I wanted to share some of the highlights that explain why I think this karate school is great and…read moreworthy of consideration by anyone looking to pursue a martial arts education for themselves or their family. Nam's Karate has been in the Pittsburgh area since 1979. It is deeply established and rooted in the tradition, knowledge, and understanding of the art of Tang Soo Do. The Masters and Instructors are knowledgeable, personable, and driven. They take the time to work one-on-one with students and to build positive working relationships that are based on trust and enhance both growth and learning. Nam's Karate has one of the best pricing plans around. They offer several different payment options and discounts based on the program you enroll in. After completing the white belt program, students have the opportunity to attend as many classes as they like, as they are scheduled at their campus. The time slots for these classes are numerous and fit most schedules. In addition to class opportunities, Nam's Karate offers monthly clinics and workshops to help students in breaking (boards are an additional cost, but the breaking clinic is free), sparring, weapon, sword work, one-step techniques, advanced belt requirements, and more. Other offerings to encourage students to grow include: Nam's Leadership Team, Academic Achievers Team, Kick to Excellence, NMAChampionships, Tiger Demo Team, and Dream Team (the competition team). These opportunities exist so students can grow not only in their martial arts training, but also in themselves. Nam's Karate is also an incredibly family-oriented environment. Students of all ages and all abilities are welcome and encouraged to train here. Families train together, often side by side in class. Each student's reason for training is different, but all students strive to and are encouraged to be their personal best. The Masters and Instructors actively engage with students and help them in both setting and meeting their goals. Students are challenged and pushed outside of their comfort zones in a way that encourages growth and brings about confidence. Nam's Karate focuses on and thrives on community and familial values. Affordable events exist throughout the year to promote and encourage students to spend time together and enjoy one another's company both inside and outside the Dojang. Students can take part in the summer day "kamp", an annual weekend retreat, lock-in style events, movie nights, picnics, and holiday parties. At Nam's Karate, students can expect to gain many skills, but some of the most important are for self-improvement and character development. Students at Nam's Karate are held accountable to being honest, self-disciplined, and respectful individuals. They are encouraged to perform their best in all of their daily undertakings. There are so many great things that I could continue to say about Nam's Karate, but I think you can tell that it is a positive environment...I think anyone considering trying out a karate program should give Nam's Karate a call.

Not only is PCC the most practical martial arts / self defense training you'll find in Pittsburgh,…read moreit's also super fun and a great value! David & crew will enlighten, push your limits, and leave you feeling better prepared for the unknown.

I wanted to share some of the highlights that explain why I think this karate school is great and…read moreworthy of consideration by anyone looking to pursue a martial arts education for themselves or their family. Nam's Karate has been in the Pittsburgh area since 1979. It is deeply established and rooted in the tradition, knowledge, and understanding of the art of Tang Soo Do. The Masters and Instructors are knowledgeable, personable, and driven. They take the time to work one-on-one with students and to build positive working relationships that are based on trust and enhance both growth and learning. Nam's Karate has one of the best pricing plans around. They offer several different payment options and discounts based on the program you enroll in. After completing the white belt program, students have the opportunity to attend as many classes as they like, as they are scheduled at their campus. The time slots for these classes are numerous and fit most schedules. In addition to class opportunities, Nam's Karate offers monthly clinics and workshops to help students in breaking (boards are an additional cost, but the breaking clinic is free), sparring, weapon, sword work, one-step techniques, advanced belt requirements, and more. Other offerings to encourage students to grow include: Nam's Leadership Team, Academic Achievers Team, Kick to Excellence, NMAChampionships, Tiger Demo Team, and Dream Team (the competition team). These opportunities exist so students can grow not only in their martial arts training, but also in themselves. Nam's Karate is also an incredibly family-oriented environment. Students of all ages and all abilities are welcome and encouraged to train here. Families train together, often side by side in class. Each student's reason for training is different, but all students strive to and are encouraged to be their personal best. The Masters and Instructors actively engage with students and help them in both setting and meeting their goals. Students are challenged and pushed outside of their comfort zones in a way that encourages growth and brings about confidence. Nam's Karate focuses on and thrives on community and familial values. Affordable events exist throughout the year to promote and encourage students to spend time together and enjoy one another's company both inside and outside the Dojang. Students can take part in the summer day "kamp", an annual weekend retreat, lock-in style events, movie nights, picnics, and holiday parties. At Nam's Karate, students can expect to gain many skills, but some of the most important are for self-improvement and character development. Students at Nam's Karate are held accountable to being honest, self-disciplined, and respectful individuals. They are encouraged to perform their best in all of their daily undertakings. There are so many great things that I could continue to say about Nam's Karate, but I think you can tell that it is a positive environment...I think anyone considering trying out a karate program should give Nam's Karate a call.

