I can't say enough about Pro Edge. After visiting a few boxing gyms, I decided to give this one a…read morego--third time really was the charm. Walking into any gym can be intimidating, but from the moment I stepped in to get information, I felt genuinely welcomed. Unlike many gyms that immediately push you to sign up, the front desk staff took the time to explain their drop-in classes so you could try it out first. That alone spoke volumes. Each coach has their own unique coaching style and knows exactly when to push you and when to encourage you. That energy carries through the entire gym and creates a real sense of community. Even on your worst day, the members become your biggest cheerleaders. It's been two years now, and Pro Edge is more than just a gym--it's home.

Pro Edge Boxing & MMA is more than a gym, it's a family…read more When I first walked in, I wasn't sure what to expect. I hadn't boxed in years and just wanted to get back in shape. From day one, the coaches made me feel welcome and pushed me at the same time. Every class has great energy, and the mix of boxing, BJJ, and MMA keeps things interesting. What really stands out is the community. Nobody's trying to show off everyone helps each other, whether you're hitting mitts for the first time or preparing for your first fight. The coaches genuinely care about your progress and make you feel like part of the team. If you're looking for a place in Phoenix to train, get fit, and actually enjoy it, this is it. Joining Pro Edge has easily been one of the best decisions I've made for myself.

This bjj school has been around for a long time and rightfully so. They've got such a welcoming…read moreatmosphere that it makes it easy to keep coming in. If you're interested in the jiu jitsu, definitely come by.

Best jiu-jitsu dojo in the valley. Been training with these guys for years and it's always a…read morepositive experience. The people at the gym are cool, amazing instructors and plenty of mat space to have fun. Highly recommended!

100% recommend. Professional and kind staff and Professor Ryan is amazing! Great place to take your…read morekids.

Great place! The instructors are knowledgeable, supportive, and genuinely invested in your…read moreprogress. Clean facility, strong community, and a great place to grow both physically and mentally.

Our son has had the privilege of attending AKF for the last several years. Over that time he has…read moreloved the opportunity to learn, grow in confidence, and embrace the martial arts. Master Mullis is absolutely amazing and truly cares about each of his students. We can't speak highly enough about AKF.

I waited TWO years before writing this review. Our journey…read morewith AKF Blackbelt Academy began with something no parent ever wants to experience. My son transferred to Tavan Elementary School in the Scottsdale school district mid-year during the 4th grade. On his second day at school, he was attacked from behind with a full-on chokehold by very large student he did not know. He came home with broken skin from fingernail marks, bruising, and red handprints completely around his neck. And what did the school administration do about it? NOTHING! Their excuse? The attacker was "disadvantaged" and "has it rough at home." I was furious. I started searching for a martial arts school that could teach my son (a child who wasn't naturally athletic) self-defense skills. After a lot of research and a recommendation from a friend, we decided to try AKF Blackbelt Academy. The school is led by Grand Master Tim Mullis, who has over 40 years of experience teaching Kyuki-Do, a mixed martial art that blends techniques from Karate, Taekwondo, Judo, and Hapkido. This style is incredibly effective because it teaches students how to defend themselves both standing and on the ground. (BTW: ground fighting skills are important because 80% of street fights end up being fought on the ground.) Two years later, it's like someone waved a magic wand over my son. My once non-athletic child has become a strong, confident young man. He's physically fit, disciplined, respectful, focused in school, and bully-proof. His grades have improved, his posture and confidence have completely changed, and most importantly-- he loves going to karate class. If you live in the Arcadia, East Phoenix, or Old Town Scottsdale area and are looking for a place that not only teaches self-defense but also builds character, confidence, and resilience, this place gets my highest recommendation.

I was on a vacation trip to Scottsdale and dropped into a few academies to train Jiu Jitsu with…read morefolks in the area. I'm a Black belt with thirteen years on the mats, so I've been to many different locations over the years and have seen the good, the bad, and the ugly out there. Professor Ximenes was a relaxed, friendly guy and said, "Of course!" when I asked if he was amenable to me training with his 9 am class. No mat fee, no drama about uniform. Solid jiu jitsu instruction, which I'd expect given his competition pedigree. I got to roll with his students and with him. Again: no drama, no ego. An excellent class and a great start to my day. Thank you to Professor Ximenes and his students for welcoming a fellow jiujiteiro to their academy.

