Welch Martial Art Experience

(5 reviews)

5.0 mi

Having taken a long (10-yr) break from martial arts, I got the itch to jump back in and started…read morelooking at many schools inside the perimeter. I was primarily looking for a school that addressed three things that other Atlanta schools can't provide: 1) a diversified experience with multiple disciplines, 2) an actual curriculum that would provide structure to the various lessons, and a path to future belt tests, and 3) some sort of supplemental training that would reinforce what is taught in the dojo. I joined Evolution X and while I have not been a student for very long, it provides all of these things and more: several different martial arts disciplines; a calendar and curriculum that indicates what will be taught, and when (and when it will be repeated in the future); and a super helpful library of online training resources that covers every lesson as you advance through the belts. From a teaching and training perspective, this is a very well-managed school. On top of this, I've found that the other students are helpful and supportive - and respectful of new students (myself included) - making the experience a positive one. Net net: Josh Moree runs a top-notch school for kids and adults alike, and if you are looking to learn about multiple disciplines for comprehensive martial arts training, Evolution X delivers!

Although I do not train regularly at Atlanta Kyusho and Jujitsu, I have had the pleasure to attend…read morea few seminars there. I would love to train regularly with Sensei Moree but live in Roswell so doing the drive regularly would be difficult. I come from a different background in martial arts (Yoshukai), so most of the things I was exposed to during the seminars were new to me. Sensei Moree and the other students were extremely helpful and patient with me. They made me feel very welcome, which is not always the case when visiting different styles of martial arts schools. He is a great teacher and explains techniques very well. AKJ incorporates different styles/disciplines in the training- which I think is excellent. If you are considering starting training in martial arts, I highly recommend AKJ. I am confident in saying you won't regret the decision. Osu!

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SBG Atlanta - Druid Hills

(8 reviews)

5.5 mi

Locally owned & operated

Certified professionals

SBG-Atlanta has something for everyone, from competitors to hobbyists, kids to old guys like myself…read moretrying to keep in shape. Fantastic community of folks from all walks of life that get along great, laugh, joke, then try to strangle each other for fun. I'm 47, and have trained BJJ here since the gym opened early 2022. My 7 y/o son trains in the kids program. And as soon as my daughter turns 6, she'll train here too. The coaches are all top-tier - smart, funny, laid-back and accomplished folks (in BJJ and other careers), and take an interest in every student. And I mean every single one: be it someone preparing for pro BJJ or MMA, or old sedentary professionals like myself in it for fitness, fun, and community (and for my kids). If you're looking for a gym to start training, SBG - a clean, clockwork-run, modern training environment run by experienced and skilled coaches - is it. If you're at another gym where the culture isn't your cup of tea (I can relate), this is the one.

I started Training there and had some directions from my doctor not to continue the jutsjutsi I…read morestarted. They understood and were very polite and did not charge me the cancelation fee

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Shaolin Institute

(6 reviews)

