From day 1 the communication has been fantastic. We have 3 kids enrolled and they all love it! They look forward to each class and I can already tell they are picking up important life skills (respect, patience and courtesy) after just a few weeks. Mr. Burt provides a comfortable atmosphere where the kids are expected to work hard but also have fun. Definitely would recommend if your kiddos are curious about karate. Lots of class times to fit around the busy parents schedule.

My son and I have been going to AKKA independence for about 7 months. We truly are a part of a family. The instructors are amazing. They take the time to work with you, and encourage you. My son and I look forward to class every week. It has been teaching my teenager confidence, how to set goals and achieve them, it’s making him stronger and it has given us time to bond together. Best money ever spent. I have done martial arts in the past, and this is by far the best place!

My family went to 3 different schools before we came across Tom Burt at AKKA Independence. We saw our kids get a max of 5 min per session at one place, due to overcrowding. Scare tactics like, stranger danger at another. And zero enthusiasm at the last. Tom Burt shows wisdom, excitement, and genuine interest in each of his students. He teaches kids, and adults alike that, while sometimes it is hard, the process makes you a more confident person. His ultimate goal, from my point of view, is to help make you the best person you can be. He and his teaching style are a real inspiration. I highly recommend Tom Burt and his school to all who are looking to learn a martial art, and to become a better more confident person.

I have over 25 years experience in martial arts. After moving into the area 10 months ago I immediately looked for a place to train. I choose AKKA in Independence. Mr Burt and everyone there have been fantastic. Mr. Burt is very professional and an expert at teaching at all levels. He is awesome with children and I feel that the AKKA system is one of the best I have worked with.

I am so grateful to Mr. Burt and Karate! Mr. Burt has always had an open door for me when I asked for help with Ray, even when it wasnt Karate related. He has taken his personal time to meet with Ray on Saturdays to prepare him for the Black Belt test. Karate has made Ray physically fit and taught him discipline, respect, and independence. I believe the lessons he learned from Mr. Burt and Karate will benefit him throughout his life. THANK YOU!

The discipline is very good. It is hard at first for the students to understand the movements and expectations being put in the back but as they progress and repeat the moves, it gets easier. We have seen a lot of growth in the past year. He is enjoying another activity more right now so we are going to focus on it.

This is a great place. Our son came today for his first visit, and the people running this place are wonderful. I look forward to years of happiness, structure, and learning.

Mr. Burt and assistant instructors at AKKA Karate Independence are deeply passionate and skilled in the training experience of Kenpo martial arts. Mr. Burt has decades of personal practice of the art and is a great communicator with his students sharing multiple insights of the movements and applications of this unique art. If truly interested in improving oneself and becoming proficient in self defense then Mr. Burt at AKKA Independence is definitely worth investigating.

AKKA Independence is a great, supportive place to work toward a black belt while learning life lessons such as the importance setting goals, commitment, perseverance and self-discipline. Mr. Burt is a patient, supportive sensei who wants to see each student excel and take the next step in karate and in life.

A while back I decided I needed to find some gentle form of exercise because I was getting creaky all over. Tai Chi is the answer for me. I found AKKA Karate offers classes and signed up. I usually go twice a week. Stuff happened last week and I ended up not going at all and was feeling like, well, you know. OLD. It was so good to be back in class today and my weatherman knees have stopped hurting.

Had my first introductory lesson in adult classes tonight. Years ago I took Taekwondo and wanted to get back into martial arts. This experience was so much better then what I did previously. Real work was put into the class and I left feeling like I just did a complete body workout! The instructor took time to show me what he wanted me to practice, checked in for questions and gave excellent guidance. After the class was over the owner sat down with me and asked about the class and checked to see if I thought it would be a great fit. Without hesitation I said I wanted to sign up. He took his time explaining their program, their expectations from me as a student, and full details about what I could expect. I really appreciate the time spent going over all the details and feel confident this was the right place to pick to learn martial arts. I highly recommend giving them a chance if you are considering martial arts!!

