Great instructors, fun for kids while learning Great techniques! Highly recommended! A trial class…read moreis available as well

Very nice students and respectful teachers! Sometimes makes the lessons fun and the exercises/warm…read moreups are just right. Teachers would motivate you to keep going together with the balance of keeping it fun. I recommend this Taekwondo School!

It is a great honor to train under the guidance and patience (and occasional good-natured laughter)…read moreof Grandmaster Tae, the Masters and Assistant Masters at W Kim Tae Kwon Do in Lake Zurich, the Black Belts with whom we train, and my fellow students. I did not join W Kim TKD in LZ as a member in search of "a workout", though through my first eight weeks of training I've certainly discovered and felt muscles I did not know I had. To train with any instructor at W Kim TKD LZ is to feel at some point being truly "pushed", in ways I'd imagine nearly anyone seeking "a workout" would desire. I write this even having trained for and completed five marathons. I am new in my journey toward studying any martial art, currently a High White Belt in Tae Kwon Do. New as I am, even in my upper-40's, and for as much as I stumble along the way, I have no desire to stop training. I chose to pursue study of Tae Kwon Do out of the desire to inspire my 8 year-old son to finish what he started in his own training. About a year ago, when, as a Green Belt in his training, my son grew resistant to the increasing challenges presented to him, I chose to commit to my son that I would personally join him in his training en route to earning a Black Belt.. once he had advanced past Green Belt himself. True to the spirit of this school, my son persevered, and eventually earned his Purple Belt in a Belt Promotion that put his skills and training to the test. And so began our journey together. It is through the spirit of focus, concentration, and tenacity dwelling at the heart of all that happens in every lesson within the school at W Kim TKD Lake Zurich that my son and I have each found a unique but potent way to connect with each other, in participating individually in an experience that undeniably moves each of us beyond our perceived limits. We train in separate rooms, but we know the other is working hard, each in our own pursuit of becoming a better person. The mutual feeling of success after each lesson for each of us is undeniable, and makes for some very enjoyable conversation and celebration together on the ride home.. and for many hours to follow. More importantly, though, the shared experiences we have together at this school have deepened our mutual connection as father and son. These are truly priceless memories that are being formed. If all that I just wrote here still leaves anyone unconvinced, you can freely get a sense of what to expect at W Kim TKD in Lake Zurich simply by looking through the windows of its main training studio, toward its southernmost walls. Take in the Student Creed, the Tenets and Oaths of Taekwondo, and the Children Home Rules. Then, decide for yourself whether what you see written there would be of value to you and/or your children. I know that for me, and for what is plainly viewable as a true, vibrant community amongst the students and teachers, what I saw on that wall was worth pursuing. As both a father and as a midage adult working to improve upon my own internal resolve, I do not regret doing so. I am certain many other students would say the same. - Steve

I have been a student of the Kims at their Palatine locations for about 25 years. My wife and two…read morekids also went for a while. Although I admit, I have not gone for a while. On a shopping trip to Trader Joe's in Lake Zurich, I had forgotten they opened a second location in the same strip mall. So, at around noon on a Saturday, I dropped in. Hoping to run into Master Tae Hyung Kim, I learned he had already left for the day. But, I met the lead instructor and observed for a while. I remember when they had one location in downtown Palatine that was great, but very "lived in". This new location is really nice. It's well lit, the gym is large, the instructors have microphones they wear so they can easily be heard. And, since many of their students are kids, they have a great seating area where parents can watch the classes. I'm really sorry that I missed Tae, but I did leave my number for him. For a couple of years I've said I would go back again. I need to get back in shape. One day, I will be back.

I'm a parent of two 13 year old girls and a student myself. The instruction and facility is first…read morerate. This is not a McDojo - don't expect to pay a bunch of money and have a black belt presented to a 13 year old in a year. This is the real thing - it takes years of practice and training to achieve that kind of stature, but you're working with the best. The founders are dedicated to disciplining the body and the mind.

My 6 y/o son takes Tae Kwon Do classes here and it's a wonderful program for young kids. Master…read moreJeong is great with the kids and teaches them discipline but does a lot of fun things with them to keep them involved and engaged. I'd highly recommend this place for active kids who need an outlet for their pent up energy.