17.9 mi

GENERAL ASSESSMENT Our overall assessment is that Shaolin…read moreInstitute does an amazingly successful job fulfilling its promise as a learning experience for both the body and mind. As we have so far experienced it, Shaolin Institute indeed teaches a "way of life" in which students can experience gratifying physical achievement, whether in Tai Chi or Kung Fu, while also exercising and expanding mindfulness. One of the most appealing aspects of Shaolin Institute is the frequent reference before and after classes regarding how specific cultural, historical, medical, and scientific achievements are directly relevant for learning and appreciating martial arts. TEACHING ASSESSMENT It is impressive that Shaolin Institute exceeds expectations in basically every category used to evaluate teachers. Below are our summaries of Shaolin Institute's multifaceted teaching strengths. CURRICULUM * SI teachers follow the SI curriculum. * SI teachers choose activities for each student relevant to the SI curriculum and each student's level of achievement. * When feasible, SI teachers sometimes helpfully group students together to learn and practice as a group the forms they have previously learned. INSTRUCTION * SI teachers provide direction so that each student knows what to focus on during class. * SI teachers present new forms clearly and logically, and helpfully demonstrate new forms. * SI teachers provide feedback and re-teach forms when necessary. Teachers provide opportunities for students to practice new forms both with and without supervision. MOTIVATION * SI teachers show genuine concern for the students. * SI teachers project a positive, encouraging tone for the classroom experience. * SI teachers establish a level of difficulty, suited for each student's level, which encourages success. SI teachers provide good verbal praise, as well as critique as needed. COMMUNICATION * SI teachers always demonstrate enthusiasm in what they are teaching. * SI teachers explain and demonstrate forms clearly. * SI teachers respond graciously and substantively to questions. EXPECTATIONS * SI teachers communicate expectations to students. * SI teachers listen to students' feedback during class and adjust their teaching pace and content accordingly. * SI teachers encourage students to participate inextracurricular community opportunities, which isimportant for the students' confidence as well as the school's exposure. METHODOLOGY & MATERIALS * SI teachers often vary how they conduct classes, for example by describing the forms, including their origins, applications, etc., and/or by physically demonstrating the forms. Both methods are helpful, especially for students who learn in different ways. * SI teachers sometimes provide supplemental resources, such as video recordings of the classes, which can be exceptionally helpful for students who want to practice at home. EVALUATIVE ACTIVITIES * SI teachers monitor and give feedback on student progressduring each individual class. * SI teachers give oral evaluative comments, as well as sometimes grades or scores. * SI teachers are available for and sometimes proactively create opportunities for one-on-one progress discussions with students. CLASS ENVIRONMENT * SI teachers clearly communicate requirements for attitude and behavior, notably by emphasizing the SI student creed and the rituals of class beginnings and endings. TEACHER-STUDENT INTERACTIONS * SI teachers make an effort to know each student as an individual. * SI teachers routinely work to promote positive self-image in students. * SI teachers routinely create a classroom climate in which students are encouraged to grow and assume personal responsibility for their growth. LEADERSHIP BEHAVIOR * SI teachers are observed routinely cooperating graciously with their teaching peers, demonstrating authentic respect for one another. * SI teachers are often observed sharing ideas and methods with their fellow teachers. * SI teachers are observed regularly seeking to advance their own growth. This continuing education, observed by the students, is motivating to the students and demonstrates how we are all learning and growing.

I went to China with Shivu in 1993. We trained at the Shaolin Temple. He is the real deal. We still…read morestay in touch 30 years later!

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Striker Fight Center

(16 reviews)

22.1 mi

I've been to many gyms in many different towns, and can without a doubt say that SFC is truly the…read morebest gym I've trained at. It's a hidden gem full of great instructors and great students. Also it's one place that really feels like home and has a sense of family, everyone is cool with each other and all support one another; no one is a d-bag or thinks they're better than anyone else. The best instructors in town, a crazy low membership rate, full access, no contracts, KSU discount, awesome people, and an excellent facility make SFC the best choice in the area, period. If you don't believe me, they do a free week pass; go check it out yourself.

Best place to train in Wing Chun, Kali, Muay Thai, MMA, Jiu Jitsu, I've been training for over 30…read moreyears in Martial Arts and this school is amazing, the instructors are great and experienced!

We're here to help you achieve your goals.

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Tree of Life Dojo

(3 reviews)

3.1 mi

I have been training here for a couple of years now. This dojo builds a unique, strong, and…read moreinclusive community of likeminded martial artists. They are now like my second family.

I practiced Cuong Nhu at Sung Ming Shu for 2 years, before I moved. I had been practicing…read moreIshin-Ryu Karate in New York before and wanted to find a Dojo where I could continue training. I wasn't interested in any one particular style, just the chance to continue learning and getting a workout. From day 1, Sung Ming Shu exceeded all my expectations. Not only is the style great, since it combines soft and hard styles (everything from Shotokan to Tai Chi and Aikido), but the people at the dojo and the instructors are just great. What you will find is a very open and welcoming bunch of very down to earth people. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, yet rigorous (it is a martial arts dojo, after all). I've kept in touch with everyone at the dojo after leaving Atlanta almost 2 years ago and I train there every time I'm back visiting. I can truly say that Sung Ming Shu is like family to me. Oh, and the new Dojo is great. They're in Grant Park now. Great location, air conditioning and brand new hardwood floors.