I have been training at AKKA for over 5 years now and it has definitely helped me grow as a person overall I love the environment and the sport Mr.Burt and the other instructors are the best and help me with whatever I need and push me to be the best me I possibly can without karate I’d honestly go crazy this isn’t coming from my parents or nothing on how good and amazing this school is this is coming from a 15 year old teenage girl who has put her blood sweat and tears into that dojo and it kicks my butt with the workouts and training but it’s so worth it I will be honest I have wanted to quit before but I go anyways and then I realize why I started going in the first place because I love it I love doing the katas learning the techniques sparring only now we stopped sparring because of covid but it’s still fun five years into it and it doesn’t get old I will admit I get like a rush when I have to do my techniques or kata because I like to do it perfect and show off or there’s days where I go to class I want to do my basics and techniques so well so whoever is looking can be like dang she’s good and I also ask myself if I tell someone I do karate how will they know if my karate is lazy and not good so it just motivates me to want to do better everyday in class and parents if your interested I recommend this school like hands down for me having to go to karate even on the days I don’t feel like it it’s like disciplining yourself because you have to go so definitely having that Discipline has helped me and my parents were strong on making me stay until I reached the belt of black belt but a year later after I got it I’m still here I also like how this schools belt system is real and actually makes the students earn there respected ranks because I haven’t found any other school or martial arts outside of this one that actually teaches you a good martial arts system where you have to work for your rank so saying your whatever belt rank actually means something and it takes 4 years to get your black belt in case anyone is wondering but yea I give AKKA karate USA five stars I love it !!

Where do i start?? Mr. Burt is one of the most generous person i could have met. I learned more than karate from him. Ill NEVER be able to repay him for what he did for me. It does my heart so much good to see he still is teaching and learning at i think the same place i learned in. Its been over 10 years since i moved to phoenix Im back now and hope to see you again Mr. Burt, but Im embarrassed and ashamed and not sure you would want to see me so out of shape. Well see. I had a fantastic experience learning from you. Thank you for helping me so long ago and all your students today. Best wishes always Mr. Burt from your old student Keith A. Sterling

Since beginning classes at AKKA, my sons confidence has grown. He enjoys the classes as Mr. Burt finds ways to sprinkle in humor and fun, while still providing an environment for learning. My daughter, though still too young to participate on the mat, has to get a fist bump from Mr. Burt after each class! It truly is a family environment that promotes positivity and community.

My son was so nervous but instantly felt at ease here! The classes are fun for both the kids and the parents watching. My son has been doing better in school and already feeling more confident in himself!

I honestly can’t even describe how elated I am to have found such an awesome program for my 4year old son. Mr. Burt does a great job teaching his students respect, self confidence, consideration of others, and so much more during each class. After the first class my son went home saying...“THE GOALS YOU SET....ARE THE GOALS YOU GET!”I’m beyond satisfied with the curriculum!

My nephew takes karate lessons here. He just turned 5 and is really advancing in the class. It is a safe environment that teaches self discipline and respect. Definitely worth it!

The greatest place to start your Martial arts journey! Welcoming to all ages and ability levels. AKKA quickly becomes a home away from home. Mr. Burt is a fabulous instructor for both kids and adults.

After neglecting my health for too long, AKKA is helping me reach my goals for a healthier lifestyle. The amazing staff has modified the workouts so that I can get the most out of myself. The students are great as well. I am getting stronger, more focused and higher energy levels than I have had in years. Thank you AKKA.

My son absolutely loves doing Karate here. This place is amazing! Mr. Burt is a great instructor! He has the perfect amount of structure and fun to create a fun environment but also learning discipline and respect each class.

My husband has been with AKKA for over 20+ years. We’ve seen his endurance, flexibility and strength have have a positive impact.We’ve recently start Tia Chi class together. Flexibility, memory and balance are just a few of the benefits, I’m experiencing.Now our granddaughter is a in junior karate and is loving it. I appreciate Mr. Burt’s instruction and emphasis on honor and moral values.

