Thea is the absolute best martial arts experience you will get here in Birmingham. Topnotch and caring teachers!
Our Son has been enrolled at USA Martial Arts for the past 7 years. It has been an amazing experience! What we love about USA Martial Arts is how much passion they have for not only teaching Martial Arts, but for character development of their students. They teach the importance of respect, honesty, bravery, anti-bullying, the right kind of self-defense, what it means to be a team player, the importance of doing your best at school, taking care of your body and so much more! If you are looking for a place where your child can learn Martial Arts and self-development from instructors that treat them like family, then USA Martial Arts is hands-down the place to be. It is without a doubt, one of the best decisions we have made for our son.
I joined the adult Aikido program about 5 years ago and it has been amazing. The classes are fun, the instructors are attentive and kind, the other students are fantastic, and it makes me happy to be there. This environment is supportive and challenging, but not overwhelming. There are students who have been studying martial arts for years as well as new comers, like myself, who just wanted to try something different. I cant recommend it enough.
The instructors are great at explaining the techniques in martial arts, as well as teaching the importance of teamwork and becoming better as a person. Ive been here for about 3 years now, and this place has always had such a positive atmosphere. To anyone wanting to learn more about any type of martial art, I would definitely recommend you at least check this one out.
Our daughter has been at Bluff Park Dojo for almost 2 years and has absolutely loved it! We have been so impressed by how they not only care about her martial arts development, but also her development as a person. It is such an encouraging environment! We could not be more pleased!
We can not say enough about how much we love this dojo. The instruction is top notch and the life lessons are even better. The staff are great with kids and keep it challenging but fun.
USA Martial Arts is absolutely the best!!! My child started out participating in there Little Dragon Program, moved up over the years and is now a Red Belt working on his Qualifiers to become a Black Belt. Not only has he learned so many Self Defense skills but he has also gained an amazing amount of Life skills as well! Everyone there has been wonderful.
My 7 year old son has been training here for 2 years and has progressed very quickly in both character and martial arts. He has great teachers here. Ive been very pleased.
Our son began taking lessons at USA Martial Arts ago after another student recommended. We have been very happy with our experience so far. The instructors have extensive experience, are very patient, and are great role models for the students. Our child is learning martial arts skills, respect, and life skills through their training. Highly recommend this Dojo!!
I have been training here for almost a decade now. I joined when I was five, and when I singed up, I was just looking for a new form of physical activity. But it became so much more. The moment I walked in the door I fell in love with the place that has raised me as much as my real parents have. The people here are my family and I say that from the bottom of my heart. There are not enough stars that I could put on the instruction and curriculum here. Ten years later and Im still training and fighting hard. I am also in many of the above photos. Osu!
Absolutely love USA martial arts. Best of all, my child loves it. He wants to be there early to make sure he doesn’t miss a thing. They teach more than just Karate. They also teach values and lessons for success and focus, and it’s all done by caring instructors with excellent martial arts skills. Highly recommended.
I highly recommend USA Martial Arts to anyone looking for a great martial arts experience. The instructors are wonderful, teaching respect and responsibility in addition to martial arts. My boys can’t wait to go to class each week.
This karate school is such a gem! My two kids have been going for about three years, starting at age 5 and 8 (if I’m remembering right). The teachers are wonderful, and the approach is very focused on character development. They are consistent and deeply link the character lessons with the practice. My kids love it and have learned so much!
Our daughter has learned so much here! I am impressed every week by the patience that is shown by her instructors, the skills that she is acquiring, and the confidence that seeps into outside life. Thank you for all that you do!!!
I cannot recommend the Little Dragons program enough. The self-defense skills, discipline, respect, and overall confidence this program teaches young children is amazing. Examples of some skills Ive seen taught: how to escape if a stranger grabs you, how to address adults, the need to look others in the eye when speaking or listening, cleaning your room, falling so you will not hurt yourself, how to treat those around you, how to listen appropriately, counting in multiple languages, and when to speak. All of this is so patiently and kindly taught that the children have fun and immense respect for their senseis. As a parent, Im inspired by the straight forward teaching methods and have incorporated some of the ideas into our home. Other things: no hidden fees, small class sizes, personal interactions with the children and families, and a dojo that encourages building a community between the students, families, and school.