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Chien Hong School Of Kung Fu

4.9

(10 reviews)

7.4 mi

I contacted Shifu Mitchell to perform a dragon dance at my daughter's first birthday. We really…read morewanted something different but exciting for our guests as well as leave a lasting impression - and Chien Hong delivered! There team of 4 (1 drummer, 1 cymbal and 2 dancers) were very professional. They arrived on time and even brought 2 sets of dragons for us to decide between: a vivid blue and a red. Based on their suggestion, we went with the blue since it would probably not frighten the young children and I am so happy, the dragon photographed beautifully! I cannot say enough great things about Shifu Mitchell and his team. They helped make our event so memborable!

I've been training at Chien Hong for a year now and have plans to be there for quite a while. I'm…read moreone of those who gets hopelessly bored at the gym, and elementary gym class flashbacks pretty much prevent me from ever going out for any team sport, ever, so martial arts is one of the few ways I can happily get a workout in. (Funny how the idea of a punch to the gut is way less frightening than the thought of hanging out in a baseball dugout, but apparently someone read way too much into Lord of the Flies as a child.) The school is run by Shi Fu Gary Mitchell, who has been training in kung fu for 20+ years. He offers traditional Hung Gar kung fu (for adults and for kids) as well as Tai Chi Chuan and self-defense, and there will also be a new Wing Chun class this fall. No matter the style, though, Shi Fu tailors the material depending on who is attending and what their level is. So, no two classes are the same: you may see elements of boot camp, shadow boxing, light sparring, etc., or you might focus on particular techniques (hand strikes, blocks, kicks, and so on). There is also a specific curriculum you have to know for your level, so you're always learning new things and finding ways to improve upon what you already know. Shi Fu is undoubtedly devoted to the art, so he has has high expectations for his students and is continually motivating us to give it our all. There's an awesome community at Chien Hong. The training brothers and sisters are super supportive and friendly, and they're always happy to answer questions and help you practice. Also, the school participates and performs in lots of activities around Atlanta--Chinese New Year and parades, notably--so that's pretty darn nifty to show off to your friends and family.

Chien Hong Lion

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Georgia ChungDo Kwan

The most dedicated and focused Tae Kwon Do instructor on the East side of Atlanta!!! Master Eddie…read moreis a no-nonsense teacher in every sense of the word. He is great with very young kids and they listen to him. All belt promotions are earned with hard sweat. One of only few dojos in Atlanta that teaches weapons and flexibility too. We are very grateful we discovered this center. A+++

A wonderful martial arts school where your child won't be given a belt just because you pay for it!…read more The children are taught great core life and moral values with self defense/martial arts.

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Buckhead Jiu-Jitsu

(31 reviews)

3.8 mi

My son did a trial class today and Sam made such an effort to make him feel welcomed. He made…read morelearning a truly fun experience for everyone. My daughter wants to join soon too! Thank you Sam!

Amazing place to train Jiu Jitsu - the culture that Sam has cultivated over the years sets Buckhead…read moreJiu Jitsu apart from other gyms. Sam, and by following his example, the team members at the gym, will support you and help you meet your goals. No matter who you are. For some, it's just a fun way to get in shape. We also have world champions at the gym who will help you and always look out for your safety. Sam is the Coach, but we consider it our gym. Come see us!

Another fun class at Buckhead JJ

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Kids' Class at Buckhead JJ!

Solidcore

4.7

(50 reviews)

2.2 mi

Everyone here is incredibly awesome, welcoming, and friendly. I've never been to a Pilates style…read morestudio that made me feel this comfortable from day one. I've also never had muscle definition like I've developed since going to [solidcore] Midtown. Every single coach brings something unique, so the workouts are never boring or repetitive. Huge kudos to head coach Dani for creating such an encouraging, inclusive environment with a real sense of community. I highly recommend [solidcore] Midtown to anyone looking to get into shape, push their athletic boundaries, and make new friends.

Solidcore has completely changed my workout routine! Every class is challenging, effective, and…read morekeeps me coming back for more. Lyndsay is an incredible instructor, motivating and always pushing you to be your best while helping you maintain proper form. Her positive attitude makes every workout amazing. Highly recommend both Solidcore and Lyndsay!

[solidcore] Midtown giving me all the warm fuzzies by congratulating me on achieving 100 classes!

Ready to go!

