Martial Arts Schools near Maplewood

“Our 8 year old son loves Way of Life Karate, loves the teacher, and is always enthusiastic to go to class two or three times a week. I particularly like the competitive but peaceful approach to karate. There is no "sweep the leg!!" here. Just good exercise, good attitudes, and respect for yourself and others. All good!“

“This school is a perfect analogy to the art it teaches: It is very traditional with solid roots and clear lineage, but is very much living... by which I mean it does not get caught in the superficial trappings that some schools put forward to convince outsiders of their authenticity. The environment is very friendly and laid back, but the training is very real. If you want to train for self defense, for art, for health, or for self discovery and development of a more centered outlook and peace of mind, all of those things can be found at Lee Gar Lun. Also the folks I have met here are uniformly just awesome people. It is common practice in a kung fu school to refer to fellow students as brothers and sisters, but I have to say, at this place I really do feel it. One thing I'll say... Don't expect to learn it all overnight. If you want to advance you have to put the time and effort in... don't look to the calendar to tell you when a belt test is (there is nothing like that here). But you put in the work and you will reap the rewards... and that's kinda the meaning of Kung Fu in the first place.“

“If you are looking to try or take a martial arts class, then this is the place to be. I have been coming here for the Muay Thai classes for a few months now, and I am absolutely impressed by the knowledge, patience, dedication, and respect that Walt and his staff have shown me. They have also created a positive environment that makes you feel right at home. There is a place for you here, regardless of who you are and what your skill level is. You will laugh, you will learn, you will grow and get stronger, and you will get a great workout! Thank you Walt and Fight and Fitness MMA staff for welcoming me into your community and for all of your dedication! It shows! Sincerely, Dahlia“

“If you are considering starting your martial arts journey or looking for a new studio to call home, I wholeheartedly recommend Moo Duk Kwan HQ (formerly known as Hwang Karate). Master Erik Orella is a world-class Instructor and a Certified Sa Bom ("Instructor of Instructors") who can effectively relate to individuals of all ages and ranks. He is extremely talented at tailoring his guidance to suit your level and goals.The classes are well-structured and dynamic, keeping each session engaging and challenging. Beyond the benefits of physical fitness and mental focus, the studio instills valuable life lessons such as discipline, perseverence, and respect. Moo Duk Kwan HQ is much more than a place to train - it's a place to grow, learn and become the best version of yourself!“

“Excellent instruction. Very good with kids of all ages. Teaches focus, respect and discipline along with the art with positive encouragement and reinforcement. Highly recommend.“

“I enrolled my daughter and niece's into this school a few months ago. After seeing how obsessed my daughter is with Akido and with some encouragement from Sempi Frank and Daniel, I got on the mat. It was the best decision.You get to train with both the students and Sempi’s. And let me tell you, the Sempi’s are great!! I have had the pleasure to be trained by Sempi Daniel, Olga, Darrel, Barry, Paul, and Tom,(who’s a total bada$$). They are all patient and encouraging.The best part about training here is that you feel at home.Sensi Jay believes in creating more than just a school. He believes in creating a community and he has succeeded. He makes you feel welcomed from the first day.So if you are on the fence about joining, I encourage you to come in and try one class. You won’t regret it. Plus, it’s a great workout!!“

“Our son loves Martial Arts for Life and has really thrived in the program. He looks forward to class and loves showing us all of his new moves. We love the family feel of the program and all of the confidence he’s gaining along the way!“

“Hello our Alden has been a member of Del Martial Arts for over 4 years and continues to benefit in numerous ways! Master Paul and his terrific staff provide Alden with excellent exercise, self discipline, a sense of accomplishment, all integrated with fun and companionship. if you are looking for any of the above experiences, please review the Del Martial Arts website, you will be so glad you did!“

“our son LOVED his week at nature camp! he is really happy and enjoyed exploring the forest and learning about all of its inhabitants while making friends. Candace and Ray were so welcoming and understanding of kids who need a little extra time to feel comfortable in a new environment. at the end of the program our son was so confident and proud to take us on the trail their group would take. so glad we decided to sign him up for camp and that there is a nature program that also involves discovering and studying the environment a little further. looking forward to going to camps again in the future!“

“I have been a member of CruzMMA for about 2 weeks now and my experience has been nothing short of amazing. All instructors are clear and concise with instructions. It is a competitive environment but everyone at the gym is nice and truly cares about each other. I have improved technique and form in a short matter of time. Professor Plinio and Professor Thiago are the best instructors I’ve had in a long time. Highly recommend CruzMMA if you live in the area or if you are looking for a new environment to get great training.“