We love USA Martial Arts! It is our home away from home! My son is a better person because of the amazing program Mr. Keith provides!
This is a wonderful place with amazing instructors! They are so patient and positive and we have loved taking karate there!
My son has been here for a couple of years and we are very pleased with the instructors and the training he is receiving. Not only do they learn martial arts, but they also learn to be focused, work as a team and be the best you can be. Many life lessons have been taught and can be carried on to all aspects of life.
This is a great dojo if you’re looking for a easy going and no pressure atmosphere to learn martial arts. If you feel that martial arts is something you’re to old or out of shape, come by and try the Aikido classes. I started at 36 and my wife at 48 and that was 5 yrs ago. The only difference between a black belt and a white belt is the black belt keeps coming back.
My son was four (now five) when he started taking classes, after he told me that he wanted to learn karate. I can definitely say that I have seen some improvement in his ability to focus and pay attention. My daughter (eleven) is now taking classes as well. They both love and enjoy it. It is a great environment with fantastic teachers.
Instructors are very knowledgeable and patient with the students. We’ve been with the dojo for a little over a year and my son loves it!
We (my son) has been taking karate here for more than 2 years and I have never had a bad experience. I feel like they truly love my son. They are very encouraging and family-oriented. You will not be disappointed.
Great dojo. Excellent instructors, my 12 year old has been coming for several years and he loves it.
Is the best and is changing the life for my son Next year my four year old son will be in there also with his brother
USA Martial Arts is a great great place. Senseis are amazing and kids learn not only Martial arts but also discipline, respect and great values!!
Great place to train. The instructors are wonderful. Ive been training here for a year and some months and Id say it was one of the best choices I made in joining their ranks. I highly recommend this place to anyone looking to learn martial arts.
Great place! Everyone is so friendly and my son enjoys it very much
The instructors here are FANTASTIC. There are usually at least three instructors present for the kids, which typically results in 1 instructor for every 2-3 students! Every week they conclude with a fun game that reinforces the skills they are learning. This isnt a workout class like some others, they are learning GENUINE aikido and judo. I have told many friends about USA Martial Arts... we have tried several places and they are the best!!
Im not a parent of children that are students at this dojo, but I am the nanny of two children that have been at this dojo for at least a year now. I cant rave enough about the instructors and the lessons they teach these kids. Its more than just self-defense! They include a moral lesson each week, the value of respect and obedience of caregivers, and address issues such as bullying.
Over 4 years ago I began my study of Aikido to be supportive of my spouse, who I’m proud to say just earned his black belt. Not only have proven to myself your never to old to embark on a new journey, but I have formed fantastic friendships. Sensei teaches not only technique but respect & wisdom and how to incorporate martial arts in daily life. I totally recommend Bluff Park Dojo to everyone of any age.
Our son has been taking karate classes here for a little over a year now and we could not be happier. Sensei Keith and the other instructors are so good with the kids, especially the younger ones. Our sons confidence has soared since starting these classes. The thing we love the most is that it’s not just about karate here. It’s about discipline, respect and responsibility that trickles over into their home life. The way they behave in the dojo should be the same way they behave at home and Sensei holds them accountable. Would highly recommend them to anyone we know.
Great place for learning more than just the martial arts...lessons for life!
The best teachers for your child you can find!! I can’t express how pleased I am with them and what they teach my child, and it goes well passed karate and into morals and how to be a good person to others. Go for yourself to one class and you will see what I mean. I have not seen one child or parent that does not love this place and the people that are associated with it.
