My son has been attending Vanbelle's academy for over 2 months. We signed him up for the year because he enjoys it so much! You can choose to come twice a week or 3 times a week (there is also a variety of plans for more classes). They have classes Monday through Friday at this location. For the little guys classes start around 400pm and for kids 5 and up, (also depending on their belt) starts at 5 and other classes start after that. My son learns so much each time he goes. He learns to work with others, take ownership of his learning not just in karate class but at school and home. The instructors are very friendly and knowledgeable. There are several students in the class and the instructors take their time to work with each one of them when they're struggling or learning a new move/ strategy. Students also get awarded for their behavior at school and at tasks/ behavior at home. Soon my son will test for a belt and he's so excited! I look forward to seeing my sons continued growth and dedication in this class. I am so glad I signed him up. (: read more

This is a family owned business. The mother and son duo are very personable and experienced in various children's personalities. My kiddo that I nanny goes here and they are very nice to her even on days when she's really upset. She is deaf and master Vanbell lets her teach the class she's in how to sign their opening and closing pledge. You won't find a place better. They are very dedicated to their students. read more

Continues to fraudulently charge my credit card after having cancelled service months ago. They seem incredibly clueless about how any of their billing systems actually work. read more

My kid loves this place as do I. The Master will not sugar coat and demand respect and respect will be given. If your kid is soft take them somewhere else. Firm but fair. read more

This is a high-quality facility designed to teach Karate, self-control, and discipline to all ages. Mr. Vanbelle and his mother, Ms. Vanbelle have a well-designed curriculum that encourages control, focus, and excellence. Initially, we were having trouble with our little guy - only 5 - who started Kindergarten and was having issues with self-control. We started the "Tigers Program," and within a month of lessons, he was staying out of trouble able to control his impulsive nature. Mom and I credit VanBelle's ATA with helping our guy get some energy out, find his focus, and channel all of that towards something positive. Each month they work a theme, such as goals or respect. It becomes a chant at the opening of each class. This reinforces those ideals you want your child to acquire! He has added the weapons class, and can't wait to try the sparring classes. Give them a try and you won't be disappointed! read more

My son enjoys going to classes here, especially on sparring days, however, the classes can get overcrowded at times. The instructors are very competent, but they seem overwhelmed when there are too many students. My son enjoys it regardless, which is all the motivation I need to continue having him attend. read more

VanBelle's Black Belt Academy - Martial Arts Near Me - Modesto, California

My kids love this place. That's the most important part of the review. It's safe...family friendly...and instructors want their students to succeed. Sometimes it is too crowded...this is true. My kids do much better with the two primary instructors (which is most of the time) and the personal attention of instructors to students is what matters so much to me. Students range in age from adults to young kids. It isn't cheap (not a comparison statement...just a reality). We chose this place because it came so highly recommended from friends. That was enough for me. When we stop attending, it will be due to cost or the insanity of the family calendar...not overall satisfaction. -$59 for first week and uniform (promo) -$75/month per student (1-year contract...attending 2x per week) -$50-60/testing cycle per student (about every 10 weeks) -$??? for equipment beyond yellow belt (usually by 6-7 months in if you keep up) -black belt club and/or leadership cost extra read more

I started bringing my son here and wish I would have done it sooner. My son loves it. The instructors make all the children feel important. Mr. Vanbelle is an awesome instructor and interacts well with all the children. The class teaches restraint, respect, discipline, turn taking and focus. Pretty much what my 3yr old needs. I tried this place based on a recommendation, fortunately you can try before you buy. read more

My son has been going here for almost a year. The instructors are great and make all the kids feel important. The classes can get large at times but even then they work with each kid to improve their forms. I love VanBelles and my son has learned so much from them. read more

I love this place. I have been taking my son for a couple of months now and the staff is amazing. We started my son at the age of three and were not sure how he would do. My son loves the program and is having so much fun while also learning a lot. We have really enjoyed watching him grow with this program. read more

My son enjoyed his time at Vanbelle's ATA as long as Ms. Vanbelle was not the one teaching. When Mr. Vanbelle is not in charge of the class the kids do not listen and Ms. Vanbelle is very overwhelmed. It actually got to the point where my son asked to not attend classes when she was teaching. In addition as others on here have mentioned they will continue to charge you after you turn in your 30 day notice. I was told that I did not give a full 30 days and needed to pay for 6 weeks of classes that I would not be attending. I told them that is a bad way to run a business. Sign up at your own risk. I have heard good things about the other ATA academies but I would avoid Vanbelle's in Modesto or Patterson. read more