A few years ago I was in the lowest spot mentally/emotionally. I weighed in the early 180s, so i had no energy for my son or family and i just didn't feel good about myself! Then one day i got an open house flyer from my sons elementary school to try a class for free, instantly i was interested but not for myself, i wanted to get our only son into a physical activity and personally martial arts hit home because as a kid i trained for years in karate with my dad. I thought for an only child this would give our son additional kid interaction, he would be away from todays technological world, and he is a little man filled with lots of energy, and to be honest i needed something to drain it a bit. So walking in my main focus was getting information on signing him up and hoping he would fall in love with martial arts as i did as a child. Well he loved the class, and was talking even more than normal with high energy about when he can next go back and all the things he wants to learn, now close to 3 years later he still leaves class with the same passion and excited chatter. During his years with Elite Force i have noticed leaps and bounds of improvement in his focus and discipline, and building of his self esteem! I can't wait to see his continued growth in martial arts and i know i will be one proud momma bear when i see him on that stage earning his black belt one day! :-) I was so impressed that day i went in with our son for the beginning of his martial arts journey that i ended up leaving joining him on that journey. This was one of those life changing decisions i made for myself and am so thankful that i now call Elite Force Martial Arts LHP family!! I am mentally/emotionally in the best spot i have been in over 10years, and now weigh in the low 130s and have enough energy to keep up smiling and having fun with my family :-) Elite Force Martial Arts has such inspiration and guidance all around you. All you have to do is show up, learn, sweat and have fun and you will succeed!! Hope to see you on the mats :-) read more

When my nephew was 6 years old he was extremely awkward in social settings and had a tendency to isolate himself from others. He didn't like when people gave him attention or praise and became easily frustrated when he couldn't do physical activities as easily as others. His complete refusal to participate in any athletic activity, whether in a group setting or one on one in the backyard, made me realize that help was needed. Luckily, that help came in the form of a promotional flyer from EFMA that was sent home in his school backpack. We took a trip to the dojo to check it out. Instructor Kim was the first person we met and she instantly made us feel welcomed. Kim wanted to know what brought us to the dojo and made me feel that Elite Force could help. More importantly, she convinced my nephew it was the right fit for him. That was April 2014. As of today, his punches are a little stronger, his kicks are a little higher, his voice a little louder, and all with better control and coordination. He doesn't mind being called on to demonstrate moves in class and sometimes raises his hand to volunteer. Remarkable growth was achieved during his White Belt to Purple Belt journey thanks to all the efforts made by the instructors. However, Purple Belt was a new division that came with new and more difficult moves to master. Setbacks happened, and self-confidence wavered, but because Shihan Haley, Sensei Melissa, Instructors Devon, Hons, & McDaniel's have all been tremendously effective in what they do, he has been able to slowly work through it. Their passion, positive energy, and determination are contagious. My nephew has come a long way and he will be testing this weekend for his Blue Belt. I am grateful that the Elite Force team is guiding him on his journey to Black Belt. Thank you! read more

We are very pleased and, indeed, honored to write a letter recommending Elite Force Martial Arts and their entire staff at the Elite Force Martial Arts in Lighthouse Point, Florida. They are truly special people who inhabit an exceptional place. When we first brought our sons Matthew and Christopher Elite Force Martial Arts , Christopher was an overwhelmed 3 year old who was struggling both socially and lacking discipline. At first, they didn't even want to start class because his overall attention span was very limited. When Elite first spoke to him, Christopher would not listen or follow most instructions. Now, just after 3 months they have started to follow and respond to instructions as much as could be expected from a now 4 year old. Matthew and Christopher walks into the Elite Force Martial Arts for class twice a week with a smile on their face. When the instructor asks them how they are doing, they respond, "Dynamic and powerfully, yes sir or yes maam!" Many of the most positive improvements in our sons can be traced directly back to the self-confidence and encouragement they received in Elite Force Martial Arts . The most amazing thing about our story is that it is not unique. There are hundreds of families, past and present, who could easily say that Elite's guidance has had as great an impact on their children as they have had on our sons. Elite Force Martial Arts is a small place of order, discipline, and peace in a large and often chaotic world. We are very grateful indeed that we were lucky enough to find our way to their door. Richard & Maryjane Cogswell read more

My oldest daughter doesn't have much time left in the Elite Dragon program (6 & under). She loves it and I love the changes I've seen in her since she started (Feb. 2015). The instructors are AMAZING-top-notch fantastic. The program covers so many aspects important to developing minds and bodies; respect, balance, control, confidence, self-discipline, coordination and so many, many more. As my oldest progresses into the junior program, I couldn't be happier that we chose to enroll her at Elite Force Martial Arts in Lighthouse Point. Her little sister is already anxious to start her own journey. I started training at Elite Force around March 2015. I LOVE it. The staff and students are super-friendly and awesome. I've made a bunch of new friends, which I haven't done in years. There's an atmosphere here that is so welcoming and super-positive. The adult classes are fantastic - difficult enough to be a great workout, but simple enough (at the beginner level anyway) that I'm not too confused or falling behind. My fitness, strength and endurance have improved considerably. Shihan and the Instructors are so encouraging and helpful. They always help you get it right, perfect technique or push a little harder. I highly and completely recommend Elite Force Martial Arts in Lighthouse Point for adults and especially the little ones! read more