My son is enrolled in the Little Dragons program, and it is so much more than I had expected when we started a few months ago. The kids learn about responsibility, respect, and discipline in a caring and fun environment. Sensei McConkey and Sensei Hood are amazingly good at communicating with the young kids - they really bring out the best in each student and the kids have a blast. Its the perfect length for little ones also.
USA martial arts has been my home for 10 years now ands it’s built my character and made me who I am today, there isn’t a better program or training instructor to help in your training
My son loves the classes and the instructors. They really make learning martial arts fun! The perfect mix of fun and serious training. Would highly recommend!
We just love everything about the Bluff Park Dojo. The Senseis are fantastic at teaching to the student and not just the class. Our three children (8, 7, 4) are learning how to control both their bodies and minds. Being a part of such an organization has offered them responsibility, patience, and discipline. The tournaments are well run and super fun. We cannot recommend the dojo enough.
My son has been taking lessons at this dojo for the last three years, and we absolutely love it! The instructors are not only incredibly knowledgeable and skilled, but they are kind, engaging, and seek to make each child feel welcome and valued. Their goal is not just to improve each childs physical condition and knowledge of martial arts, but to help them become young men and women of character, integrity, and excellence in all they do.
Excellent place to study martial arts. Class sizes ensure you are able to receive individual instruction. Teachers are patient and super knowledgeable. Highly recommended!
We love this dojo. The instructors are amazing, great attention to detail and good class size!
Best instruction in Birmingham. My son has been a student for almost 6 years. The instructors are top notch in both martial arts and in their delivery of meaningful and lasting life skills. My son will continue to benefit from this experience.
We love everything about USA Martial Arts! Sensei MacConkey and Sensei Hood are not only amazing and well disciplined in their art, but are gracious and encouraging to me and my children in the program! Their skill and patience are a beauty to see. My girls look forward to class each week and cannot wait to share their accomplishments with their Senseis and friends. This program allows reiteration of awareness, discipline, and working as a team that I strive to teach my kids. As a homeschooling mom, having another supportive source that isn’t mom or dad has been so encouraging. Currently in the Little Dragons program and plan to be here for years to come!
I have been taking classes at this amazing dojo for more than 4 years and I love it! The instructors are good at educating people and are very nice. I love this place and plan on staying here.
We were not sure if our 4 year old daughter would be a good fit for karate....after all, she will only wear dresses, at all times, day and night. To top it off, she was the youngest in her class.Sensei MacConkey and Sensei Hood made her feel comfortable and continued to encourage her in every class. The weekly lessons to strengthen our daughters moral compass warm my heart. It feels like these instructors are on our team helping to develop our daughter to be the best she can be.I would highly recommend this dojo!!!
This is not the place where you just learn Martial Arts, This is the place where you develop your Inner Peace under the Guidance of Sinse MacConkey.
We LOVE USA Martial Arts! Their Little Dragons program is top notch. They balance martial arts with good character. Highly recommend them!
Children usually have one or two teachers who make a positive, long-lasting impact on their lives. I have a very strong feeling that Sensei MacConkey and his team will do that for my two children. At USA Martial Arts - Bluff Park Dojo, my children are learning much more than just excellent quality martial arts. They are also learning discipline, respect, self confidence, teamwork, self control, and many other beneficial personal qualities that will last a lifetime. If you are considering martial arts for yourself or your family, look no further than Bluff Park Dojo.
Great instructors. They really have the patients it takes to engage and control younger children. The instructors are very nice. You will not be disappointed if your child goes here. Awesome training.
Our family loves USA Martial Arts! Our girls started as soon as they turned 4 and have learned so much, self- confidence, manners, what to do in scary situations or if ever bullied. Sensei MacConkey is a great mentor and our girls never want to miss a class!