Ive been a student here for more than half of my life, earning a second degree black belt, cultivating friendships, and deepening a personal understanding of what it means to devote yourself to something, regardless of how difficult it may be at times, and the rewards that commitment bring with it. Mr. Burt is an astute and caring instructor, as interested in cultivating the philosophy of martial arts as the physical act of self-defense. I highly recommend this school for all, young and old, to begin your journey into self-discovery, discipline, and training.

Our family has been AKKA for almost a year and we love it. Thomas Burt is so good with the children and has been extremely impressive during the COVID-19 shutdown. Now, hes taking necessary precautions for us to get back in the dojo!

My son loves this place! He recognizes the songs and respects the instructor! He wont let me watch because he really wants to do his best. He feels if I watch he is doing it for me. He wants to do the best for himself and I respect that. The instructor gives me updates and always sends individualized emails and personal mail! Very respectful!

My son has been in Kenpo Kids for about a year now and he still loves it. Mr. Burt is not only positive and encouraging, but great at using discipline when it is needed. I have a lot of respect for they way he teaches!

I am very happy with AKKA Independence, after searching for what seemed for ever and visiting several schools one visit to this one and I knew this was the one for my son. I love the way Mr. Burt teaches and treats the students, he teaches them respect and discipline is playful but also stern when he needs to be. My son loves it here and I am overjoyed to see how he is starting to come out of his shell and have confidence in himself all thanks to you Mr. Burt

Training at AKKA for the last 4 years has been an honor and privilege. As I am preparing for my 1st Degree Black Belt test this upcoming weekend, and looking back over those past 4 years is a surreal thing because of how much I have grown, and a large part of that is due to Mr. Burt. When we train here it isnt just learning kicks and punches, we learn discipline, control, and self-confidence that just happens to look like kicks and punches. Being here has helped me to cultivate the attitude and mindset of who I want to be in life, and I wouldnt be the man I am today if I hadnt started at AKKA.

My kids both go to AKKA and so far we love it! Mr burt is great with the kids and very polite. Id Def recommend AKKA to anyone and everyone!

My 11 yr. Old grandson has recently started karate classes at AKKA. I am very impressed with the one on one classes and it has improved my grandsons confidence, self discipline and he always has a positive attitude after each classes. It is good exercise and training for him. I am very glad that I enrolled him at AKKA!! The instructor is excellent and I would recommend AKKA to everyone! Thanks Tom and to your fine assistants!!

Weve been so impressed with AKKA for our 5-yr-old foster son! Its heartwarming (and a little hilarious too!) to watch the kids absorb so eagerly the lessons in self-discipline and hard work! That character development piece is huge when selecting kids activities. It is a time and financial commitment for sure, but Mr. Burt has proven both flexible and fair in this regard. He truly wants to serve his students when he recognizes their potential!

My daughter has been training with AKKA for over a year and she has grown so much. She pushed me to start training as well and I have been here for almost a year now. Mr. Burt is a great instructor and takes time to help each student understand the material and pushes you to do your best. The best thing I have done for myself was to sign up with AKKA.

I love this place so much... Mr. Burt is a phenomenal teacher who is great with kids and adults alike. I’m a small woman who wanted to learn some self defense techniques... but as time goes on, I discover so much more about karate and it’s depths. This has turned my interest into a passion I deeply love. I’ve had the opportunity to attend many of the classes here... kick boxing, tai chi, karate... All of them are excellent and teachers always meet students exactly where they are, both mentally and physically. AKKA Independence is the perfect place for people of any age or gender who want to challenge themselves and grow.2018 updateI’m continuously impressed with this school and feel like I am always learning new things about myself along with the curriculum taught. It seems like karate is mostly thought of as a kids activity, but as an adult woman I can honestly say it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done for myself. I love the challenge and that I’m learning things that make me feel more confident and safe. Mr. Burt and the instructors here are very dedicated to the students. I can’t recommend this place enough.

Joining the AKKA Independence last year was one of the good things I did. In just less that one year I was able to get to know myself better, my potentials - what I could do and improve about myself, as well as facing my fears and disappointments and still be positive about them and look forward for a better version of me. I highly recommend this school. Mr. Burt has the knack to unlock his students’ abilities and encourage you for taking another step further.