My kids have been training at Elite Force for over six years. My 13 year old daughter has recently earned her send degree black belt and my 11 year old daughter is in cycle to earn her second degree black belt in March 2016. I have always loved the positive messaging and attitude of the staff, which feels more like family. My kids have learned self defense skills and sparring in addition to all of the other forms and weapons training offered there. I feel like the bigger take away is being surrounded by good people with positive attitudes and enforcing being a good person in and outside of the Dojo. Another big plus for me is the physical fitness (they need to also run for conditioning) and learning to take risks and get our of your comfort zone. Kids learn to set goals and come up with action plans to meet those goals. This good habit does translate in all aspects of your life. I have also joined the team and have been training for almost two years and I'm testing for my brown belt in October. I love training, and even though this is an individual sport, it really is team of great staff and peers on the mats. I highly recommend Elite Force Martial Arts. read more

If your looking for the very best in martial arts training, then EFMA is the place to get it. Shihan Craig Haley is a superb instructor who always takes your skills to the next level. Whether you are a beginner in a white belt or a skilled martial artist in a black belt he rises to the occasion to give you the best that he can give. Through the ten ranks (white to blackbelt), you will forge relationships that last a life time. I have never had the experiences that I have had like those at EFMA. I have been with them now for 8 years, hold the rank of 2nd degree black belt and would never train anywhere else. You could say I am a "lifer", why? Because the training that EFMA gives lasts a a lifetime. The skills, the drills all meant to give you the ability to defend yourself in the real world should the unfortunate situation arise. A black belt is a different breed and once you start training at EFMA you will see how the training you receive molds you into a better, more confident, more fit person not just in the dojo but in all areas of your life. read more

I have always admired the discipline and respect that martial arts brings to your life and because of that, I signed up my children, my daughter and my son, and after a year I decided to join the program and it has been a five - wonderful - year journey. The program has exceeded my expectations. It has also taught me fitness, made me more self-confident, it has shown me a better way to react to situations, both personally and professionally. As a result, I have gained strength, not only physically but also emotionally. I have lost 50 lbs. and I am in the best shape I have ever been in my life and I feel significantly stronger. It is wonderful to be a part of this team because I feel that like in a big family, there is support, there is friendship and there is mutual respect. I encourage anyone that has thought about joining the program, to try it, and as with all great things in life, it will always challenge you, but with consistency, good attitude and dedication, it will change your life the way it did mine. Thank you!! read more

One of the best decisions I've made in my life is going to a free trial class at Elite Force. When I officially signed up I didn't really have expectations. I wanted to punch some stuff and kick some things. I pretty much wanted to relieve some stress by hitting stuff! I quickly realized the dojo is more than just a place to hit things. The dojo is a place where you let go and learn. Yes, you learn a lot of physical skills, but the mental skills I've learned are what have truly helped me most. The people at the dojo have pushed me to become mentally strong. They've sparked this drive in me to motivate myself in every aspect of my life. From laundry to lunch, from work to sleeping habits, from being a good pad holder to being a good person. I can see it, believe it, and achieve it. I am motivated. I am dedicated. I'm on a quest to be my best. It's all thanks to the team at Elite Force Martial Arts. read more

My son started almost 2 months ago.. I have always tried to keep him in sports and active.. I put him in football thinking it would be good for his anger issues he had going on and that didn't go well at all! I spoke to my son's counselor how to handle his anger and what activity we could try and she recommended karate/martial arts and I'm always down to try anything.. I spoke to the amazing Shihan Haley and he made me feel so comfortable we went for a trial and I knew right then and there this is what we both needed.. After a week my son found himself in a situation that got him into trouble and Shihan sat down and talked with both of us, he made such an impact on Dominic I haven't had issues like this again! I really can't thank you enough for all the positive you have brought to our lives and what a difference I see in my son! Again I am so thankful for all you do for our community! read more

When Zack began at Elite Force I wasn't just looking for him to learn how to fight or karate forms. I wanted him to be part of something bigger by learning life skills, building confidence and learning how to defend himself when required. Elite Force offers all this and more. The family atmosphere is incredible, you make friends for life in and outside of the dojo. Their focus is bigger than karate, it's how they can work with you to develop your son/daughter into best person they can be. It's seems like yesterday Zack was a shy white belt. Now he has more confidence, raises his hands to demonstrate what he has learned in front of the class, and even volunteered to be on stage for the black belt spectacular which was a huge step for him. Elite Force has the most amazing instructors...thank you all for the attention and support you give Zack! read more