Enrolling my son in the Little Dragons program at USA Martial Arts Bluff Park Dojo is one of the best decisions weve made. Not only does he love going and working toward a goal (belts and stripes for behavior in the Little Dragons program), it has also helped him become more self controlled, focused while listening, and respectful of those around him. Senseis MacConkey and Hood are excellent and patient teachers and I love the ethics and moral lessons they incorporate into the class each week. They expect the students to be attentive and respectful, and I can see how their guidance is helping my son develop into a more disciplined student at the dojo and at his regular school. They also have a lot of fun! My son loves the exercises, skills, and games they plan each week and he is always excited to go. He enjoys learning how to count and say some phrases in Japanese and Korean, as well. As a parent, I appreciate the lessons in self defense my son is learning. While we hope they will never be needed in real life scenarios, they are skills that are useful to know. We are very happy with our experience at this dojo and highly recommend it!
Bluff Park Dojo stands out with its authentic, dynamic, purposeful and joyful programs. As an owner and director of a dance institute, I sought a dojo in Birmingham that would diversify my professional dancers’ experiences in movement through authentic Aikido training. Within a single conversation, it was evident to me that this dojo held the highest standards of excellence and integrity in its art. I immediately enrolled my two children in their Little Dragons program, which has dramatically impacted their life in many positive ways. I am grateful to the Sensei at Bluff Park Dojo for the influential role they have on my dancers and my children each and every day. Thank you!
My 6 year old tried other programs but this was the best fit for us. Very happy with the smaller class sizes and instruction. The staff have all been very patient and encouraging while teaching both martial arts & important life skills.
Awesome experience. We enrolled Lallie & Raleigh both within days of them turning 4yo. Raleigh just turned 6 and Lallie will be 8 in a few weeks. Sensei MacConkey has a knack for being able to interact with each student in a way that fits their individual strengths & weaknesses making sure to always lift them up in their endeavors. We strongly believe that bringing any child up with strong self-confidence and strong self-discipline are very important, but especially with young girls & women. We couldnt be happier or recommend USA Martial Arts more highly.
We are so pleased with our son’s experience at USA Martial Arts! We would highly recommend their program to other parents. Everyone is serious and committed to what they do, but at the same time they care about each of their students.
Our son has been taking martial arts here for 1 year, and it is absolutely the best dojo in the Birmingham area. He has previously taken karate at 2 other schools, one in the Birmingham area and the other in another state at a chain that also had a location in Birmingham. USA Martial Arts has been the best experience by far. Our son, who is a teenager, wanted more authentic martial arts instruction than his prior dojos. The instructors here definitely teach true martial arts, not just an exercise class. They are very skilled and patient. What we truly love is that they not only teach martial arts, but life lessons that will carry over to everything they do. We also love how welcoming everyone - instructors and other students - is to new students. We have been extremely happy with every aspect of our experience here, and highly recommend USA Martial Arts.
I have been taking classes here for almost 8 and a half years now and I could not be happier with this dojo. The environment is comfortable and welcoming and all the instructors are extremely nice. Sensei MacConkey is the best sensei anyone could possibly ask for. He has taught me courage, honour, confidence, self control, and so much more. I dont know where I would be without this dojo.
Definitely 5 a star rating and heres why:1. Kid friendly.The instructors, Sensei Keith and Sensei Wyatt, are awesome with the kids! Patient, kind, and good with small kids (we are in the Little Dragons Program). They gently redirect kids when they need to refocus in class and do it with ease. They know how to speak to little ones and meet them on their level.2. Communication. They are great at communicating with the parents. We get calendars and text updates when any changes occur, etc. Feedback: Every week, parents fill out a progress sheet and sensei gives a shout out to them at the end of practice when they get their new stripe. This makes my kid feel awesome because he gets to hear from someone outside of our family on how awesome he is. They are great role models for little ones in class. PS- my son got such a sweet shout out on his birthday from sensei in class. He was called upon many times in class to answer up and demonstrate new sills. This is just one example of how they recognize and encourage our kids. My son is one of the younger ones so it was nice to see him get recognized even though he was not the highest belt or most skilled in class.3. I like what I see happening at the dojo...Team spirit, kids interacting with their peers, lots of POSITIVITY, focus manners and answering up, and new skills/ techniques being taught each week. There is always emphasis placed on safety when learning new skills and practicing them. P.S. go online and read The Little Dragon Pledge. Kids are not just learning about a sport; they are learning and developing so much more than this. We have been involved for a approx a year and have no intentions on leaving. In fact, I feel like this is a sport we will stick with because of everyrhing my son gets out of it.Thanks to everyone at the dojo for all you guys do for our kids throughout the year. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to the staff, kids, and parents!!!
