I always recommend people try out material arts. It teaches you about discipline, growth and…read moreself-defense. I did taekwondo when I was younger and stopped once I went to college. I decided to return as a way to move my body and found a community here!

It can be hard to find the right martial arts school for your kids. I looked for a long time to…read morefind the perfect place for my kids, the right amount of discipline, patience, and fun. I wanted a community for my kids. I got all of these things at this dojang. Master Kenji has been teaching my kids for over 10 years. He's an amazing teacher and coach. One of the first things he teaches a new student is to respect their parents. He doesn't just focus on Taekwondo technique; he strives to build the character of each student. He has coached my kids through local tournaments as well as state and national competitions. He takes the safety of the kids very seriously and makes it his top priority.

I really enjoyed Joanne's 6-week self defense class for women and highly recommend it! I…read moreappreciated that it was more than just the physical moves, but also how to verbally set boundaries (like saying no without apologizing!), and red flags to look for. Some of the info was a refresher, some brand new. I also appreciated that alternative moves were suggested, like for folks with bad knees, or the guidance for a woman using a cane. Everyone can benefit from this class! To answer the questions most people asked me: The class is kept to a small size, about 12 people. It's only for women, trans, and non-binary; no men. Folks in the class ranged from teen to 60s--I loved seeing mothers and daughters taking the class together. About half of the physical practice involved a punching bag dummy, and the other half involved hands-on practice with classmates, which was necessary, helpful, but also a bit awkward at times. But, I got over it, and got a lot out of it.

I loved taking Joanne's class. Each week, I learned something new! While the physical moves were…read moregreat to have under my belt, the cerebral lessons were just as helpful (i.e grooming behaviors, setting boundaries, how to say no). We had a small group so class was more conversational and we could ask questions anytime. I highly recommend Joanne's class if you're thinking about brushing up on your self defense skills or are not sure where to start! I now feel more confident out in the world after taking this course. Thank you for all that you do!

I'd like to provide context regarding the one-star review left by Wayne L several years ago. The…read moresituation stemmed from a referee call made by Coach Chris during a tournament that Wayne disagreed with. Believing his child had been treated unfairly, Wayne requested that Coach Chris review video footage he had recorded. Under USA Fencing rules and referee guidelines, referees are not permitted to review spectator video or reconsider calls based on such footage. The USA Fencing Referees' Handbook explicitly instructs officials not to engage with or consider video evidence provided by coaches, parents, or spectators, and to avoid post-call debate that could compromise impartiality. When repeatedly confronted with these requests, the appropriate and required response is to decline. During one of these exchanges, Coach Chris stated, "I don't care," meaning that he could not consider the existence of video footage--not that he does not care about fencing, the athletes, or his students. That statement has since been taken out of context. It is also important to note that Coach Chris serves in two distinct roles within the sport: as a referee and as a coach. When officiating, he is acting in his capacity as a USA Fencing referee and is required to remain neutral, impartial, and strictly compliant with officiating protocols, as outlined in the USA Fencing Referees' Handbook. His conduct while refereeing must remain separate from his responsibilities and relationships as a coach. The comment in question was made while he was officiating--not coaching--and should not be interpreted as reflective of his coaching philosophy or commitment to his athletes. Additionally, speaking from personal experience as a long-time fencer at the club, Coach Chris has been consistently supportive of my growth both on and off the strip. He has helped me work through mental challenges after difficult bouts, supported me through disappointing tournaments, and encouraged balance between fencing and school responsibilities. His guidance has extended beyond results and rankings, focusing instead on long-term development, resilience, and personal accountability. As such, this incident does not reflect the values, professionalism, or standards of the club.

Has both Eppe and foil, Epee fencing is hard to find, great place.read more

This is an amazing martial arts academy! I marvel at the family dynamics within this academy. My…read morekids have matured into young leaders of tomorrow thanks in large part because of Woodinville Martial Arts. Woodinville Martial Arts cares about not just you as a student but you as an individual. As an adult student, we have a great time. I have been gently pushed beyond what I thought, or what society felt, I could do and it has led me to push myself even more. If you are looking for a martial arts that will make you feel welcome and like you are part of the family then look no more...this is the place.