My husband and I have been sending our children to Elite Force Martial Arts for about a year now. Our son who is 6 and our daughter who is 9 started as beginners. As parents we believed joining would help them both with confidence, self esteem, respect and teach them good general discipline tactics. The results up to this point have exceeded our expectations. We cannot say enough about Elite Force Martial Arts. Shihan Craig and Sensei Melissa along with their amazing staff have helped both my kids with their defense techniques as well as teaching them all the above mentioned we had hoped for along with lifelong skills they will incorporate throughout their lives. We are very thankful a program and establishment such as Elite Force Martial Arts exists. 5 stars to Elite Force Martial Arts, Craig, Melissa and the Entire Staff. read more

My son started at Elite Force Martial Arts a few years ago. It has made a world of difference in all aspects of his life. He has more confidence in himself, has more respect for others, and has become more physically fit through the training Elite Force provides. The teachers set goals for the classes to strive for and reinforce postive feedback to each individual when their goals are met The staff is all top notch and go out of their way to know each student personally, as well as boost their confidence and motivation daily. They also provide a great number of extra perks to the members including parents night out, and Anti-Bullying courses which are an extra benefit for us all. Don't forget to inquire about the private birthday parties.. They are full of fun and activities for all in a safe and secure setting. read more

Top Notch school, with Top Notch Instructors. As a consultant I get the chance to travel around the country and I never miss a chance to to take a class at the local martial arts school (beats staying in your hotel room). This was a good looking facility from the time I walked in. I was greeted and asked if I would like to take a free class. I told them I was only visiting just to see what they would say and they still invited me out on the floor. Everyone was very respectful and I had a great time training with their student. I'm not sure what style it was because we covered techniques that I clearly recognized from several different martial arts. Needless to say I highly recommend this school. If you live in this town then this is the place to go. read more

My son started lessons at Elite Force Martial Arts at age 8. At the time I signed him up, my purpose was for him to learn self discipline, confidence and a good physical workout routine. Fast forward to today, 4 years later, I couldn't be happier about my decision back then, it has been an investment in my child that has had a tenfold return! My child has developed a great sense of self-discipline and respect which has impacted his life at school and at home. Each time he advances to the next belt is like a tremendous boost of confidence and achievement. AND he looks forward to going to his class each time. If you're at all considering martial arts for yourself or your children, Elite force dojo is the place and I HIGHLY recommend there. read more

I started Martial Arts at Elite Force in Lighthouse Point in April 2010, with the encouragement of my daughter and grandchildren. Elite Force dojo is one of the most positive environments anyone could be around. Fast forward four and half years and I'm now a 1st degree Black Belt and I'm in the best shape physical and mentally I've ever been in my life. The encouragement from our Shihan and his staff, is the reason all the team members want to strive to be their very best. The team members at Elite Force have become some of the dearest friends, and they are extremely supportive of our accomplishments, and when our day is not going just right our Shihan is there to help put a smile on our face with his positive energy. Lynne Arlen read more

My 5 1/2 yr old son has been involved in karate at Elite Force Martial Arts for almost a year. He is doing so much better than when he first started. He recently performed on stage for their annual Black Belt Spectacular show and did great. Everyone at the dojo; Shihan Craig, Sensei Melissa, Miss Kim, Mr. McDaniel and Mr. Hon are all so wonderful with the kids in their progressions through each belt. My son really enjoys going to class and learning new techniques. I am glad to have my son be a part of a great team whose main focus is to do the best and be the best you can be all in a positive manner. :) read more

We enrolled our son at Elite Force several months before he started kindergarten to give him bully-prevention training, continue building his confidence and give him a great place to have fun with new friends. He has enjoyed the dojo from day 1 -- and we have seen him grow as an athlete and become even more well-rounded. Sensei Melissa and Shihan Craig, as well as the other professionals guiding the students, are exceptional at recognizing and encouraging the students in their strengths and building them up to improve each class. We would recommend Elite Force Martial Arts to anyone, young or old! read more

I've been a student at Elite Force Martial Arts for 6 years now and I'm loving every minute of it! I'm a 49 year old female and currently hold the rank of second degree black belt. Shihan Craig Haley has impacted my life in so many positive ways and he encourages his students to be the best that they can be! Under his guidance I have accomplished goals I never thought possible! He's an incredible instructor, coach, mentor and friend. Our "dojo family" has become an enormous part of my life and I am so blessed to have such fabulous people surrounding me. Thank you Elite Force Martial Arts!! read more

My daughter started training 4 years ago and is now a Black Belt. This has been a long journey but well worth it. The day she received her Black Belt she had such a sense of accomplishment and pride no parent could put a price on that. She has learned to set goals and achieve them. She has learned that if you want something you have to earn it. Her training of the mind and body has helped to achieve other goals. The mental training has made her a better student and more focused on her goals in school. I have only been a Karate mom but I have made friendships with some great people. * * * read more