Bluff Park Dojo is an excellent place for children as well as adults to learn martial arts. The instructors are absolutely fabulous. I cant say enough about how much they have done for our daughter in the program. For children they not only teach a strong foundation in martial arts self-defense but also teach obedience, discipline, respect, and safety. It is a great place for physical -- as well as mental -- exercise and fitness. Also, the class sizes for instructor to student ratio are excellent.Watching our daughter grow in the program for a year also inspired my wife and I to join the adult program. If youre looking for a traditional martial arts dojo that teaches well rounded self-defense, I highly recommend USA Martial Arts. The dojo specializes in karate, tae kwon do, aikido, judo, and iaido. The instructors are extremely patient and work with you one-on-one. The environment is very welcoming and everyone (instructors and students) are all always willing to help others learn. I feel fortunate to have such an experienced group to learn from near where we live. Also, for adults it is a great outlet for fitness/exercise, de-stressing, mental focus, improving flexibility and balance (that includes work/life balance as well).The instructors are truly passionate about teaching. They love what they do, and it definitely shows. I cannot recommend Bluff Park Dojo enough.
I have been training at USAMA for 15 years. Best school in Alabama no question. Many different arts are taught here so a student can learn many different techniques.
Ok! I wanted to write this post since a while.This place is wonderful, and I believe it is the best place for your kids. My kid has been doing Martial Arts for two years now, the first year was in different place and we were going to quit because of them.But, since he started in US Martial Arts he changed so much. The sensei focuses with every single kid during the session. They make training in form of fun and kids really like it.Most importantly, every session they make an evaluation for the kid acts during the week. The parents used to tell the sensei how was the kid doing during the week so the sensei reward the kid. My kid really cares about it, he started to clean his room and taking care of his brothers.If you want to teach your kids Martial arts and you are in Birmingham, do not go anywhere else. I have tried many and they are the best of the best.
The Little Dragons program has been great for our family. My son and daughter love their class- a great combination of physical fitness, life skills and fun.
Our family highly recommends this Dojo to anyone who is interested in training in Martial Arts! We love the instructors who have been important parts of our children’s lives. There is a wonderful community feel to the dojo that only seems to grow as students progress through the ranks. The instructors have a gift for knowing when to challenge, encourage, work, and take time for fun/team building drills. It is obvious that they really care about their students!
My son and I attend classes here and it is a GREAT location to learn martial arts. From the instructors to the other students, everyone is welcoming and you feel like part of a family.
I have been taking my son to USA Martial Arts for almost 3 years. He is so motivated by the teachers and staff that he has decided that he, too, wants to become a black belt. This program emphasizes not only discipline, kindness, and respect in the dojo, but in every day life. I am so glad that we are a part of the USA Martial Arts family.Im just going to add to this... a year later I am still so tickled by this place.I cannot say enough wonderful things about USA Martial Arts. My son has been attending for over 4 years and I have seen him grow in his practice and as a little human as well. Keith, Wyatt and the rest of the team are patient, kind, thoughtful, diligent, tenacious and consistent... I cannot think of enough kind things to say about this place (and the people there). Becoming a part of our dojo family will be the best decision you make!
I first signed my son up for karate here in January of 2010, and at the time, I had no idea how life-changing that decision would be. Sensei Keith MacConkey has been a vital part of the lives of both of my children ever since -- instilling in them a sense of respect, hard work, attention to detail, and leadership. I cannot say enough great things about this place!