“Master Lee is an amazing person and extremely knowledgeable about the philosophy of martial arts. In addition, he is an excellent instructor. I highly recommend his facility. My 13 year old son loves going to Master Lee's facility.“

“Positive and encouraging environment, our child has memorized the schedule and is always enthusiastic about going. We love that respect and focus are core tenets of this dojang. After trials a several martial arts facilities, we have found our home here!“

“This a such a great school , you learn so much about Kung fu but you also learn who you are as a person. It is a mind and body school. You learn how to focus and get rid of those loud outside distractions in life. This school is about balance as well as to how to protect yourself. My family have been coming to this school for almost 14 years, yes, 14 years and it has made us strong. This schools (people) has become part of our family. We are strong together! Come and check us out and see what I am talking about.“

“Professional, Courtious, Disciplined, Self-AwareAbeer, my almost 7yo son has been to USA Karate and Fitness at their Avenel and Clark locations, since 2023. He started as MMA White Belt when he was 5. Now he is a Green Belt and going towards his Black Belt in a few years.Kids come here to become their best, stay super energized, and build character.Master Ruff, Master Chad, Master Esha have an engaging nature with kids of all age group.I would recommend USA Karate & Fitness to every kid.“

“AMPED is the real deal! Beyond impressed with the training and knowledge my son is receiving. Master John is great with the kids, my son has learned so much already and looks forward to going twice a week. We love watching him too! Can't wait for my younger son to join next year !!“

“Highly recommendedMy kids has been going to USA karate and fitness since last year.Both love it so much ,they never want to miss a session.Mr. C and his team are exceptional! They are very skilful, fun and very encouraging.We just celebrated my kids birthday here and the instructors went above and beyond , best parties ever.Also Parents night out here is so much fun and a safe place for our kids .“

“New Jersey Tae Kwon Do Chung Do Kwan has been an amazing experience for our youngest child, who sometimes takes a while to warm up to people and new situations. Yet within a couple of weeks, we saw in him a new confidence and an eagerness to attend class and demonstrate his newfound skills, which was a big change, especially with other sports we had tried.Steve is a kind of kid-whisperer in how he teaches classes, instilling in the students a healthy respect for the traditions of tae kwon do and providing encouragement every step of the way. Our child progressed through increasing belt levels regularly, and he was deservedly proud of his accomplishments. The space itself is airy, clean and well-lighted, which makes it a pleasure to visit. We're thankful for the positive impact it's had on our kid!“

“The instructors really care about their students and are very patient. You should come here if you are trying to learn karate.“

“Excellent Karate class. Shiihan is truly an expert in Kyokushin karate and he conducts his classes in a way that instills value and comraderie. I see that in all his students no matter the belt color.“

“For anyone who wants to learn capoeira or simply train their body in ways they never thought possible, GLDC is the most welcoming of any capoeira academy I have been to, starting with the group leader.“

“I was looking for a taekwondo academy for my child that felt personal and not like a factory churning out classes without building a relationship between teacher and student. Master Chun’s academy provides that personal atmosphere where you know your child won’t be overlooked. It is perfect for a parent who wants their child to learn TKD, not only for its physical benefits, but also to build discipline and develop character. I can’t say enough good things about Master Chun. He is a great combination of a strong leader who has high expectations for his students and a warm teacher who knows how to meet the students where they are. You won’t regret starting you or your child’s TKD journey with him!“

“Where champions are made ! I’ve been going to this school since I was 3 years old and continue to admire it every day. They strive for greatness and push every student to be the best they can. I’m proud to call myself a student and competitions athlete of this school.“

“This place has been life changing for my family! Can’t say how please I am with everything. Such a safe environment for young adults with a great vibe! It’s a pleasure to be part of this community. 10 stars!!!!“

“Definitely the place to be if you have experience in Judo or interested in trying it out. It’s really big on safety and creating an atmosphere where you can move and learn at your own pace. No reason to be super fit or strong to come to this dojo. People of all shapes and sizes are welcomed. The sensei’s will critique your judo along and increase your appreciation for the sport. So if you’re just looking for a good workout, learning self defense or compete - this place is for you.“

“20 years ago I was a student here, my daughter now 6 is too. We both are. The school was established over 40 years ago and Sensei Genesco has not changed, same quality, he still teaches all classes himself...Why go anywhere else.“

“They have the best team!The best after school program in linden❤️Master matias and coach jess were all ways there to help my daughter!“