Our son has been a student at ATA Steele Creek for nearly 3 years, and we are loving it! We immediately knew we found the right martial arts program, and we're so grateful to Mr. Esposito and the amazing team of instructors who are devoted to instilling discipline, confidence, respect, perseverance and some pretty amazing skills in all their students. And I have to give a special shout out to Miss Michelle, who makes everyone feel like a special part of the ATA family. The instructors maintain high standards of discipline, commitment and effort (while also making it fun!), and it definitely shows in the amazing progress our son has made since joining. We highly recommend ATA Steele Creek! read more

This is not for 3 and 4 year olds. Negatives first: My son went through the evaluation with the owner and was permitted to join the ATA at 3.5 year old. We were flattered. But Tiny Tigers is not for a typical 3 or 4 year old. The rules are too strict. For easily distracted students, expect tears and hurt feelings from harsh discipline methods. The student to teacher ratio is not sufficient for that age group. The 6 pm classes are very full, which is where the student to teacher ratio becomes a problem. The students are not allowed to use the restroom without permission from the teacher, but (with so many kids) the teachers are not always able to see/hear them in time. Potty accidents are frequent in that age group. For Tiny Tigers, do not expect them to learn much about actual Tae Kwon Do theory or philosophy. They will go through some martial art like motions and learn to say "Yes, Sir" which is nice. I thought that was acceptable, but since leaving ATA, we've had the chance to look at other studios (Tiger Kim's and Steele Creek Martial Arts for example) and saw how much more students actually learn even at that young age. Smaller class sizes and, therefore, individual attention certainly helps and those places are not much more expensive. However, if you are fine with just a physical work out for your little one, then this place is fine. Signing a 6 months or a year contract at this young age is unreasonable. You should be able to discontinue with a 30 day notice. My son did not want to go there anymore after a couple months and neither did I but we were stuck due to a contract. Leaving on a positive note: I did really like Junior instructors especially Mr. Wallace. Five months after discontinuing from ATA my 4 year old still speaks about him with fondness. I hope he opens his own studio. It's also a great idea that the kids get to bring in their art projects and homework for little stars and recognition. It's a good work out for your little one. read more

We didn't know what to exactly to expect when we enrolled both our boys in ATA Steele Creek, we had heard good things but still a little unsure. It's safe to say that 5 months later our boys love their Takewodo class, they have made valuable relationships with their classmates and instructors, but the biggest gem has been a the increased confidence I have seen in my boys! My oldest was very nervous about his initial class and now he can't wait to go or show his friends all the cool new taekwondo moves he has learned! If you have a child in need of a structured but fun activity, along with increasing their capabilities to protect themselves then ATA Steel Creek is the place for your child!!! read more

Not safe for kids. Is not complying with state regulations during COVID-19. Usually, a great environment for anyone, however, during these times that are out of our control, they aren't doing anything to ease fears, provide additional sanitization, or smaller classes for social distancing, or closing. Refunds are refused, and freezing of accounts is also not an option. If I can't send my kid to school, why do I have to pay for an optional class? (That until now, I would have signed my kid back up for once it was safe to) I just hope no one gets sick. Or worse, dies. read more

I've been practicing Krav Maga here for the past few months and really look forward to my... Monday (8pm), Wednesday (8pm), Thursday (8:15pm) night classes + Saturday (8:45am) mornings! The class seems to be about 50/50 women and men and I've had the opportunity to work with multiple partners (all female for me so far, although you can choose whoever you want to work with) at varying levels of expertise. Everyone has been super friendly, encouraging and helpful as I've learned all of the new techniques. You can tell the students make up one big happy family and I didn't feel like the new kid for very long. The instructors are entertaining but you can tell they are very technical and excellent at what they do. They are happy to answer questions, demonstrate the proper way to do the exercises and make an effort to get to know each student on a personal level. They offer modifications when necessary, but encourage you to keep pushing through minor discomfort. It has helped me build mental toughness to "do one more," when I think I can't. I learned in the first class that the goal of Krav Maga (at least at ATA) is not to prove that you're stronger, tougher, or more powerful than someone attacking you - but to "get home safe." The message really resonates with me as I don't particularly like to fight, but I do like to feel more confident that I could protect myself should I ever need to do so. I was looking for stress relief, an awesome workout, self-defense tactics and to have some accountability for exercising. I found all of that w/ATA and would highly recommend coming for a free trial class to see what it's all about! read more