I’ve enjoyed my experience at USA Martial Arts. The instructors are friendly and positively encourage all students while teaching the fundamentals of the arts. All students receive special attention from the instructors during class.
Wonderful Dojo to grow your martial arts skills and your family. Sensei MacConkey offers multiple disciplines; Karate, Taekwondo, Iaido, Judo, and Aikido. Plus leadership skills, character development, confidence building, life coaching, nutritional guidance. A great place for the journey on the path to a better you!
We just started attending at the dojo, but on the first visit we were warmly welcomed all my questions were answered, and my son really enjoyed it. The teachers are very polite and from the three sessions we have been to, work so great with the children. They learn so much in the time they are there and enjoy it. We are looking forward to some great years ahead at this dojo and recommend it for sure!
USA Martial Arts is an amazing dojo with an incredibly talented and caring staff. My children have been there for 2 years and the classes at USA Martial Arts have given them an awesome amount of confidence and many great lessons learned. I can’t recommend them enough!
Youll get excellent instruction. More than that, youll get a community of kind hearted, caring people. I cant recommend this place enough.
A great program for students of all ages. Our son has been involved for years and its been a key part of his development as a young man. Cant say enough good things about the dojo, the instructors and the community surrounding this program.
Highly recommend. Excellent instruction. Our son has learned so much and his discipline at home has improved. The sensais are very patient, but at the same time really care about discipline. I see enrolling our son a few years ago as one of the best decisions we have done for him.....not to mention he really has a lot of fun with it. This has helped his confidence so much. The best thing is this is a private owned business. This is not a national Chain and your kid gets individual attention---and actually has to earn their results. The belts are not handed to them--they must earn them properly. I really like that....Our son earns what he does....Payment is handled very easily through direct debit. I love all of the extras such as the yearly family picnic, Night of the Ninja where the kids spend the night at the dojo, specialty workshops, and tournaments. Everything is always scheduled spot on and organization I would also give five stars!
USA Martial Arts has been a phenomenal for my son. We started as Little Dragons and he is now coming up to testing for his 6th rank advancement. The smaller class sizes are very beneficial. It allows them to get more individual trading. All of the Senseis are wonderful and deeply care for their students. They emphasize the whole With Great Power, Comes Great Responsibilty saying.
This dojo and its instructors have been a tremendous blessing to our family. Values, confidence, responsibility are all part of the culture of USA Martial Arts. We love our dojo!
Ive only been going to USA Martial Arts for a little less than a year, but I cant imagine not going already. Its an amazing school staffed by dedicated, caring and highly-skilled instructors. Attending Aikido and Karate/Taekwondo classes at the dojo is the highlight of my day, and I leave every night with a smile on my face having gotten a great workout and having spent time with the awesome students and teachers that make this school so unique. You will never regret choosing USA Martial Arts!
I cannot recommend this dojo highly enough for both children and adults! I began my training here in 2008 as a white-belt and have been here ever since.The teaching is excellent and the spirit of the place is one of kind confidence. Sensei MacConkey is great with the kids and teaches them discipline, respect and valuable martial arts skills. The adults get to have fun while getting in shape and learning practical self defense skills. Its a friendly and comfortable atmosphere - come join us!
We love USA Martial Arts! Their adult Aikido program is fantastic and our children have grown up in the junior program. From 4 year olds in Little Dragons through advanced juniors, our children have loved it. The teachers use positive reinforcement which builds self esteem and confidence while also teaching responsibility. The emphasis here is always on being a better person and treating others well. Can’t say enough wonderful things about Sensei and his team.
This is the finest dojo in Birmingham and if you are considering enrolling your son or daughter into a journey to master the discipline of karate....you must visit this very special place.For almost 5 years we have passed several other dojos that would have been easier with our busy schedules. It was never considered because of the environment at USA Martial Arts. Sensei MacConkey is the best instructor not just in martial arts but in the discipline of shaping young minds. The entire staff is dedicated and the school exposes their students to multiple forms of karate and judo. This one of a kind environment will become a big part of your child’s life and they will be better for it.