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Piedmont Park Aquatic Center

4.1

(24 reviews)

3.0 mi

This is an incredible pool, especially if you have some younger kids to entertain. It's on $5 per…read moreperson to get in so it's a cheap way to spend several hours. They have a small snack bar with things like soda and chips. Except for the swim lanes the whole pool is at most maybe 4 feet deep, it has a small lazy river, a whirlpool area that spins kids around, a zero entry - it's just all great for kids from around 3 to probably 10 or 11. I'm sure older kids will have fun too but it's almost perfect for the younger ones.

one of the jewels inside the "preeminent jewel" of Atlanta, Piedmont Park. the aquatic center is…read morequite well-run and well-kept, particularly given all the events hosted there. one might assume this joint would show wear-and-tear, but you'd be wrong about that! I was super bummed with the attached restaurant closed, but apparently a new food place opened up in its place. I took my rugrats here for the "Splish Splash" event and really enjoyed it.

Our preferred park gate to get to the pool

The front entrance

Many lockers available

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Garden Hills Pool

4.3

(10 reviews)

5.3 mi

My husband swam at Garden Hills Pool back in the 50's/ 60's, then our 2 daughters swam here and now…read moreour 4 grandchildren swim here! Love the trees, the well kept pool and the friendly people. The kids love the snack bar.

Diverse crowd, clean and safe! My son had a ball and made new friends ! The staff and guest were…read morenice

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Vinings School of Art

4.6

(32 reviews)

7.5 mi

It's a great program for kids of all ages. All types of different art they can do. Conveniently…read morelocated off of the East West connector in Vinings. Lots of other shops and restaurants in the area. They also have summer camp and teach music.

I had no idea about this place until a friend gifted my daughter a few classes for Christmas. Our…read morefirst class was great. We reserved a space as a courtesy but I appreciate the drop in option. There are no pressure sale tactics to rope you into buying classes or dates with penalties. It promotes the love of art period. Parents can deop their kid off for a class and everyone is happily discovering their artsy self. The offer language classes and piano lessons as well. The theme is giving and avenue to express creativity with no pressures. I was so pleased to learn they have camps for when schools out as well as host parties. Most of the teachers have been there a while with professional experience and a love of art with patience which promotes creativity at reasonable prices. I'm grateful for their flexibility because when the rain caused a delay it was really good of them to offer my daughter a shared private lesson where she was able to connect with another young person who shared her interests in art. That was really amazing to witness two young people on the same artistic wavelength getting lost in their lesson. My daughter plans to return and we recommend this place to anyone who has a child who loves arts.

Fall Break camps will be Sept 26, 27, 28, 2022

Summer 2023 canvas painting camps www.viningsschoolofart.com/camps.html

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Gift Certificates! Order online or email inquiry@viningsschoolofart.com

Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary

4.8

(82 reviews)

19.6 mi

I know it was a great last-minute Saturday activity. It's very affordable compared to the zoo as…read morechildren under three are free. Highly recommend that you bring a durable stroller that is not an umbrella stroller because 85% to 90% of the trail is paved, however to get to some exhibits, you have to go uphill on gravel and dirt. It's mostly shaded by tree canopies so Ricart if it rains, you'll have a great time. They have several areas for picnics and you can bring your own food highly recommend that you bring your own water as well. The staff and volunteers were very friendly and super helpful throughout the part. It's a big circle so there's really no way to get lost and my kid really loved the bunny petting area. 10 out of 10 definitely would come back.

This place is awesome. I grew up visiting Yellow River Game Ranch and I see the name has been…read moreupdated to Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary. I saw so many impressive improvements since the last time I visited, pre-pandemic. The sanctuary felt very peaceful and it felt like a beautiful walk through a nice park.

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Lullwater Park

(86 reviews)

6.6 mi

What a great place to go for a walk, run, bike ride, fishing or just sitting and relaxing. Great…read morepond in the middle with all sorts of wildlife like turtles, cranes, deer and all sorts of other things. It's behind Emory and the President of tue university's home is in the park. Very. Pretty. Plenty of trials to explore - follow the creek all the way down Houston Mill and Hahn woods. In fact if you're driving Hahn woods is a good place to park as parking is not great anywhere around Lullwater. There is a deck that you can pay to park in at the Emory Clifton campus - that is the closest parking I believe.

Beautiful & relaxing space! Visited twice, & didn't see the restriction sign until I was leaving…read moreafter my second visit. Take care if you "attempt" to visit. It's private property.

