Sensei Justin has been absolutely incredible for our daughter. She is naturally very shy, and we…read morewanted to find something that would help her build confidence and come out of her shell. She had the option to choose from five different activities, and she chose karate. We were already so proud of her for making that brave decision, and finding Sensei Justin made it even more meaningful. From day one, you can tell he truly cares about each child individually. He takes the time to connect with them, encourage them, and tailor his lessons so every child feels included and capable. His positive and patient approach has made such a difference, and it has been amazing watching our daughter grow more confident with each class. We genuinely could not have found a better sensei. We are so grateful for the environment he creates and the impact he is having on these kids, not just teaching karate, but helping them believe in themselves.

Sensei Justin is doing a wonderful job with his kids and classes. He keeps the class fun but they…read moreare all learning and doing lots of activity too. If you're looking for a karate-based martial art school for your kiddo, I highly recommend.

Bill Stevens Karate is an excellent place for kids and adults to learn martial arts. My daughter…read moreand son have been coming here for quite some time. I also attend BJJ classes here. This family/community-oriented place teaches martial arts while reinforcing life lessons (ex., confidence, positive attitude, humility, etc.). There are many reasons why my wife and I chose this place. We chose this place primarily because Master Bill Stevens and his staff are great. They keep kids continuously engaged throughout each lesson. Another big plus is that his schedule is flexible, and he offers a wide variety of class times, which makes it easier for my wife and me to schedule lessons, given our busy schedules. Aside from this, I like the location, the app, and the place is clean. He periodically hosts Game Night on Friday, allowing my wife and me to grab dinner without the kids. Lastly, Bill is easy to work with and talk to if something unexpected arises. I recommend you check it out.

Bill the owner and Sensei is an amazing teacher and human being! He is very honest with his…read moreteaching and works with everyone on a personal level. If I could give more than 5 starts, I would. By far, the best Karate school in the area.

When we moved to New Jersey, I was looking for a sport that would help build confidence and…read morediscipline in my son who's not the traditional athletic type. Definitely found it at Shido-Kan Karate. Sensei Mitch is tough in a way that makes kids feel proud and accomplished when they get things right--and determined to work harder when they get things wrong. Not going to lie, he's very tough! I was wondering if my sensitive, emotional son could handle the critiques. Not only can he handle it, but he's shown immense personal growth in learning to navigate challenges and raise expectations. He leaves every class feeling stronger. I also think it's helped him to deal with some bullying at school. I'm very happy he's sticking with karate at Shido-Kan.

I was at Shidokan of Mahwah from 2013 to 2016…read more I've watched numerous patents pull their children from this class due to Mitch's flagrant disregard for his students. His methods of "building character" were irresponsible at best. These methods often included stopping class to yell cutting, wildly personal insults to children as young as five and children with disabilities, disregarding injuries, and manipulating students into attending class regardless of their illness or other obligations. For over two years I brought the kid I used to watch home from Mitch's karate classes only to watch him be pinned against other students who are five ranks above him when sparring as a punishment. Naturally, when he was hurt from the fight, Mitch repeatedly called him a "girl" in front of other, incredible female students. This was wildly inappropriate, and what message does that send to the female students? Mitch's teaching became so poor that parents began videotaping the class. He, in fact, had legal action threatened by a parent who had removed their child from class after deplorable treatment from Mitch. Eventually, Mitch had treated the kid I watched so poorly during class that he was inconsolable, and was gearing up fight another much more experienced student as a punishment. I was so upset I couldn't even look at Mitch, and took the kid out to calm down in the car, and went back for his things so he would never have to go back inside. I learned upon going back that someone had said I may have taken him out to treat his asthma, after Mitch continued to delay claas in order to berate a seven year old. Mitch responded with something to the effect of,"Oh wah, the little baby needs his inhaler? If his asthma is so bad, he shouldn't be doing karate!" This was related to me by another parent and a student. After I told his mom I was not comfortable bringing him back, she mentioned that others had voiced concerns about Mitch's behavior in class. She spoke to Mitch via phone, who was caught in several lies and became incredibly defensive, calling her repeatedly over the next few days. None of us have gone back since, and I wouldn't take a child there if he payed me to.