ATA Steele Creek - Martial Arts Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

ATA Steel Creek is an outstanding establishment! With a friendly and family focus staffed. Great place for anyone to learn great technique and reinforce discipline... read more

I initially started my child at this location a year ago. So I believe now is the best time to leave a review, after having invested over a years time and money here. Before enrolling my child here, I researched other locations and decided on this one. Please know, this is not a short posting. 1) Discipline - the instructors practice what they preach. I've seen students get singled out (in a stern yet respectful voice) whenever they aren't being respectful. 2) Fun - Ive watched my own child smile and laugh in class. As well as the other kids. They range in age from 5 years to tweens and teens. Even though they preach being stern and disciplined, they always make sure they have smiles. 3) Engaged - the instructors are always engaged with the students. They move around and try to correct and help as many students as them they can. Remember, they will have a lot of students in class. So they try their best to make sure everyone is doing the forms, kicks, punches as properly as possible. 4) Pricing - the pricing isn't bad at all. If you look at the total package. The monthly charge, your child can take up to 4 classes a week, that's 16 classes a month. Personally, I love that I can take my child to classes up to 4 times a week. Time ranges from 30 minutes (beginner classes) to 45 minutes (once you and them decide it's time to move up in class.) when I compare swim classes to once a week. I get more bang to the buck here. 5) Growth - I've watched my child grow and improve every class. After a year, the improvements have been wonderful to see. But the one growth I was pleasantly happy to see, the growth of the junior instructors. To watch Mr. Hill and Ms. Sterling grow at the same time as my child, has been wonderful. I've started to see them leading some classes now, which is great. I can see the confidence that is growing inside them. This is enlightening and let me explain why. We expect our own children to grow in any activity we put them in. But to see the junior instructors growing too, showed me that the leaders not only focus on my child's growth, but the growth of his staff and junior instructors. That shows me that this is his passion, because a leader teaches others to become future leaders and that he's not afraid to have people around him that may eventually become as good, if not better than him. This exudes confidence in oneself and their abilities to teach. 6) Respect - one trait that we all wish for each other, is practiced and preached here daily. From shaking someone's hand, to opening a door. And to bow to your opponent. Respect is given and earned. I appreciate that they are teaching this trait to the children at this school. 7) Honesty - I've seen places where they will move a child up, just for the sake of moving them up. One of the things I really appreciate is the honesty the leadership has here. As far as ranking up in belts, they will be honest with you about the growth of your child. We've seen him pull a parent into a room or to the side and give an honest opinion that their child is not ready for the next testing cycle. Of course, as a parent we do not want to hear this. But this showed me that it wasn't just about the money. He could've just taken the money and ranked the child up, even though he knew they shouldn't. But he didn't, he was honest and told them he believed they weren't ready. But, he does offer a solution, such as spending a little extra time in practicing with him or even the junior instructors before the testing date. As long as both the parent and child put in the effort, it would work. I've even seen him on the day of testing that certain kids weren't ready to test. Again, this is upsetting, but he does come up with a solution to help them rank up when they are ready, by having dialogue with the parent. In conclusion, if you're willing to put in the time and effort to help your child grow into a well rounded individual, who is looking to grow, learn, challenge themselves, be respectful and have some fun, I would recommend this place. I hope this review wasn't too long, I wanted to be as detailed as possible, since this is an investment into an activity your child may or may not do. Thank you. read more

I would recommend ATA Steele Creek to anybody that is looking for a martial arts studio for their children or even themselves. The instructors go above and beyond and make you feel like you're a part of their family. They practice what they preach when it comes to respect, discipline and just doing what is right. It is by far one of the best things that I've done for my children. They have so much fun and love being apart of the community. Plus, they offer adult Krav Maga classes which are informative, interactive and fun! read more