The Mansion on park grounds

On the suspension bridge

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Topplin Tots

(6 reviews)

1.6 mi

For my daughter's 1st birthday, I wanted something fun for kids of all ages and also my daughter to…read moreenjoy! It took me a while to find a mobile play lounge that had all the stuff i wanted in a package and was local. Topplin' Tots wasn't local but I did pay a travel fee which was so worth it! I'm so glad we went with them as the set up and take down was so easy, i wasn't involved in any way lol. Interaction with the owner was seamless and pain-free from first interaction to take down which was completed without our involvement. We just left the gate open for access and closed when we realized they left. As someone who loves to be in control of everything, that says a lot! I was busy doing the most minute last stuff and wasn't even home for most of the party but i was able to witness the kiddies and my daughter enjoy the play lounge. The ballpit was a HUGE hit! If you ever book them(which i highly recommend if you can't tell already), definitely get a package with the ball pit or add on as they have that option! FYI: The pictures are of package B/2.

Attended a one year olds birthday party and I must say that I was very fabulous. As I make my way…read morethrough the clubhouse, I see what looks similar to another well known play arena for toddlers. I was immediately floored and impressed at the setup and the ability to have said items traveled. Everything was clean and perfect for little babies to older toddlers. I let my 8.5 month old daughter play in the ball pit and ride (sit on) what was similar to a horse. She loved it. So did it. Very likely I'll rent this for her 1st bday.

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Atlantic Station

My 8.5 month old playing

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Decatur Arts Festival

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Mark W.

11 years ago

As of 2/2016 I have been studying with Sifu Sule Welch for over 6 years and my eldest son has been under his tutelage for about 4 years. We both could not speak more highly of him, his teaching approach, and the training program(s). He is a champion for our well-being and is an excellent role model! Having been around martial arts for many decades it seemed that most schools (especially kids programs) are a cookie cutter type experience and offer a 'fun' environment but they are not fully rounded and fall short on some very important life lessons. They are sometimes more like 'martial art day care'. We were looking for the opposite, which is exactly why we study with Sifu. Sifu also offers a fun environment for all of his programs, however within each he instills wonderful lessons in Personal Growth, both mental and physical: For Adults - Great martial arts and martial philosophy learning in small classes with street and situational application. Physical and mental challenges to keep you young and alert, body conditioning to get you in shape, and of course self-defense protection to help yourself and those around you. For Young Adults and Children - Helps build Focus, Respect, Self-Awareness, Responsibility, Attentiveness, Punctuality, Control, Confidence, etc. He teaches multiple martial arts under one junior program, and each is taught with the Historical and Cultural aspects of those arts. He believes in keeping the classes small so he can devote appropriate attention and he has a few assistant instructors that are wonderful young people and are great with the kids. It is an awesome introduction to other cultures and martial arts that can lead to a life-long learning and growth experience. I highly encourage anyone with an interest in martial arts (or just getting in shape) to call or visit today! read more

L D.

10 years ago

I wanted to take a moment to write a review for what I feel to be the one of the best investments I have ever made. I have been training with the Welch Martial Arts Experience since 2009. My initial draw was the wide variety of arts that was offered which was important to me because having trained in Martial Arts in the past I was looking to focus in an art that would complement my prior training. In 2011 I was involved in accident which resulted in serious injuries which sidelined me for over 2 years. What I learned during that time was I really missed training. What keeps me training at the Welch Martial Arts Experience is the teaching style of Sifu who always seems to cater his lesson plans to each level represented in any given class. In addition to that, I enjoy the fact that each class includes individuals of various skills levels, styles, energies and personalities as training partners. This collection of attributes provides an infinite opportunity to learn from your classmates as well as the instructors. Finally I remain because the class is structured in such a way that it produces a close knit training family. This is a sense of connection that I have never experienced in previous training scenarios. In case I have not made my position clear ;-) if your question is "Should I go check out the Welch Martial Arts Experience", my Answer would be "Absolutely....... Why are you still reading.... Pick up the phone and set up a time to go visit, or even better, just go :-). Well I know this is a bit wordy but I feel that this is the least I could do considering the value of my experience. Besides I believe I have been working on this recommendation for a few months now and if all I came away with was 2 sentences well then that would have just looked bad :-). read more

Wadi E.