Our two boys and one daughter have been taught by Master Joe for over 4 years now, and they all…read morehave increased focus, confidence, and determination. These skills have helped them at school and at home. We highly recommend Hong Ik, and particularly Master Joe, who knows how to instill discipline while maintaining a fun and entertaining environment.

Master Joe is an incredible teacher. My son has learn so much and his confidence and attention and…read morecoordination have improved greatly! I highly recommend!

I can't even get a call back to confirm our class and it's been over a week. I called a little over…read morea week ago to inquire about classes and was told a day and a time to come for a trial but that I would receive a call back to confirm. No call back. I called every day for more than a week and no one picks up the phone. Finally I spoke to someone who said the studio is closed all day until 4 pm, then there are classes happening and no one picks up the phone. He said it was very disorganized but promised I would receive a call back. The proposed day is tomorrow and still no call. I wish I would have had the opportunity to enroll my son, but it's probably for the best if you can't even get someone on the phone. I can't imagine trusting my child with a studio you can't even get in touch with.

This place is AWESOME! My daughter loves it here. Master Smiere (sorry if I misspelled it) and his…read moreteam are patient and professional with the lil ones. They have fun but learn discipline which is exactly what we wanted. I would recommend this place for all age ranges.

Mayer's Karate and Fitness is a true class act when it comes to training their students, but…read moreespecially when training their students with special needs. The care they take and patience they have is second to none. This is the first activity my son has done that has lasted longer than 9 months. We are amazingly on year four and we couldn't be happier. I'm so happy I found Mayer's and its outstanding teachers. Exceptional. *****

Our son, who has special needs, has been taking classes at Mayer's Karate for the last ~6 years…read more While the studio is nice, clean & well maintained, we've stayed with the program because of the tremendous teaching staff. Mr. Mayer, Mr. Scielzo & Mr. Harris are fully committed to their students - the team has NOT changed over last 6 years. They each have 15+ years of experience working with children that have special needs. While the teachers allow all students to progress at their own pace, they also encourage the kids to get outside their comfort zone & become the best version of themselves. Throughout class, the instructors encourage themes including focus, listening to instructions & respecting each other. Classes are upbeat, positive & fun. There is also a sense of community at the studio, which deeply resonates with our family. Visit a class, watch a student pass their "belt test" or attend a tournament - it's a humbling experience & one which our family sincerely appreciates!

I have two teenage boys (a senior and a freshmen in high school) that have been training with…read moreSensei Mac since they were each about 4 years old. They are continuing their Shukokai journey at the Pearl River dojo, currently getting ready for a World Tournament in South Africa. Each of my boys has benefitted from their training with Sensei Mac in ways that every parent would want to have their child learn. Sensei Mac has given them the confidence and strength of character that they would not have had, if they were not exposed to his tutelage and the experiences the Kimura Shukokai Karate has exposed them to. While there may be other places in and near Pearl River, NY that teach martial arts, none can come close to providing the opportunity that is afforded by this internationally affiliated community that feels like family. Sensei Mac has developed many World Champions, of which my older son became one in 2012. Yet, I treasure that achievement less than the extended family attachment that my children have found in the Pearl River, NY dojo. As a parent, I could not recommend more the Shukokai Karate Center in Pearl River, NY to everyone - young and old.

The Mac Albus Shukokai Karate Center in Pearl River NY is something very special in the sea of…read moremartial arts centers. Grading of belts is earned by the student and there are no contracts. Regional and international competitions are available to all students ( every age group) with a very high success rate but mastering the art of Shukokai Karate is at the core of Shihan Mac's teaching style. It's a way of life as well as a great workout.