I truly cannot say enough good things about this place. I enrolled my six year old boy in classes…read morehoping that he would gain confidence and strength. He gained that and so much more. The Masters are absolutely amazing. They are true teachers and not babysitters. They are tough yet caring. They give each individual child the attention they need. Not only do they teach the traditional Taekwondo routines, they also teach real life scenario defense moves. The price is very reasonable and the class days and times should be able to match most busy schedules. I highly recommend Dragon k for anyone, child or adult, looking to enhance their skills, increase discipline and strength, agility, and of course, self-defense.

Kihap is a fantastic martial arts school! I can't say enough good things about Master Joffrey! I…read morehave been taking classes for 4 years & both of my boys (8 & 5 yo) also attend. The growth I've seen in them in skills, confidence & respect has been incredible! They both love attending their classes at Kihap. Master Joff even offers a family class on Saturdays that my husband, who isn't in martial arts, enjoys attending with us. This is by far the best martial arts school/option in Gurnee & the surrounding areas!

Master Joff is a world-class instructor! He is graciously passing on not just his exceptional…read moreskills that he gained from numerous competitions in the Philippines, Korea, and throughout the US, but also his black belt character to his students. Kihap Martial Arts is the only school I know that volunteers in different schools with the goal of helping the children reach their full potential. They are great with kids! I highly recommend them! They truly exceed expectations! You get your money's worth and even more!

BEWARE! Prices posted online are a bait and switch. It was a pretty DISHONEST exchange w/the…read moreowner.... The class was good and the facility is as well. However, I registered online for family class. When we arrived the owner confirmed we had registered online and gave us uniforms. After class he informed me that his prices online were incorrect and that the actual cost was more than double. So I went from paying $170 to being asked for $360. That was out of my budget (and I've since found that every other school in the area is about $120 for family class). I let the owner know I couldn't swing that and asked for a refund. He got pretty loud and mentioned uniforms. I said he could deduct some of the uniform costs but did say it felt dishonest to give me the uniforms before telling me the real cost of the classes. He agreed to try to work something out with me. That was two months ago... I've called two more times and emailed and he's never responded. I have since contacted an attorney.

We have been going to USA Martial Arts for a little over a year, and it is already a second home to…read moreme and my family, and the people have become like family. Sometimes, trying new things can be embarrassing at first, but the comfortable and encouraging atmosphere makes all the difference. I've noticed so many positive changes in my kids and myself. My youngest daughter's issues with focusing have improved, and so have mine, along with my memory and overall mental health. My oldest daughter is more confident, as am I. My nephew has been making it to school every day and is learning self-control. I'm finally learning self-discipline, and I'm happier than I've been in a long time. The family class is so much fun now that more parents have joined. The sparring class is the highlight of my week. Master Von Patten and Mr. Damitz are incredible teachers who collaborate with other schools to offer as much as possible for us. USA Martial Arts is a great school!

Kiyaaaaa!!!!!!! The Karate Kid has nothing on my kid!…read more My 6 year old just recently started taking classes from Yong-In Yu's Martial Arts. We were told about local places through rec centers, but I wanted a place that was an actual dojo, not some gym. How are you supposed to take something seriously if it's in a gymnasium? The dojo gives my son an understanding that this is something real, not just the latest Ninjago episode. When I originally checked out the dojo, we signed up for the trial where you get the uniform and three classes. That way, you can see if this is going to be a fit for your kid or not. The location can't be beat, and there's a Starbucks right next door. Anyone who knows me that I'm a Starbucks addict. And being able to walk over here during class and just relax is an incredible bonus. When else am I supposed to catch up on work. (OK... the latest issue of People magazine. But who's telling?) I didn't know much about Master Yu initially, but he really has impressed me. My kid has some sensory issues, and so I was concerned if this was going to be a fit. Sometimes he just can't handle loud noises and can feel crowded. Master Yu listened, figured out what worked and before I knew it, my Vman was falling in line and LOVING it. Yes, Sir! Yes, Ma'am! Vman is learning respect for his teachers, how to think and focus on what he's doing and work with the others in his class, too. Now, he is six, so I'm not kidding myself. He still goofs around, just like ALL the other kids his age. But I can see that they are all very excited to get to class and get started. One thing that made it hard to sign up was you have to sign a one-year contract. Ouch. If you don't know that this is a long-term thing, you can sign up for monthly classes but they are more expensive. Also, if you sign up for a year, you can only go to two classes a week. If I get a gym membership I can come whenever I want. However, if you sign up for two years, you can go as often as you want. I'm not saying I'm going to go all gung-ho on my kid, (you know, those psycho parents who are like... you WILL like Tae Kwon Do. You WILL like it. You WILL succeed) but knowing that if my kid wants to go to extra classes in the week we can would be a great option. That said, Master Yu is a serious Tae Kwon Do master -- not just some dude who likes martial arts and thought he would open a dojo. In fact, I'm not sure how he ended up in the NorthShore. Here's some of his RSV.... graduated from Yong-In University with a master degree in Tae Kwon Do (didn't know master degrees existed for martial arts); 6th Degree Black Belt; 5 time National Korean National Champion. Yong-In is a terrific place for your kid to learn a sport, get more control and absolutely love it along the way. I highly recommend checking it out... just peek in like I did to see a class if you're wondering.