Mr Burt does a fantastic job of keeping the kids focused, while making the lessons enjoyable for all ages. I would recommend this school for anyone who is interested in learning karate.

AKKA Independence is beyond awesome. My 10 year old daughter tried it out. On the way to the first class (which is free) she was in tears because she was so nervous. At the end of class that night she was smiling ear to ear. She is now a white belt and loves going to class. We have been going 2-3 nights a week for 2 months and from day one to now, shes more confident in her self, shes confident in her abilities, and loves showing big sis the moves shes learning with the AKKA team. My only regret is that we didnt start classes way sooner. Its never too late though! Thank you, AKKA!

AMAZING KARATE PLACE FOR ANY AGE KIDS AND ADULTS!!!🙌🏻💪🏻

The instructors are amazing! My son is 4 and they keep his attention while still making class fun. Taking karate has already helped his self confidence, his stamina, and his strength. He is proud of his achievements in karate and loves to show off his moves. I highly recommend AKKA karate in Independence!

I came across AKKA Karate and since day one my son and I have enjoyed it. He loves learning and I enjoy watching him learn. The environment is so positive and friendly. Not once has it crossed my mind that I was wasting my money on my son coming to AKKA. The instructors enjoy working with these kids and really know what they are doing. I would recommend this to my family and friends.

Its a good school. My teachers and the art have given me a lot in terms of helping me develop physically and as a person. I truthfully cannot imagine being a part of any other martial arts school after having been a part of it for 8 years.

I recommend AKKA Karate kenpo kids class in Independence! The instructors are knowledgeable. The classes are well planned and executed. Students are engaged and learning. Its a holistic program that teaches not only self defense, discipline, and self confidence, but other values such as cooperation and teamwork.

I have been in this system for 27 years. My daughter and grandson also study here. Master Burt is incredibly knowledgeable and a marvelous teacher. I would highly recommend this school to anyone.Phil Clark6th Degree Black Belt

We have been so impressed with the quality of teaching and care that goes into each class and making sure our children succeed in their rank advancements moving towards black belt. Though they are just starting their journey they receive quality instruction with a little bit of fun. Mr Burt is awesome socks and a born teacher! You can see his love for the sport and for the kids in all he does!

This is ak awesome school. Our family has 3 generations taking classes. I have seen a lot of change in my granddaughter in the year plus that she has been coming and hope to see the same changes in myself.

Best martial arts school in the area! Mr. Burt is awesome and genuinely enjoys teaching the kids. The kids and parents love him, he is funny, energetic, and a highly qualified martial artist himself. I found prices to be very fair because if you have the time your kid can go to as many classes as possible. Great exercise for kids and the invaluable skills they learn make positive changes for all the kids lives.

My son has been attending AKKA since last April. We couldnt be happier with Mr. Burt and all the instructors at AKKA. I am blown away with the constant respect and support that is given to my son and all the other students. We are so blessed to have Mr. Burt in my sons life. AKKA Independence is the BEST!!!!! The Henrys

We have been with AKKA in Independence for a little over two months. It is one of the most positive experiences we could have hoped for with our child. She has grown more confident and respectful ofin her life. I would highly recommend this place and this amazing staff to everyone. Some of the reviews say it is expensive but here you get what you pay for! The staff works with each student at THEIR own pace and makes it fun for them!

Going for my gold belt this Saturday. The instructors are outstanding. The people in classare encouraging, dedicated, push meto be better. But it is about way more than Martial Arts.... you will have to come visit to find out what that is.

My son loves this place! Mr. Burt is so great with the kids and all of the teachers are patient and kind. Not only has my son gotten stronger, but hes better able to focus and pay attention. I recommend this to anyone and everyone!