2 years ago

I've been training at TWE for over a year now, and it has been an outstanding experience! The instructors are exceptionally skilled and dedicated, offering personalized attention to each student. Their passion for martial art training is evident and truly inspiring. The training environment is supportive and motivating, with a strong emphasis on discipline, respect, and personal growth. The curriculum is well-structured, providing a perfect balance of physical conditioning, technique, and practical self-defense skills. What I appreciate most is the sense of community here. The camaraderie among students and instructors creates a positive and encouraging atmosphere that makes training enjoyable and rewarding. No matter your skill level, you'll find a place here and be able to progress at your own pace. If you're looking to improve your fitness, learn effective self-defense, and be part of a fantastic community, TWE is the perfect choice. Highly recommend! --- read more

Gregory D.

10 years ago

Sifu Welch is an excellent coach and friend; I've trained with him for approximately eight years. Throughout this period, I have developed concepts that will keep me on track with my fitness objectives as well as my training goals pertaining to martial arts. His trainings encompass a variety of different marital arts techniques from Filipino martial arts to elements of American boxing which all falls under the concepts of Jeet Kune Do. The skills I've developed over the years have given me the confidences needed to excel in my personal and professional life. Not to mention, I have the necessary components that would allow me to combat most challenging situations. The Welch Martial Art Experience is a very warm and friendly environment and I love the instructions that Sifu Welch provides after a long and stressful day after the office. Man, I love this place! read more

Christopher S.

11 years ago

The most impressive thing about this place is the owner and teacher, Sifu Sule Welch. Sifu Sule is an incredible human being. He takes time personally caring for each individual student. He makes what we're doing so interesting that the time passes unnoticed. In that time, we put in an incredible workout while learning some of the most beautiful martial arts in the world today. Tai Chi, Capoeira, Kali, Wing Chun and others. I have been a student at the Welch Academy for the past 3 months and I can honestly say that it has been one of the greatest experiences of my life. After a few weeks of becoming a student, I brought my son to meet Sifu Sule and to try a demo class. He too decided to join and has enjoyed the experience very much. Thank you Sifu for all we have learned from you. Dr. Christopher Scoma "Become the change you seek", MG. read more

Rebecca B.

10 years ago

There really aren't enough stars for me to adequately express how life changing The Welch Martial Arts experience has been for me. I met Coach Sule 7 years ago when I weighed over 200 lbs. As a 5'1" female that was nowhere near a healthy weight! Coach Sule taught me how to work out, how to bring out my inner athlete, and how to make exercise a vital part of my everyday life. I am now 100 lbs lighter, I have visible, lean muscles and I know that I never have to go back because of the lessons he taught me. He is a consummate teacher and coach in that he will meet you where you are and work WITH you to bring out your best and help you achieve your goals. I just bought a size 4, fitted dress for my daughter's wedding and I could not have done it without Coach Sule! read more

Leonard A.

10 years ago

I've been involved in martial arts since 1993, and the program at Welch Martial Arts is wonderful dojo in the heart of Sandy Springs. I received my brown belt from Chuong Nhu Karate near Emory and had been looking for a place to practice martial arts near the house for several years that was authentic and that the instructors inspire me to get better. The Welch Martial Arts Dojo is well equipped with heavy bags, speed bags and wing chun dummies and striking pads and finished forgiving wood floor. Sifu Welch teaches all the classes and is an excellent teacher, motivator and expert in martial arts (Kali, Capoeira and Wing Chun). I would highly recommend this dojo, to anyone who would like to just keep in shape or learn to how defend yourself on the street! read more

Sule W.

2 years ago

The variety of martial art training programs offered at The Welch Martial Art Experience make it feel like a martial art university. For example this is the ONLY structured class with weekly classes dedicated to the art and science of Boxe Francaise Savate in the state of Georgia! They also offer, Wing Chun, Filipino Martial Art, Tai Chi, Capoeira, BJJ, and Jun Fan Jeet Kune Do. The diversity of people, high quality instruction and professional facility make it feel like a safe place to grow, learn and challenge yourself to be and do your best. The youngest students are 5 years old but the oldest are in their 80's and 90s!!. No other place like it in ATLANTA or Georgia!!! read more

C K.

