I consider it an honor and a privilege to be a student of Grandmaster Dong's teachings. I started…read moretaking classes because my daughter was, and I thought it might be good for my health and fitness. Initially, during my first class, I remember thinking, "nope, this is not for me!" I felt way too uncoordinated and clumsy to do any of it. But I was encouraged to hear from the other students that they felt that way at first too, but then they started to get the hang of it. And so I kept coming back and I got the hang of it too. Eventually, my husband, our daughter and I all earned our first-degree blacks belt from Grandmaster Dong's School. Our daughter got hers first, when she was 16. And the confidence she gained from her sticking it out, even when she didn't feel like it and accomplishing her goal--and honoring her commitment--was life-changing for her. I use what I've learned from my training in every day life. I have become much stronger and my balance is much improved, and I move around much more efficiently and am quick on my feet. My reflexes are faster. I have also had use my skills to actually defend myself recently, and I was able to do so effectively and automatically, without hesitation. Everyone needs to know how to defend themselves, especially women. But what I have gained from training goes far beyond the utility of self-defense. I'm stronger overall mentally and physically. One example is last summer-my husband and I decided to take a surfing lesson. He was 50 and I was 48. Surfing is not easy! It requires a significant amount of strength and stamina to pop up, balance and stand (or crouch) and actually stay upright and ride a wave. Well I was able to do it on my first attempt. If I had not been doing martial arts regularly, there's no way I would have been able to get myself up on the board at all, let alone remain upright all the way to the shore without breaking a hip. Unfortunately I wasn't able to do it again after that. Beginner's Luck? Most likely. But I know I definitely had the strength because of the years of training at Grandmaster Dong's. One of the best decisions I've ever made was to come here.

Both our son and daughter attend Dong's Karate. They have grown so much through these classes…read more There is not only an expectation to learn and understand the taekwondo forms and philosophy but to also become caring, empathic human beings, embrace discipline and build self-confidence. What a well rounded program.

great vibe - students were very welcoming and respectful to someone who doesn't train there on a…read moreregular basis Head instructor is very conscientious and very willing to help If you are looking for Gracie Combatives, Gracie Bullyproof or the Master Cycle curriculum , I would endorse this place without hesitation

Family friendly learning environment for the entire family. Self defense class for kids and adults.read more

Seven years ago, my daughter was begging to take karate. I had no idea what I was getting into, nor…read morewhat to expect. Seven years later, Ewell was instrumental in nurturing a shy 5 year old girl into a confident, respectful, champion of the underdog young lady. She is now a black belt that earned her belt honestly through hard work and determination. If you are looking for a quality program that feels like family, then look no further. If you want a school that expects you to earn your belts, then you have come to the right place. If you want a sensei that truly cares about their students, then you have found him at Kickstars.

My daughter has attended the school since she was 3. The instructor's are amazing. She loves the…read moreschool so much! They teach self discipline and implement a good work ethic. They also have a competition team as well. She is starting that this year. All the staff are friendly and knowledgeable. Love this place!

Mr. Burns is an amazing instructor. He is very passionate about having a quality program and has…read moreall the best qualities you you would hope for in a martial arts instructor. They have a nice facility, friendly staff, and a family friendly environment. I have trained in the martial arts for almost 15 years and see many schools and instructors and Mr. Burns is the real deal :) I hope you check the school out.

Mr. Burns and all the teachers are great. Even with all this craziness going on in the world they…read morestill make this a safe place to study martial arts. My kids and I love it here plus glad that it brings some normalcy in our daily routine. BRMAA helps with teaching my kids not only about self defense but how to also be responsible, respectful, caring, disciplined, and focused.

My boys have both been involved with the Harbour Pointe Grandmaster Dong's studio since they were 5…read moreyears old. They have learned so much from Master Dickens and benefitted tremendously from the principles that they have been taught in studio and it's application to their day to day life. Shannon

I really like this Martial arts school i have learned alot of new things. All of the instructors…read moreare really nice too and they have helped me with a lot of things. It has helped me with self discipline in my life outside of the school. Naysa

My dad's been coming here very consistently over past couple decades and really loves it. I've come…read moreon and off to kickboxing and self defense classes which are great. Very clean and respectful atmosphere. Kyoshi is Ana amazing person

From the owner: Competitive Edge Karate in Richmond, Virginia invites you to join our top-quality martial arts…read moreschool that takes you to new heights. We motivate and create discipline in our athletes so they become the best versions of themselves on and off the mat. Our karate classes use best practices and performance-based competition methods to ensure success. Martial arts training improves confidence, social skills, strength, and discipline. Start your journey of self-improvement through karate today.

FORMER STUDENT This…read moreplace is far more about money than martial arts. Advancement here has very little to do with skill, effort, or actual improvement. If you want to "grow," you have to pay -- for every single belt, test, and step forward. Progress feels locked behind a paywall. The owner shows little genuine interest in developing students' abilities. Instead of coaching, mentoring, or correcting technique in a meaningful way, the focus is constantly on the next fee, upgrade, or payment. It becomes clear very quickly that your value as a student is tied to how much you're willing to spend. Martial arts are supposed to teach discipline, humility, and growth. What I experienced here felt transactional, manipulative, and discouraging. Students who question the system or costs are brushed aside, while those who keep paying move forward regardless of actual skill. If you're looking for a school that truly invests in its students and prioritizes ability over profit, I would look elsewhere. This academy feels like a business first and a martial arts school second -- if at all.

Family environment nurturing leadership, ethics, morals, accountability, bonds and most importantly…read morediscipline. Coaches are the type to invite you into their own homes and treat you like their own family. Paired with a competitive environment forging grit, hardwork, teamwork, skill, and a passion for martial arts. Coaches and senior students are aware and confident enough in their ability to ensure a safe place, they also are aware in the students' abilities as well and keep a watchful eye. Firm enough to ensure your development and success in learning how to defend yourself. 10/10 would highly recommend

Judo Instructor Leo Valdes (3rd Dan) makes this place a must visit for judoka in RVAread more

My daughter was injured within 10 minutes of her first lesson, no warm up or stretching before…read morestarting class. I was promised a refund and it took over two months of phone calls and visits to the business to get it. Her medical bills were very expensive and she suffered for weeks in pain. The Owner / instructor was rude, and unprofessional. I'd recommend you go anywhere else but this place, especially if its a child your taking for instruction. If I could give it less than one star I absolutely would.