I have been a student of this school on and off since I was in 6th grade. I have known Master Burt for the majority of that time as well, from when he was a student to now the teacher. It is very much a family affair as my father and son are also students. Mr. Burt is awesome with kids and I highly recommend him to any parent looking for a good school. (He also teaches anti-bullying to the kids.)This school is not only about the rank promotions but about the learning experience. There is so much more to learn within AKKA than just techniques and katas. Not only does AKKA teach you self defense but it also teaches you confidence, patience, discipline, etc. This is a wonderful experience, that I would recommend to all ages and to EVERYONE in the family.

Im loving attending here. Until friends of mine convinced me to start attending because this dojo had trainers that were very aware of many different aspects necessary for martial arts, it had always been a Bucket List item for me. Now its turning into a reality with a detailed plan in place that Mr. Burt goes over with you from the beginning. Cant say enough good things about it!

Mr. Burt amazes me on how he gets to know every students name right away and strived to learn more about them. It is awesome to see how all of the instructors interact with the kids of all ages. My son really enjoys coming to class!

My daughter attends AKKA she absolutely loves it! I can see a change in her and I am so grateful to Tom Burt. He is so patient with her and is changing my daughters life! Great place why havent you joined?

My daughter has been attending AKKA Independence since she was 6 1/2 years old she is now 13. I have so much respect for this Martial Arts School and the instructors. Mr. Burt truly cares about each of his students and pushes them to grow and do their best. My daughter has gained so much self confidence from Marital Arts. She has learned to push herself and never give up on her dreams. I thank Mr.Burt and his team for pushing Mariana to her full potential!! She is a 1st Degree Jr. Black Belt which she got when she was 11 yrs old now December 2018 she will be testing for her 2nd Degree JR. Black Belt at 13yrs old. Hard work and dedication truly pay off!! AKKA independence is the best and will remain the best in Eastern Jackson County!! Thank you Mr. Burt for all you!!

Best school Ive been to in the area. I love the environment and the atmosphere. The weight room is a nice perk of admission too.

I started taking Wyatt to karate classes in response to his schools concerns for poor core strength. His strength has improved and he love going to class. Mr Burt is great with kids!

AKKA Independence is by far the best Karate school around. My kids have been going there for almost 2 years now and they have learned so much! Mr Burt is an amazing Instructor, his lessons are very effective and easy for the kids to learn. I recommend this place to all of my friends. We love AKKA Karate USA Independence

My grandson has been attending AKKA karate kempo kids for several months. He has gained so much confidence. Mr Burt is a great teacher!

Im really glad i found akka of independence to learn martial arts. They have a very large learning mat, a good size practice mat, a very nice workout room as well. The instructors are top notch. I will be going here for a long time.

A great place to learn martial arts, self-confidence and self-respect. The people are friendly. The instructors are personable and helpful. This studio is very family and kid friendly. Id recommend anyone looking for martial arts training to give the studio a call to get more information.

My 10 year old great Grandson (Ray) has been going to AKKA for about 2 years now and I must say in the beginning I thought he would want to quit after a while just because of getting tired of going but after this amount of time I can now see that he will never even entertain the thought of quitting. I can see that it is because of Mr. Burt and the other instructors. Ray has so much admiration for these people and he sees how strong he has become and he feels proud of every step along the way. Thank you Mr Burt, you have a special way about you . AKKA is the only place for us.

I have been training at akka Independence for two years so far, and I have loved the experiences and people I have gotten to meet on this journey. The workouts are tough and effective, and the instructors and staff are all very dedicated and knowledgeable, and very willing to help each student truly understand the material.The art of Martial Arts is definitely being cultivated at akka Independence. I have also attended the Fitness Martial Arts classes in the evenings and those workouts are so great! Wonderful school, 5 stars.

Mr. Burt and his staff are second to none. I couldnt be more satisfied with the training and interaction each session. I highly recommend visiting our Dojo, to see for yourself.

I’ve been training now for close to 14 years. The improvement in my conditioning, mental focus, spiritual health and wellness is obvious to me and those close to me. I’m excited to continue my journey towards 5th Degree Black Belt and beyond!

My 2 boys started taking lessons here about a month ago and they love it. The instructor does an amazing job motivating them and making them feel good about themselves. Both my sons have learned so much already and have shown improvement with their confidence, behavior, and self discipline. I feel that we are most certainly getting our moneys worth and are happy with every aspect of the classes so far.