I started training at Woodinville Martial Arts in 1997. Having experience as a teacher, I found the…read morecurriculum at WMA to be very straight forward. You learn your hand techniques, foot techniques, forms, Weapon self defense/form, and self-defense. Everything is sequential and relevant to real world situations. The instructors and senior students are excellent instructors, encourage you to do your best, but most of all, very patient. They know that we all come to class with different skill sets, and they bring out the very best in each of us through encouragement , step by step instructions, and review. As with any skill, you observe, start slowly trying to repeat the motions, help each other through the learning process, realize the application of that technique, and then practice, practice and practice. Once you have demonstrated mastery of that skill, technique or form, you are encouraged to help others within the class. The classes are structured based on age. From children as young as 4(?) to students as old as 75 plus! We train in our groups and classes. Adults train together, Teens have their classes, Children have their own class times, etc... With in the classes, it is not uncommon to have students of similar belts work together to master their skills. We all are familiar with Martial Arts Schools who say they are Black Belt Schools, no mercy, that kind of stuff, but Woodinville Martial Arts is different. Every student has the opportunity to learn, to test, and to advance in ranking. The owners, who are also the instructors, know that people learn at different rates, and surprisingly, have lives outside of school. There is no pressure to test, but if you decide to do so, you will get all the help you need in order to reach your goals, I enjoyed training here so much, I enrolled my 6 year old son. He thoroughly loved it, and by the time he was a 9th grader, he was an experienced Black Belt! He got there before me! Having just retired from the Northshore School District as a classroom teacher (44 years), I know quality teaching when I see it. I have seen nothing but respect, and kindness from the Instructors and Senior Students toward all members of the school. From the training classes, testing, outside of school activities and friendships made, you will be hard pressed to find a Martial Arts school that is any better.

Grandmaster Kim and his Kwon Moo style is a rare find in the sea of martial arts schools…read more Grandmaster is all business when it comes to training and his black belt students reflect his ethos. Great family friendly environment, great instruction and great people.

I have trained with other hapkido instructors and The grandmaster's style here is like no other! He…read moreis the REALD DEAL! So discover the ability of this art yourself! Great to build your confidence to protect yourself and people you care about from harm! Everyones friendly and its a non intimidating environment so don't worry. You will be welcomed by everyone. You learn punching, twisting, throws, kicks, you name it!Grandmaster teaches you quality skill! He has a big area to fit many students in the class. The room has high quality zebra mats to practice on. When it comes to classes you have the opportunity to choose if you want to do morning, afternoon, or night classes so I am sure you will be able to come in and train!

love this place, my child has been going there for over 3 years now, the Sensei is great, really…read morefriendly and professional. We like the schedule because there's about 3 classes per day during the week so its nice for parents who work that take thier kids there or Adults that want to learn karate but can't go to the earlier class. I would highly recommend this karate establishment.

My son has been attending this dojo for about 5 months now and is doing very well. They have a…read moregreat Kinder Karate program which flows into their regular classes. The teachers all seem to have a great attitude and are dedicated.

My son and I have been going to Master Shin's Taekwondo for over 6 years now, and I am still a big…read morefan of Master Shin and his instructors. Master Shin has been obviously teaching Taekwondo for many years and his method of keeping it structured yet being flexible and fun for younger ones have been really awesome. We have scoped around many other Taekwondo places prior to joining 6 years ago, I can confidently say Master Shin's place is by far the best I found. Master Shin is kind and encouraging yet strict - keeps everyone on their toes to try their best. Best place for someone who wants the real deal.

Our daughter has been a student here for almost 2 years. Master Shin and his trainers have provided…read morea wonderful learning environment. Master Shin is the perfect balance of discipline and fun which makes this school easy to recommend

I started here in September of 2011. Everyone has been so patient and kind, positively encouraging…read moreme every step of the way. They truly are interested in seeing you succeed and learn. World class instruction. Classes for all from first timers to serious blacks belts.

I have a great admiration for this Dojo. I was a student around 4 or 5 years back and I must say,…read moreSensei Minakami SHIHAN is amazing. He is disciplined, strategic and very focused and sincere in his teachings. This is not a school that is there for a fad or just skimming over karate, Sensei really cares about his students and is deeply devoted to Karate. I was a blue belt, woman, but he did not differentiate between me or the brown or black belts. We were taught with the same diligence and respect. I remember I was even made to spar with brown/blue belts which increased my focus and confidence. Also, there were exercises at the end of class and all of us, were made to do those together. If I ever get back into Karate I will go back to this dojo. I wish more people could discern the difference between a mediocre teacher and a really sincere and devoted teacher like Sensei Minakami. Like others have said, they are not here to collect money but really are interested and sincere about imparting a good teaching in Karate. It is definitely worth going there and getting at least one lesson because that will give you a good idea of what this dojo is all about. I must also compare this dojo to the one I went to in Bothell which was horrible. Why? Because the Sensei (teacher) himself was very arrogant and harsh, even with kids. He was very brusque and you could tell that if you pushed him a bit he could get violent. I am glad I have experienced the previous dojo because that really put me off and I could appreciate Minakami even more. Especially as a woman, if you feel you intimidated, this is one dojo where you will be respected and not considered to be too "weak" for other tough exercises or katas. Sensei's daughter is also a black belt I believe so he has first hand experience with mentoring women.