Shaolin American Self Defense Academy

3 months ago

SASDA is phenomenal, great leadership (truly experts), a welcoming community, and many experienced members interested in helping newer members train Kenpo techniques and principles.

11 months ago

I can highly recommend this school because of high standards and friendly atmosphere. My son adores studying karate here. All the senseis are very involved and love working with children, my child goes to every lesson with pleasure

2 years ago

So incredibly happy to have found this Dojo. Shaolin American Self Defense Academy is an excellent place to train in Kenpo Karate. The Senseis are true mentors and guides, each with an authentic and caring teaching style. My son is in the junior kids program and I am in the adult program, and we both have had a strong training experience geared towards our respective ages and learning styles. What is remarkable about this Dojo is the fine balance they have found of keeping the focus on the deeper training of the art, while also equipping students to feel confident and empowered in tournaments. We love this, as the focus is on mastery of Kenpo, with a collaborative, passionate, inspiring martial arts environment. It is not a competitive environment driven by external accolades, but the drive is understanding the depth, art and meditation inherent in the martial arts practice. The result of such training is a long-term love for Kenpo and inner confidence in self-defense practices. At the same time, what makes this Dojo special, is that they also train students to place at tournaments, through clarity of technique, confidence building, and detailed focus. It is the best of both worlds. My son recently participated in his first tournament and the focus and passion with which his Senseis prepared him was riveting to witness. They did this kindness and encouragement and a systemic approach that equipped him to enter this international tournament and hold his own. He placed 2nd in his category with lovely feedback from the judges. Through the process he learned great techniques for preparation and how to rise to the event. The Senseis all communicate with each other, enabling them to understand each individual students strength's and weakness to truly customize the training to blossom each individual. The program itself is very well structured to include both private instruction and multiple group classes each week, so students can take advantage of accelerating their growth based on how much time they wish to invest in their training. There is a lovely balance of discipline, focus, and welcoming warmth at the Dojo. The Sensei's are great and hilarious when relating to kids, with a balance of jokes and disciplined practice. With adults their program is welcoming to all levels, ages, and schedules, allowing individuals to move at the pace that is comfortable to them. In addition to their on-going classes they host numerous special events including Workshops and Masterclasses with guest instructors, Ninja Nights for the kids, a Fall weekend Kenpo retreat for adults, and participation in tournaments and demo teams. They also provide extra resources such as on-line zoom classes for private instruction, and have a dedicated YouTube channel that students can use to review forms and techniques.