Yu's Yong-In Martial Arts is a great place for the entire family. Master Yu is an excellent…read moreinstructor and teaches Tae Kwon Do - Step by Step. Yu's Yong-In Martial Arts offeres classes for everyone- young and old- beginner to advanced. Yu's Yong-In Martial Arts also provides visiting Master's from Korea(Student's from Yong-In University teaching aboard), which is a great cultural exchange. In addition, the visiting Master's bring great positive energy and want to share their knowledge of Tae Kwon Do - which is a benefit to everyone! In addition, Master Yu is there everyday and over see's all instruction. Come to the school and try it out and see for yourself, you will not be disappointed!

My introduction to Braun's Karate and Martial Arts Academy (BKMA) began nearly four years ago when…read moremy then 10-year-old grandson told me he wanted to learn karate. I had prior experience with a commercial karate studio back in 2011 when I took my granddaughter, who was 8 years old at the time, to classes. It felt more like being sold a product than being part of something meaningful. The cost was high, and there was pressure to commit to a long-term contract after a short trial period. She enjoyed it for a while, but eventually lost interest. So when I started searching for a program for my grandson, BKMA immediately stood out. The cost was very reasonable, and after reading about the variety of martial arts taught--along with Sensei Braun's experience--I was interested right away. After bringing my grandson to his first class and meeting Sensei Braun, I knew we had found the right place. This isn't a flashy, commercial strip mall dojo. It's located in the basement of a lakeside church that's over 100 years old. And that's part of what makes it special. It's a place focused on learning, discipline, and training--very much in line with what you would expect from a traditional dojo. As time went on, it became clear this is a true family dojo. You'll see students of all ages training together--kids, parents, and adults. Sempai help guide newer students, but just as importantly, students help each other. It's encouraged for students to lead drills, work with newer students, and step into leadership roles. That builds confidence, reinforces learning, and teaches you to take on challenges both in training and in life. Families learn side by side, and students are introduced to karate, Feeding Crane Kung Fu, and Escrima--part of Sensei Braun's SanHoDo Budo system. What makes this system unique is how it blends multiple martial arts while allowing each student to develop based on their strengths. There is also a strong emphasis on learning beyond physical technique--understanding the history of martial arts, reading, studying, watching instructional videos, and continually expanding knowledge. It's not just about movement; it's about understanding what you're doing and where it comes from. What stands out most is how accessible and encouraging the environment is. Students are supported at every level and encouraged to work within their own abilities while still being challenged to improve. I am currently 62 years old and began training later in life, even after having both knees replaced. What I've experienced firsthand is that this dojo meets you where you are--but also challenges you to grow beyond where you think your limits are. Over time, it becomes clear that this is not a place focused on quick advancement or handing out belts. Progress is earned through consistent effort, discipline, and a willingness to learn. Training here challenges both the body and the mind. It builds strength, confidence, and discipline, while also encouraging curiosity and respect for the history behind the martial arts. The idea of developing a "karate body" isn't a finish line--it's something that is continually worked on and refined over time. But beyond all of that, what truly stands out is the sense of community. This is a dojo where people support each other, learn from each other, and grow together. It's a place where families can train side by side and where lasting connections are built. This review comes from the heart. If you're looking for a place that treats martial arts like a transaction or focuses on quick promotions, BKMA may not be for you. But if you want to: * Train with purpose * Learn multiple martial arts styles * Understand the history behind what you're practicing * Continuously grow both physically and mentally * Be part of a supportive martial arts family Then BKMA is absolutely the place to be. If you're willing to put in the work, you'll gain far more than just martial arts skills--you'll grow as a person.