I purchased 2 36-month Black Belt programs (for me and my son) at Nam's Korean Karate School and…read morepaid in full at the time of signing a contract. This payment plan enticed me to save a significant amount of money on the program over time vs. other payment plan options which were presented. Two months later, due to unforeseen circumstances, I needed to move 500 miles away to a different state. Although the contract stated that no refunds would be given after 3 business days, they were willing to provide a partial refund. Unfortunately, it took several communication attempts and the amount offered was negligible, not reflective of their pricing structure, and presented as a final decision with no room for negotiation. Please note that at the time of this review, I am still unable to resolve this issue with the business. For those of you contemplating joining Nam's Korean Karate School (or any martial arts studio in this area), please learn from my experience. I suggest researching the 1997 Commonwealth Fisher v. Tiger Schulmann court case (argued in 2001) which ruled that these businesses are not required to comply with the Pennsylvania Health Club Act because they do not meet the definition of a health club ("a person, firm, corporation, organization, club or association engaged in the sale of memberships in a health spa, racquet club, figure salon, weight reduction center or other physical culture service enterprise offering facilities for the preservation, maintenance, encouragement or development of physical fitness or physical well-being.") The PA Health Club Act provides certain protections to consumers entering long-term contracts and can be found in its entirety online. It is my understanding that some martial arts studios in PA willingly comply even though they may not be required to by law. After all, the physical health benefits of martial arts are becoming increasingly well-documented, and "martial arts, such as karate," is specifically recommended as vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise for adults and children in the most recent (2008) Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans set forth by the US Department of Health and Human Services. Even at the time of writing this review, this business's own Yelp page (for the Mt. Lebanon location) lists "physical fitness" and "improving strength and flexibility" among the specialties it offers. If I had purchased a membership somewhere that elected to follow these regulations, then I would have received a fair refund under my circumstances (i.e., moving more than 25 additional miles away from the facility). Be a more informed consumer than I was. For example, as you shop around for a dojo, you may want to ask if they willingly comply with the Health Club Act. Or, if you have already entered a contract, you may want to find out whether the business is adequately bonded (which would protect you in case a business closed or filed for bankruptcy) - a question I wish I had asked prior to handing over a large sum of money. Otherwise, if you find yourself in a situation like mine, without sufficient consumer protection in this area, you may need to seek help from agencies like your credit card company, the Better Business Bureau, or office of the Attorney General. Please note that this review is solely based on my opinion that I have encountered poor customer service and unjust business practices in dealing with Nam's Korean Karate School. It is not related to the quality of instruction or environment. We only participated for 2 months, and while we were quite satisfied during that time, it was not a sufficient amount of time to provide a meaningful review on that aspect of their business. I hope this review helps others in making a well-informed decision about whether to enter into a contract with this business.

Sifu Daniels is an exceptional martial arts instructor. I had the privilege of training under him…read morefrom 1985 to 1990, and his teachings have had a lasting impact on my life. His skill, patience, and dedication to his students are unmatched. I hold him in the highest regard and deeply regret not being able to continue my training with him. Sifu Daniels is truly a master of his craft. I remember Sifu telling my class that we should not brag about our practice and if he ever heard that we were bragging (think Johnny Lawrence in the karate Kid 1) that he would take away our rights to wear of Fire Dragon School T-shirts. He would tell us to leave our egos in the glove compartment of the car when we got there. This really resonated with me. My brother thought it would be funny to grab me and put me in a bear hug, saying, "come on, let me see some of your stuff." I refused many times but he persisted and was taunting me. Finally, to get him to stop, I used a move that Sifu Daniels taught us in class and got out of the bear hug quite effortlessly, stunning my brother. He signed up for classes right after that and became a student of Sifu Daniels also. We eventually both had a good laugh about that time.

My son went to Young Brothers in Aspinwall for almost 10 years! He has earned his third degree…read moreblack belt. Over the time we were there, Mr. and Mrs. Master Norris were absolutely wonderful. They are consistent and professional while also being a lot of fun. My son's self confidence increased as he mastered the skills required to obtain each belt. They also emphasize being a good person with strong values. It was all around a very welcoming and positive experience for all of us!

A warm, family atmosphere with the perfect blend of discipline and fun. The instructors are…read morewonderful, both in their skill at martial arts and their care for their students and the community at large. The schools are fortunate to have hands-on involvement from 9th degree Grandmaster Kong in the curriculum and at testing. Students are taught respect and self-control as well as physical activity. I've been attending for five years total, and my kids for two. There are many families at the school, and it's a great activity to do together. In response to the other reviewer - this is my perspective as a student and parent: There are tests every 2 months for color belts and 6 months for black belts. There are intermediate steps between belts (stripes or patches) so students don't advance a full belt level each time. The frequency of testing helps to keep younger students motivated with a consistent progression. It's true that students do not often fail testing, but that is because they are not even allowed to attend a test until they have proven themselves ready for the next level. That said, belts must be earned and students can fail if they do not prepare. The testing fees and schedule are comparable to other martial arts schools, in my experience. Twice a year, Young Brothers holds an inter-school tournament to benefit charity. Its students have consistently performed well at both the regional US Open in West Virginia and the national US Open in Las Vegas. This school is a solid, traditional Tae Kwon Do experience.

Great classes for all ages! Join the club! Teacher is awesome with kids, give him a chance to show…read moreyou. Place is great, I take my kids there and I suggest you do the same. My son loves going there. Also women's self defense classes, awesome! Join the club of Shorin Ryu Karate Do International

Very friendly environment, the coach is a highly skilled black belt. Great teacher and numerous…read moreclass times to fit anyone's schedule.

My 15 year old Son has been taking private lessons with Chris for about 8 months and the changes…read moreare dramatic in both his skills and attitude.Chris is a certified Boxing Coach with an awesome demeanor, he knows how to relate to teenagers and get the most out of them. He is very flexible with his schedule as school work and other sports seasons come and go. The Owners are 2 of the nicest people you will meet and the gym is the cleanest workout facility you will ever walk into.