Post Transplant/Imunnosuppressed patient denied 50% refund from ATA Steele Creek Good Morning, All! I really did not want to make this type of post, bc I really like the staff, but here we are. Before I go any further, I want to make it CRYSTAL clear that we tried to go about to the right way by reaching out via THREE separate e-mails only for the owner to not even ACKNOWLEDGE my condition. As many of you know my son started karate at ATA Steele Creek last fall and absolutely LOVED IT! He excelled pretty quickly and was able to move up to the next level. On February 28th of this year, we paid $1926 to cover his karate tuition and new gear cost. He was set to start his new class with his new gear in late March....then Covid happened. ATA has since reopened and resumed classes but the problem (a good problem) is that I received a kidney transplant last May and as a result of that I am permanently immunosuppressed thus more susceptible to getting sick. The ATA facility isn't that big to begin with, so social distancing would be a challenge. After taking all of that into consideration, my wife and I decided that unfortunately it wouldn't be safe for our son to return. As I mentioned earlier, we reached out to the ATA staff on 3 separate occasions and proposed a 50% refund (because we wanted to be fair understanding that they are a small business) and to offer our son's unused gear to another family for free (because we never even had the chance to pick it up). Again, despite what we felt was a very fair offer we were met with responses that didn't even acknowledge my condition and were told that per our contract NO refund would be offered and that they couldn't offer a refund to one family and not the others. While we understand that every family can't receive a refund, our hope was that with my VERY SPECIFIC health condition, and us only seeking a 50% refund that we were making a fair request. I am sure that most of us can agree, especially during this pandemic, $1926 isn't a small amount to just give away. Again, due to the owner's complete disregard and ignoring of my situation I doubt we will see any money come back our way, but at a minimum I at least will feel a little better letting the public know who and what we are dealing with. read more

I tried a number of martial arts studios in the area after deciding to learn self-defense. ATA was the first one where I felt immediately at home. I took one Krav Maga class, got hooked and have been coming 3-5 times a week for over a year now. Mr. Esposito and Mr. Moraes create a welcoming environment with a tough love that pushes you to reach goals you never knew you were capable of. Before starting here, I had never even thrown a punch. Now, I feel I can protect myself in any situation. That was all I initially came for. What I also got was a second family and instructors who are so entertaining you almost forget the incredible workout you're also getting in ("not really!"). You'd be hard-pressed to find a more accepting, encouraging bunch anywhere. read more

As a young woman who travels often by myself, I knew I wanted to learn how to protect myself. Not only did I learn to fight from Mr. Moraes and Mr. Esposito, I also found a home away from home with all of the members at the school. The year and a half I spent learning at this school ended only once work sent me north, not because I wanted to leave. 110% recommend the krav maga classes to anyone who is up for a challenge and a fantastic full-body workout (and you feel like a badass after you're done). read more

I've had an interest in learning Krav Maga for several decades now. I visited a Krav class at ATA Steel Creek about a year ago, and after visiting several times I was convinced that there was no way that I could keep up with the amount of cardio that I saw the students participating in each time I visited. I was very impressive to watch, but I realized that the group lessons would be way too intense for me now that I am into my mid-seventies. I spoke with Mr. Esposito about my situation and asked him if he felt that I was too old even for the private lessons. He's an amazing and patient instructor, and I'm so happy that I decided to give it a try. I'm now close to completing my first year of weekly private lessons, and I'm convinced that I can continue to learn even into my eighties. Krav and Mr. Esposito have an interesting philosophy, "bring what you have, and we'll teach you how to use it". While I no longer have the high level cardio capability, I am convinced that I am now very capable of defending myself or my family if that ever became necessary. As a bonus that I am very happy about, because of the emphasis on foot movements and posture, I almost never lose my balance while frequently doing some pretty physical activities with my chain saws in the mountains. A lot of my fellow seniors should at least visit an ATA Steel Creek Krav Maga class and start looking into an exciting new activity that will keep you active and learning for years. read more

ATA is by far the Best!! We have been attending ATA for right at a year now and I couldn't be happier, neither could my kids!! They LOVE it!! Mr. Esposito and his whole staff are phenomenal! They are so great with the kids!! Its the perfect blend of discipline and fun!! They do a great job of teaching respect for others as well as respect for yourself!! If you're thinking about joining, stop and JUST GO....you won't be disappointed!!!!! read more

