attend online so we don't miss any classes. They also offer online only memberships so our family and friends that are not local are able to train with us too! There's so many cool events as well like "ninja nights", aka parents night out, so we can drop the kids off once a month and enjoy a date night or some kid-free self-care. They've also started doing cosmic dojo parties, light saber classes, family game nights and so much more so we can come together as a community and enjoy great company. I highly recommend joining underground fitness! We're not only a community that bonds over wellness and self defense, but we've all become a family that is constantly growing and encouraging each other to be the best we can be!

Great Martial Arts school with amazing instructors! My son and daughter have been training with…read morethem for quite some time. With in person and online classes it is convenient and allows the children to learn and train with ease throughout the week.

Bill Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Association

4.4

(17 reviews)

This gym is a great place if you are looking to start jiujitsu or are a returning student. I came…read morehere after a while of not training and Coach Bill and his wife were super friendly. They allowed me to check out the class and then helped sign up that day! If you're looking for a safe, clean, and experienced jujitsu gym for you or your kids this is the place to be!

Professor Bill and his staff are amazing with our son, we spent a long time searching for an sport…read morethat he could truly enjoy and a nice place where he could learn it, we tried some other places, but honestly nothing compared to Bill Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. We are so happy with the progress our son has made. They are a family owned business, kind, knowledgeable and truly caring for the kids. Don't walk, run to enroll your family, they are great!

Julington Academy of Martial Arts

Just a fantastic martial arts school. I've been going there for 2 years and I can't say enough…read moreabout how Master Bill, and his instructors, run the Dojang for adults and kids. There is plenty of fun, moderate to intense physical training and discipline without being overbearing. Kids are encouraged, but held accountable for their actions. Adults are trained and pushed according to their own level of conditioning. I started off in horrible physical condition, I hadn't worked out in several years, and can see significant improvement in the time I've been there. I looked at other places, and JAMA is a family environment focused on training, not dollars for belts. When you earn your black belt there, you have truly earned it. I have a blast going, it is truly the highlight of my day.

Solid Base Performance Center

ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS PLACE... the family vibe, the young energy, the camaraderie, the professional…read moreinstruction... it's all amazing! I've taken martial arts since I was 12yo, now closing in on my 65th year of life on Earth and although my wife thinks I'm crazy, I'm still training! Maybe not as hard or as often but as a purple belt, I'm still getting my butt kicked enough to keep me humble! My thoughts... if it were easy... everyone would be doing it. Most of my martial arts experience has been stand up, and it wasn't until I had my introduction to Brazilian Jiujitsu that I realized I had no idea what to do if I fell! What an eye-opener! Anyway, I'm old, I'm slow, often have pains, but I'm there! Beats sitting in front of the TV or computer waiting to die! Come on out and give it a try... men, women, &/or children!! Unequivocally recommended!!!

Gracie Jiu Jitsu Baymeadows

4.7

(3 reviews)

I've been going to Gracie Jiu Jitsu for about 3 months now and I've had a wonderful experience…read more Family owned business, trained professionals, friendly welcoming atmosphere. Coach Cliff is awesome! He is very knowledgeable and ensures the students learn proper technique and implement in safe manner. All trainers and coaches are spectacular to work with. If you're thinking about learning self defense I highly recommend Gracie Jiu Jitsu.

Nice and compact lecture with problem solving focus and easy to understand slice. The coaches…read morealways take time to listen and understand the concerns and conceptions of the students. They have proven that they take safety seriously and make an effort to help navigate the techniques. Just so you know too, that sport is tiring more then I anticipated. Overall, good good stuff and staff!

10th Planet Jiu Jitsu Jacksonville

Great atmosphere. I went in while traveling and was met with some kind humans and a great class. I…read morewill continue to visit when in Florida.

Excellent kids coaches that take time to work with the children both individually and as a group…read more Safe, clean and effective training.

Karate America

3.6

Excellent training and extracurricular activities. Teachers lead and train hands on. All ages.read more

Atlantic Warriors Wing Chun Kung Fu