Helped my husband regain confidence and strength after a major career injury. I carry the because I said I would cards with me and we all live a better life due to Mr. Burt & his instruction. Thank You, Sir!

I love the instructor. He is good and patient. It is a great fun way to work out.

Been with akka 30 years, akka fills in the cultural philosophical gaps common when you attempt to learn eastern systems in a western way. Family atmosphere appropriate for children and adults. A deep well of knowledge keep things interesting

My son loves this class and I am seeing him applying self discipline/control at home as well.

Mr. Burt is the best karate instructor. He is patient, kind, and uplifting to his students. He is the foremost example of respect and discipline.

My son Malachi has been going to AKKA since the summer of 2015 and he absolutely loves it. I have seen such a change in him since he started. When I first brought him he struggled with paying attention and seemed hyper. He was a sore loser and would cry and throw tantrums when he would lose or not get his way. Now he is very attentive and respectful and has a place to let out a lot of his hyper energy. He has grown so confident and is proud when he wins, but can accept loss with out becoming angry or crying. What it has done for him physically is amazing too. I can see the muscles developing in his legs and abs. I can see his punches and kicks getting better and better. It also makes me feel safe knowing he is learning how to protect and defend himself in the dangerous world we live in. Mr. Burt is absolutely amazing with the kids. He Co-authored a book BullyProof and also teaches the kids how to react in bully situations which is so important because kids and teens will be facing these challenges at school and in real life. My daughter Makayla is four and just started going last week with her brother. She is just overjoyed. Everyday she keeps asking when class is next! If you are looking for the best martial arts school in Independence and the KC area this school is it hands down!!!! AKKA has been such a blessing to my family.

Always wanted to do karate, but never took the opportunity until now that I am an adult!! My 16 year old son, 11 year old son, and myself are loving taking karate as a family at this karate school!! Our Quest: To Be Our Best...and eventually to obtain a Black Belt!! #thefamilywhokicktogethersticktogether :)

My daughter Mariana has been with the school since she was 6 years old. She is now almost 11 and is a 2nd degree Jr. Brown Belt. I am so impressed how far she has come. The instructors at Akka are great with kids and teach them more than just martial arts. I highly recommend this martial arts school. I am currently involved in the fitness martial arts class that is offered on Monday and Wednesday nights. It is a great workout and the instructor keeps us motivated to push ourselves to the next level and never to give up. Thanks AKKA for the great experience!!!!

Mr. Burt is the reason that that we joined this place. This place teaches karate as well as discipline. Highly recommended!!!

We started Karate January 2018. My then 3 year old had a hard time staying still and had never been in any type of class before. Needless to say, I was scared.. but Mr. Burt and his staff were very patient and understanding and worked closely to Damon to help him gain confidence. He even allows Helicopter moms like me on the mat to help out when my kid seems to be straying. Damon turned 4 in April, and since January, I can see the changes in his behavior, attention, and respect at home.Kenpo isnt just about the kids though- as a parent, I have taken some of the teachings at class and brought them home and incorporated them.Mr. Burt has a knack for making the class fun and interesting for the kids, respectful, and gives the kids opportunities to correct their mistakes. Kenpo Kids isnt just about the kids, however- As a parent, Mr. Burt and his teachings are making me a better parent. Being in Karate has been a positive change for both Damon and I, and Im so thankful to have found this place.

I was looking for a school to learn martial arts. I visited one other school and talked to two additional instructors. BUT when I spoke to Mr. Burt I knew that this was it. It has been and continues to be the best decision....

Great school. My children love everything about this place and Im very confident that my childrens self defense will protect them through life.

My 2 boys recently started classes at AKKA and they are loving it!!! As parents my husband and I are impressed at how the kids stay focused and are already motivated to do well, we look forward to seeing how far they go!