My son has taken from sensai for several years. The level of instruction is amazing. Plus the attention and care that sensai shows for his students is incredible. He encourages them to be their best selves and uses what he teaches them to be the best version of themselves. My son Jay is always complimented on his manners and that has everything to do with the respect and self discipline that sensai teaches his students. Sensai teaches the kids so much. Please consider USA martial arts for your child. You and your child will be better because of it.
I first began training at USA Martial Arts in 1992 under the instruction of Shehan Van Bushnell. The level of instruction was outstanding. Several years ago when Sensei Keith MacConkey took over the quality of instruction continued to be the highest there is. It seems the program just continues to improve every year. I can’t say enough good about USA Martial Arrs.
My son has been training for a year with Sensei MacConkey. He has learned so much during that time improving his listening skills, discipline, and of course skills in Aikido/Judo. He has so much fun his jealous younger sister also joined. Of course she is most excited to have a chance to practice throwing him!
Here we are 2 years later and this place is still doing a fantastic job with my boys. Not only are they learning karate but they are also learning self respect, respect for other, discipline and motivation. The instructors are dedicated to teaching with encouragement and praising for a job well done. We love USA Martial Arts and are thankful for this place!I have been very impressed with this dojo. I signed my son up here because my husband learned at the same dojo under a different instructor. But now after him taking just a few short months, I am blown away at what he has learned so far. Not only is he learning karate to be able to defend himself, but I am seeing respect for others that he is learning from his instructor as well. Best decision we have made reguarding a sport for our children.
My grandson has been taking Karate at the Bluff Park Dojo for five plus years. During that time I have taken him to almost every class from little dragons up to his purple belt. Sensei Keith and Sarah McKonkey are not only excellent instructors but excellent role models. Each class is well planned and the techniques that students are to learn are presented with enthusiasm and care. Classes begin with an organized warm up, moves to technique teaching and practice and ends with some very interesting and fun games. After that Sensei presents the message of the week and spends time talking to the class about topics that are important life lessons-- integrity, perseverance, goal setting and the need to work toward them, respect care and concern for their family and others. Above all Keith and Sarah care about their students and know all of them and their families by name. I do not know anything about other Karate Programs in Birmingham or elsewhere but I do know that the Bluff Park Dojo of United Martial Arts run by Keith and Sarah Mckonkey must be the best.
USA Martial Arts in Bluff Park is an amazing place! They offer a variety of martial arts disciplines including Karate/taekwondo, Aikido, Judo, and Iaido. The instructors are excellent in their knowledge and their techniques. Not only do they teach the martial forms, but also teach about the origins and history of the various arts. They are always welcoming and helpful and offer classes for children, teens and adults. I started in karate and now take aikido and Iaido there. I highly recommend this school.
Sensei Keith and staff are absolutely amazing with kids; we have a 6 year old son who attends the Bluff Park Dojo. The instructors blend education, entertainment, and discipline seamlessly. Highly recommend.
I do not think I can write enough to say how much our family loves USA Marital Arts! My son is 12 and has been attending USA Martial Arts since August 2015. Sensei MacConkey is truly a master teacher, in my opinion. He exhibits true love and concern for all of his students but also knows when to discipline correctly. I call it a praise sandwich. He will correct their mistakes but always surround it with praise for the things that are correct. He requires discipline and hard work, and his students know it. My son trusts Sensei and that makes me feel good as a parent. I trust him because he also surrounds himself with good instructors and helpers (students). His staff is truly top notch! My son NEVER wants to miss class. We will do anything to get him there even if it is calling friends when the car is broken down! I do not know how there could be a better place for my child than USA Martial Arts!UPDATE: I am updating my post to say that we are still extremely happy with my sons training at USA Martial Arts. My son has become a better young man because of Keith MacConkey. Do not delay in taking your child to this dojo!
Our daughter had a good experience here
Fun learning environment for all ages.
The best place ever