10 years ago

I've practiced martial arts for 30 years. Sifu Sule Welch is the best teacher I've ever had. He is thorough, explains techniques intricate detail and has broad knowledge of a diverse field of material. Sifu understands, not just the techniques, but the history of the styles and philosophies he teaches. He expects the same of his students. He's firm but compassionate and fair. He's so intelligent, but never arrogant. He's one of the rare people who performs on a higher level, but is humble. He genuinely cares about his students bot matter their level of competence. Above all, he is a good friend. read more

J. D.

11 years ago

Instructor Sule Welch has a wealth of experience, and that's not even the best part. There are plenty of instructors with experience. It's the way he teaches, the way he thoughtfully explains material and ideas, that make the Welch Experience special. If you're anywhere near the Sandy Springs area, your search for authentic martial arts, including physical and personal development is over! It's clean, it's organized, and Mr. Welch is a professional who delivers the best training in the area!!! read more

Nicky B.

10 years ago

Our classes emphasize patience and discipline while training us in ways to actively defend ourselves and create more awareness. Each class is unique including physical training to increase our fitness, practice in so many different techniques from a range of methods and traditions which rewire our brains and physiology as well as philosophy that expands our way of seeing the world and the way we move through it. TWE is family and Coach/Sifu/Guro Sule is a great teacher, a treasure! read more

Noreen O.

10 years ago

Highly recommend visiting this amazing marital arts studio (adults, seniors & kids). He provides a variety of classes. Sule has years of experience in martial arts with five black belts, he runs a professional outfit. My son is a member for three years, he attends class three times a week & three weeks of camp in the summer. He is learning so much: physical fitness, respect, self control, responsibility & self defense plus fine tuning his motor skills. read more

Cameron M.

105

11 years ago

The Welch Experience is an awesome experience! I have trained under Sifu Sule Welch for about 7 years now and I have grown in all aspects of my life. Not only am I confident in my ability to defend myself, I am in excellent mental and physical shape! This is a great place to learn self defense, hit fitness goals, and find your happy place. Definitely a life changing experience! read more

Jeff G.

11 years ago

If you are looking for fitness with a purpose this is the place to be! Sifu/Coach Sule is knowledgeable and keeps the energy level high. Comprehensive, real life Martial Arts in a learning and teaching environment 2nd to none. Highly recommended as a great place to train or get fit. Both if you can read more

David W.

10 years ago

We've been to other martial art places and The Welch Martial Art Experience is the best by far! The knowledge and experience is amazing and it is a very welcoming atmosphere. My teenage son has a passion for it and his growth mentally and physically has been amazing to see. I highly recommend it! read more

Sule W.

11 years ago

The Welch Experience is martial art program rooted in the principles of Discipline, Honor, & Respect for the individual and humanity. If you are striving to become the best you can be strongly consider choosing one or many of the martial science or Martial Fitness® training programs they offer. read more

T G.

11 years ago

I have enjoyed training & learning under Sule Welch for some time now. This is a great place to tap into your hidden potential, learn something new, or get some exercise. In my opinion he is the best kept secret in Sandy Springs. Check this place out you won't regret it. Tony read more

Helen C.

10 years ago

Been through so many fighting/fitness gyms around Atlanta and there is none like Sifu Sule's martial arts location. He's not only knowledgeable, positive-spirited, experienced and a fantastic teacher, but the family you genuinely build at the dojo is priceless. read more

Shawn H.

10 years ago

The Welch Martial Art Experience is a great place to not only learn concepts but also practical applications. Instructor Sule Welch is dynamic, engaging and knowledgeable. The Welch Martial Art Experience is a great place mental and physical fitness. read more

Dexter H.

9 years ago

The Welch Experience helped take my training and conditioning to the next level. I have lifted weights for several years, but JKD increased my flexibility, focus and overall conditioning. JKD has provided me with both mental and physical fitness. read more

Welch Martial Art Experience - martialarts - Updated August 2026

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after I cracked my femur Jason worked with me on the exercises that helped me heal much faster…read more He is excellent in working with you for whatever you need to work on. Great person with a huge personality. Great to work with.

Fantastic gym if you just want to get in shape, learn self defense or become a competitive fighter…read more Richard Trammell is a incredible trainer and one of the most positive and inspiring person I know.