My 10 year old son has been attending AKKA since March of this year. It has been a wonderful experience. The instructors have been incredible with him, as well as all the other kids in his class. He has learned a tremendous amount in the time he has been attending. My sons ADHD clearly shines through during most of his classes and he forgets to focus at times, but all of the instructors have been amazing with him and help him work through to get better with his skills and his behavior. Hes learned so much about respect and kindness, hard work and persistence, which absolutely has come through at home. We love the school and the instructors!

My step son has been attending AKKA since august 30. he can tell you 1 karate move. AKKA also will not let us terminate lessons without paying for 2 months of lessons even by a court order saying the child will spend his summers with his dad (never been a issue where his dad asked until this year). Information is never fully or adequately passed down besides his annoying alert messages which i get even when he attends classes . I will never refer anyone to AKKA. Infact i will make it my mission to inform people of the FARCE this is.

My 4 year old boy has been a student at AKKA for about 4 months . He has learned so much in such a short amount of time ! Mr Burt is the best !! He is so patient with the kids and the classes are always so much fun . I highly recommend AKKA for young and old alike !

Mr. Burt is amazing at working with all kids but extra special at working with ADHD kids. He teaches amazing anti bullying techniques etc. Akka is Worth every penny.My sons attitude is even changing at home.

When I first came to AKKA to take Tai Chi classes I had no idea what I was getting myself into. Not only am I learning the steps of Tai Chi, but I am learning of the discipline, respect and confidence that Mr. Burt has established in this school. I am so glad I found AKKA! Thank you Mr. Burt!

I cant tell you how much I love having our son in akka with Mr. Burt and Mr. Harris as karate teachers. They are VERY patient men. They know when to show love, support, strength and most important guidance. The akka family has been very welcoming. All group ages and ethnicitys. Mr. Burt is VERY welcoming and always positive. My son has gained so much in these last 5 months. Hes still got a ways to go but man... I love the progress. And he LOVES going. He never complains. Never ask for a day to play. He has friends at akka and he gets to do something for himself. Once his brother is of age he will be joining. Thank you Mr. Burt for being the awesome person you are.

We stopped going after this review due to Mr. Burt not keeping personal information confidential. Coffee was great, thanks for incentivizing reviews. $5 Starbucks gift card for helping us out on Google and Facebook with a positive review!

I have trained in many styles and this is by far my favorite. Great style, great staff, and very fun student. Cant say enough.

AKKA Karate Independence is a very family orientated school offering so much for a potential student. My family’s journey first began with our son switching from a previous karate school, which in our opinion, was not offering our son what he signed up for. When we entered into AKKA Karate Independence, Mr. Burt offered a different approach to learning karate and our son soon thrived within his classes. He recently acquired his green belt and is looking forward to making it through his brown and black belts in the future! Our journey has continued for the past two years and now my husband (holding a purple belt), my daughter (holding an orange belt) our best friend (also holding an orange belt) and I (currently a white belt getting ready for my gold) have thrived at the school. The resources and time that Mr. Burt (Master instructor) and Mr. Peirce (Lead Instructor) have offered have been phenomenal. AKKA Karate Independence offers resources from their website (documents, blogs, newsletters, and much more), the Kempo karate manual, videos for each belt and much more to assist us in our journey. In addition, the times and days offered for working adults and families is flexible enough to offer steady times to attend class and also make up classes when/if needed to maintain our belt testing goals. I have said it before and I will continue to say it, if you choose a karate school in Independence, check AKKA Karate Independence out, you won’t need to look any farther! Finally, the aesthetic appeal from the school provides a calm and relaxing Asian inspired environment, where students are open to practice their Karate or Tai Chi.

Both my boys are in classes here, and they are doing great with confidence and respect at home since starting...... they really love karate and look forward to going to every class .

My daughter has been a student at AKKA since she was 4, starting in the Kenpo Kids class. Now a couple of belts into the Juniors class, she has already learned so much about fitness, treating others, and herself. She was even recognized at school for standing up against bullies, something that she learned at AKKA. The fact that she is learning techniques to protect herself gives me peace of mind as a parent. Mr. Burt has a special way of connecting with each of his students and we are so thankful to have him and this school.