Just charged $450 for cancelling when my agreement states 1mo @ $150 to cancel. Called to dispute and Especito tells my 5 year old son, wife and myself we are beat. He falsified signatures to our bank stating we owed his establishment money. Lies!!! Big business having the protection of their bank account that's allowed to Bully families at their leisure. Shoe box size hall, 50 kids running around for 30minutes for $150 per month. Sounds like 30 minute day care with overly priced equipment you can only purchase from them. Crazy!!! Leaders are driven by Will, not desire!!! No excuses, you thief!!! read more

My daughter loves her classes! The instructors were really kind and helpful getting her started. They're very encouraging, quick to help, and genuinely enjoy teaching. Would highly recommend. read more

Awesome staff!! My son absolutely loves it here! Positive Encouraging environment! Can't wait til my daughter is old enough to join. The classes involve the parents sometimes, which is a plus! and promote positive behavior among the kids! read more

I'm very impressed by how well all of the instructors are with the children. They are patient and kind to all of the children. My son is 7 and he has a great time at the classes. Also, out of all of martial arts schools I looked into, this one is affordable, and this is coming from a single mom. They are very welcoming and it is like a family, but without the drama. I would highly recommend this location to anyone. read more

I can say that beyond a shadow of a doubt, I, and my 4 children go to ATA for the instructors. As with school and anything you are learning, you need instructor involvement. EVERY instructor here takes the time to be personally involved with Parent and Students. If Parents need support, they have it from the instructors. The family environment is second to none. Whether it is Taekwondo, Krav, or the various parties for the kids and students, everyone comes together as a family to bond and support ATA and each other. Why? Because this is the atmosphere where EVERYONE succeeds, and you can feel it. read more

I love the Krav Maga classes here. Mr. Moraes is very knowledgeable and takes the time to show proper technique. Mr. Esposito was very helpful during my first class and continues to challenge us all. The tiny tigers are absolutely adorable to watch. read more

Read all clauses before you sign the contract. They have $300 non-refundable fee that is in the contract which you will not get back even if you cancel within the cool-off period of 3 days. Unless you are sure you are committed for 1 year which is their minimum contract period donot ink the paper! read more

My family and I have been attending ATA Steele Creek for a little over two years. My six year old son started Taekwondo classes when he was four, and my three year old daughter started this past summer. Both of them love attending class and ask to come every day. I have seen such vast improvements in both my children and love seeing them develop in areas of respect, discipline, confidence, physical wellness, and self defense. It is very fulfilling as a parent to see such young children setting difficult goals for themselves and be excited to reach them. For many students at ATA Steele Creek, earning their black belt is their main goal, and along the way they obtain valuable knowledge that is applicable both inside and outside the Taekwondo academy. ATA Steele Creek is so successful because the instructors maintain discipline in their students while simultaneously allowing them to have fun. The instructors are very knowledgeable, patient, and create the perfect atmosphere for students to get excited to learn. The chief instructor is constantly training himself in order to be the best he can for his students. This provides a great example for students and more than qualifies him to instruct. One of the most important things to me as a parent is that each child is truly cared for. If a child is having difficulty, the instructors will go above and beyond in helping that child and make it into a positive learning experience. This academy is not only a place to learn Taekwondo, but also Krav Maga and boxing, both of which I started this year. While Krav Maga is a very effective form of self defense, the instructors provide a safe and fun atmosphere to learn various tactics. The classes are an amazing workout, and learning self defense has become a top priority for me - knowing how to keep myself and my family safe has become imperative. After discovering boxing, I quickly learned that it is something I am passionate about. My instructor is beyond patient, explains things very effectively, and makes my weekly private lesson something I look forward to. I never imagined learning this much confidence at this stage of my life, but Krav Maga and boxing have both given me the tools to be confident, in shape, and knowledgeable in self defense. ATA Steele Creek has been such a positive influence in my life and my childrens' lives. I am forever grateful for all they have done and continue to do! Stop by and check it out if you are interested in learning values that are good for your mind and body from highly qualified instructors!!! read more

Love it here. They are so good with the kids. We have noticed such a difference with our son.