Absolute honor to train at Alliance bjj. It has been a life…read morechanging experience! My 7 year old son has been training bjj with Thiago for about a year, and I have been back in jiu jitsu at Alliance for a few months now. The training environment is awesome! Thiago and his team of coaches are great instructors. Their instructions are explained and demonstrated in detail for both adults and kids' classes. My son enjoys training at Alliance bjj! It has been great to see his personal development. The training environment is based off respect, kindness and hard work. I consider myself lucky to train with such a skilled instructor!

Awesome so far! Owner Alex has been terrific. Very nice, modern, practical class structure. It's…read moredefinitely worth a try for martial arts/ self defense classes.

Love doing Tai Chi with Sifu Kenny Perez. Great instructor and very knowledgeable about Tai Chi and…read morealso the Chinese culture.

Happy to give 5 stars to DMA and Sifu Perez…read more I have been attending Tai Chi classes at DMA for the past year and can say that it has been great experience. Ken Perez has deep understanding of Chinese martial arts and is able to help students of any ability level. The atmosphere at DMA center is pleasant and relaxed. Prices are very reasonable - workshops and private lessons available. Very glad I found this highly - regarded instructor, who is a member of ICMAC Hall of Fame (Senior Master).

Take the trial! You'll be hooked!…read more I have not had such personal attention from other 'sport' studios that my children have been involved in as I have had at Arizona Karate Academy. My 13 yr old son wanted to start a martial arts. After some research he wanted to try the 'trial' at Arizona Karate Academy. He was hooked after he first class. The first time the owner met us, he knew us by name, after having​ only spoken to us once by phone. Very impressed. The owner makes it a priority to know each student individually. The other senseis are also good, kind and personable, yet they teach us discipline and respect. They correct with encouragement and take the time to walk around and give individual pointers. Emily at the desk is very friendly, very helpful and patient with my family with our many questions. Plus AKA teaches life skills. Skills about confidence, respect hard work and perseverance. Things we all need, but I especially want my kids to learn. Now my 8 yr old son wants to join the same Karate studio and I'm considering it for myself.

AIKA is amazing! Not only have I learned how to defend myself, but I've learned how to be more…read moreconfident in myself. All of the Senseis are amazing and they teach me and inspire me every time I go to class. AIKA is like my second home and whenever I enter the dojo, all of my worries from the outside world go away. I highly recommend doing karate at Arizona Isshinryu Karate Academy!

Our family loves Wheeler Tae Kwon Do! This school offers so much more than the traditional…read morecurriculum, emphasizing practical self-defense skills and strategies, including avoiding unsafe situations. Mr. Wheeler has a great connection with kids, and as an example of practical self-defense skills, he teaches kids how to escape a stranger's grasp and coaches kids in how to deal with bullies and deescalate a physical altercation. No uniforms are required, and the school offers female-only and male-only classes. Mr. Wheeler also teaches adults, including a mom's class, weapons defense, and private lessons. This school is also very affordable!

We are big fans of Mr. Wheeler's self defense classes! He is a retired police officer who is…read morededicated to teaching people how to not be a victim. He offers self defense classes for both kids and adults and attendees learn skills to use in realistic situations. I'm a regular member of his mom's self defense class and can't recommend it enough. You can even bring your littles and let them hang out while you do the class. Mr. Wheeler is an amazing teacher who truly cares about his students.

Coach Grace is absolutely AMAZING! She is so attentive! She helps with form, breathing, & pushes…read moreyou! I did the hyrox workout with my friend who I'm doing the race with & Grace was so kind to answer all of our questions! Will definitely be back to take one of her classes again even though I struggled

Big fan so far of this gym! I have been attending the group fitness classes 3x per week and love…read morethem. The workouts are able to be done as hard or easy as you want and you leave drenched in sweat! The owners and staff and so welcoming and friendly!