My son and I are becoming the best versions of ourselves at AKKA Independence. Through the pandemic we attended virtual classes to help protect the more vulnerable members of our family. Mr Burt and his staff have encouraged us to improve ourselves physically, mentally and spiritually every step of the way.

My son is more disciplined since he started going to class

All the teachers are really nice and respectful! Really nice building and training! Really reco command it! Great exercise and karate!

My daughter loves this class. She had her first class last week and i saw her face light up, now she keeps asking when her next class is!!:) it is fun and structured, which is very ideal for kids!

Our daughter goes here and she loves it!!! Mr. Burt and Mr. Shirley are great at what they do!!!

Walking thru those wind-chimed doors over 2 yrs ago, I had no idea what to expect. At that time, I had already started down a path of bettering myself. Searching for an exercise outlet close to home, I came across something called fitness martial arts offered at AKKA. I always had an interest in kickboxing and this class tied that together with a great cardio workout. After a couple months of contemplating, I decided to give this venture a whirl. IT WAS EXACTLY WHAT I DID NOT KNOW I NEEDED. Also, the free trial 1st class was great for someone as indecisive as I am. Fitness martial arts has built up my strength, stamina and endurance; not to mention, it is a fantastic stress reliever. At 39 years old, Im in the best shape Ive ever been. *******Earlier this year, after some encouragement from Mr. Burt and others, I decided to start taking Karate in addition to FMA. Being a perfectionist, I had to fight thru the 1st month of frustration where I felt like I had no idea of what I was doing. Working beyond those personal battles, I begin to feel balance. While my FMA classes provided mainly physical benefits, I realized my Karate classes were beneficial to me mentally. They have offered clarity, confidence, peace, patience with myself, trust in myself, camaraderie and have helped with punctuality and goal setting.*******I am thankful for walking thru those doors and thankful for having Mr. Burt and crew serve as guides on my path! -Adrea

Amazing Karate School!Mr. Burt is amazing with the little guys and makes sure the kiddos have fun while practicing. Our little guy was hooked from the first class. Our family is SO THANKFUL we found such a great karate school. Our little guy is learning self decipline, confidence and how to control his body.I can not say enough about Mr. Burts school! Would reccomend a dozen times over again!EDIT: Since originally reviewing the school, I myself have since started taking Tai Chi. Tai Chi is helping me in SO many ways & Mr. Burt has allowed me to go at my own pace, without letting me get too comfortable. Tai chi has helped me feel more balanced and calm in my body and my mind! Everyone needs some Tai Chi in their lives.

I ENCOURAGE ANY PARENT TO COME AND TALK TO MISTER BURT, THIS IS A GREAT SCHOOL TO YOUR CHILD BUILD SOME CONFIDENCE AND THE SAME TIME TO MANAGE CONTROL, RESPECT AND HONESTY TO HAVE AWESOME SUCCESS IN LIFE, NO MATTER WHAT AGE I RECOMENDED TO EVERYONE TO COME BY AND ENJOY THE TRIAL CLASS.

Very very nice man and classes were knowledgeable, patient, has weights, tons of gear, will give you extra attention if need be

Friendly non judgemental atmosphere classes are fun and motivating I just got my first rank promotion and I can tell its done more than teach me self defense but has taught me alot about myself

My more than 20-year involvement in the AKKA community has been life-changer for me, and now three generations of our family. This community was a great place for us to grow in fitness and confidence, and become part of the martial arts tradition. Tom Burt is an excellent instructor. I have seen him work effectively with all ages - newcomers and experienced martial artists alike. Highly recommended.2018 update: In the past year, my wife and I joined the tai chi class. I had off and on tai chi instruction over my 26 years in kenpo, but my wife was new to it. We are both getting a great deal out of the twice-a-week class experience. It is exactly what we were wanting for a shared, long-term experience that enhances our balance, mobility, and energy. I continue to appreciate Mr. Burt’s approach to instructing both beginners and experienced students.

AKKA Karate has been awesome in my granddaughters life! I was so inspired I joined myself.