Honestly I cannot say enough good things about Fonseca Martial Arts. I enrolled my son for lessons…read moreabout a year ago when he was 6 years old. The transformation I have seen in him through his development in karate is nothing short of incredible. He's moved quickly through the program and has now moved into the intermediate level class. All of the instructors are phenomenal with the kids. The classes remain fun and age appropriate while still maintaining the discipline and respect that are the hallmarks of karate. My son participated in his very first "Dojo Duel" last spring and loved it. Dojo Duels are a fun introduction to competitive karate, allowing students to learn about competition in a very fun way. All the participants are recognized and receive medals, but they still recognize the top competitors in every age group as well. You can really go as far as you want with Fonseca. If you want to learn & compete at an international/Olympic level you can, as many Fonseca students compete on the world stage. John Fonseca himself is a legend in the sport and you will find him working in all the dojo locations and providing the students with his expertise. We love Sensei Dave at the Wilmette Dojo, he clearly cares about his students and really invests his time in their development. My son often arrives early or stays after class (by choice) because he is so eager to learn from him. He also has taken private lessons (again by his own request) so he can perform at his best in competition. He will be participating in another Dojo Duel this fall and then his first major competition, the Fonseca Cup. This place is the real deal, you will not regret sending your child.

We had been told for years to try Karate. Unfortunately, we listened to those who had not tried…read morebefore, thinking that it would bring out aggressive tendencies in our kids and that they'd be practicing in each other all the time. We wish we had not listened to these people. Fonseca has been such a wonderful oasis for my kids. Let's begin with the heart and soul of the program: the amazing Sensei's. These men and women are such wonderful role models. They are always supportive, energized, and keep the class moving. They focus on the importance of character foremost rather than the outcome. My kids happily go at least 2 times a week - which is a miracle in itself. They are in a class where there is a wide range of ages and skill levels but no one ever feel intimidated or embarrassed. They get a very intense workout, while having fun, making new friends, gaining coordination and confidence. If you've ever thought of having your kiddos try Karate, don't wait! Sign them up. You will not regret it.

Krav Maga Illinois is not just a fitness or self-defense space. It is truly a school - a place…read morewhere our children have grown, learned, and improved both inside and out. The teachers and staff are welcoming while also firm, experienced, and superbly knowledgeable. They know children and treat them with care and respect that makes you instantly care and respect them in return. We have tried other forms of self-defense; Krav is the only one where we have actually seen real-life circumstances and situations addressed in concrete, actionable ways from day one. It's hard, it can be intense, and it demands focus - just what we wanted for our children. I cannot more highly recommend KMI, not just for the activity itself, but for the community in which its taught (arguably more important than any other feature).

The training and support staff are top notch. Friendly and patient students that don't judge and…read morewill go out of their way to help you progress. The schedule should work for most people. Reasonable rates and the instruction you get and fitness you obtain is worth it! 10/10

Tracy's System of Kenpo Karate…read more 5 Stars for this intense, practical, streetwise, and effective self defense martial art. This traditional discipline is amazing. I have finally found something I am passionate about that does not fizzle out the deeper I get into it. On the contrary, the more time I devote to this art, the more my interest is stimulated. Not only do SDC offer very affordable private lessons and packages, but this includes UNLIMITED group classes Mon-Sat. This is particularly beneficial since you are not just learning a new technique and forgetting it, you are given the resources to practice it daily, if you wish. In my book, practice makes permanent not perfect. At places like this the instructor either makes or breaks the school....in this particular case, he makes it. Tim is extremely patient, well-disciplined, and honest. As a natural leader & teacher, he tailors his teaching style to your needs. He pays significant attention to detail and you quickly learn to do the same, which only perfects your skills in the art. However, be forewarned: This place is not for those with a craven character. We like to hit....hard.

I've been very happy with Self Defense Centers and I have been taking classes there for almost two…read moreyears. It's practical, hands-on self defense training that's based on Kenpo, a type of martial art. I'm not really in it for the martial art part -- I started taking classes there after I got mugged and was terrified of being on the street (or anywhere) alone. I think it's done a lot for my self-esteem because what you learn is *very* practical. You learn how to kick, deflect punches, elbow, etc. As a female I've always been reserved when it's come to using violence but Tim, the trainer, has taught me not to feel so "afraid" to do things, like kick some in the balls, when necessary. :) Tim is really good about making the one-on-one sessions best meet your needs so whatever it is that you're there for you are likely to get a lot out of the classes. I highly recommend this place if you're interested in actual martial arts classes or if you simply want to become more streetwise and develop basic self defense skills.

Great people and a great place, in their new home. The training they offer is second to none, and I…read morecouldn't be more happy with it. I drive 75 miles just to come here, specifically. You won't be disappointed!

Our Girl Scout troop had a great self defense class today by…read moreCulture of Safety! They were engaging, very thoughtful and our girls really enjoyed it. Definitely recommend!

Amy and Erin were amazing. They led twelve 8-9 year old Girl Scouts in an hour of self defense. I…read moreheard from almost every parent how much they loved it. Will definitely do again next year!!! So easy to work with and professional!

I've been training at Fit 2 Defend and it's been fantastic. The system is really effective, and the…read moreinstructor teaches structured series instead of just random moves every class. Great people, awesome rolls, and a positive environment overall! Highly recommend.

I love training here! Great training environment and high level instruction. Very welcoming toward…read morenewcomers and all levels of experience. Come check it out.

All I have to say is that Fonseca Martial Arts rocks! If you are looking for a great place for your…read morekids or yourself to train do not look any further! My son loves going and taking the classes and so do I. Professionalism, dedication and passion in everything they do! Keep up the good work guys!

Best teachers have left or are leaving; very sad. Was once a great place. 4 just left and looks…read morelike more on the way.

I'm literally posting this from the shower because I came into shower and noticed I left my…read moreunderwear from yesterday morning in the shower. 24 hours later it's exactly in the same spot I left it at. So I guess no one is cleaning the showers. I only use the handicap shower because it's the one that gets used the least but the other shower stalls are completely disgusting and smell really bad. I've also noticed a wet piece of toilet paper in the handicap stall that has been here since Wednesday, it's Friday morning let's see if it's still here on Monday. The staff says hi and bye in particular Derwin is very friendly so there's a reason to give blink fitness in Evanston one star and a second star because equipment is usually all in good working condition.

Clean. Lots of equipment. Nice staff. Lots of parking…read more Great pricing. Everyone puts their dumbells away