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I 1000% recommend Gracie Jujitsu Decatur!! I've been so lucky that my kids have been going to…read moreGracie for years and they love it! the summer camps are fun for all ages and their classes teach them not only self defense but also self regulation, respect, and even helping around the house for their parents! I love their #1 rule of "avoid the fight at all costs" but I also love that my kids know how to defend themselves if needed. the owners are so very kind and members of the Decatur community and they are always sponsoring local sports and such. I am so glad our kids have been a part of the Gracie Decatur family!

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Black Knight Martial Arts

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My son has been training here for 6years. Its safe to say, we love this place…read more Black Knight has been very inclusive and consistently supporting families from all over metro Atlanta(we live on the SW side and come twice a week) My son has grown in strength, confidence, mental and emotional discipline because of their reinforcement and teachings. Black Knight supports "anti bullying" , hosts community blood drives and enables parents to have a "Parents Night Out" by holding special monthly evening sessions. I highly recommend taking this Back To School special- give your child this gift!

My daughter attended camp here last week. She really enjoyed it and the staff was great. If she…read moreasks to take Hapkido in the future, I would not hesitate to let her go back.

Park & Roll

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Amazing experience. Jiu-Jitsu in the park. Open mat. Knowledge with other people who share the same…read morepassion for the ART. Thank you ParkandRoll for bringing this to Atlanta. Jiu-Jitsu in the park I love it.

I have one of the best practices yesterday at the park and roll seminar,open mat and cook out put…read moretogether by the Founders Latina and Cam. The space was clean and dramatically 90% bug free! The comradeship, sharing of knowledge, and simple fun with jujitsu was almost beyond words. Various schools come together to support one another for the sake of sharing Jujitsu with Atlanta. The farmers market was incredible as well. Bring a newbie or experienced grappler and they will enjoy the experience!

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Bangkok Boxing Fitness- Midtown

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Very disappointed in the owners Khunpon and his wife's behavior(at both locations). There was an…read moreissue regarding masks and I stated I was offended by his reaction towards me wearing a mask. Instead of resolving the issue himself, he had his assistant apologize on his behalf and refused to speak with me in person. It all boiled down to an anti-blackness negative social stigma and I was discriminated against because I am a woman of color. I felt very uncomfortable continuing with a gym membership at either location. Great front desk assistant, terrible owners. The owner needs to comprehend that African-American's are the main ones supporting his gym and I will not take this discrimination lightly, neither should his customers. I have plenty of Asian-American friends, so this is not a bashing moment, this is a festering boil that needs to be popped!

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This place is a hidden gem…read more First off all, it really is hidden. If you don't know to look for it, you'll drive right past. Once you turn into the parking lot, the gym is down a hidden stairway on the left. As a member, you have a choice to sign up for boxing, strength & conditioning, Muay Thai, kickboxing, or jiu jitsu classes. The trainers push you hard, in the best way. By and large, they move around the room keeping an eye on everyone...making form corrections and gently encouraging to push yourself further. They are accepting of members of all shapes and sizes, and seem to take in consideration the physical and strength abilities of each individual. There is a great variety of DBs, KBs, BBs, and cardio machines (much bought in the past year) to use on your own and on your own timetable, if you choose. You also have the option to take classes at any of the other five locations, for added variety. The Sandy Springs location has the added bonus of having a dry sauna for post-workout "cooldown". The truth is that I have gym at home with much of the equipment found here, but I will never be able to get the results I get by coming to this gym. Having a trainer (most have been there several years) to push you past your preconceived limits is priceless. Add to that a great group of other participants (all on various journeys of their own) to offer additional encouraging words or fist bumps. I feel that the monthly fee is pricey, but I believe it's still in line with what most other gyms of this type charge. And the fact that they have continued to purchase new equipment (small and large), shows that they are willing to continuously invest in what they have to offer. Ultimately, Team Octopus - Sandy Springs has become a home-away-from-home. I, regularly, look forward to seeing the trainers and my new friends there...and to seeing the physical and mental limits that I'm able to push (or be pushed) past. After some soul-searching, I decided recently that there was no better investment than my physical, mental, and emotional well-being, and purchased a lifetime membership. T.O. may not become as integral part of your life, but it just might. Give it a chance, it might change your life.

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