Reviews

Premier Martial Arts teaches more than martial arts techniques – we empower our students and change lives. Hear from happy students and parents and see just how impactful martial arts can be in your life.

What a great family oriented Martial Arts studio!! The staff is knowledgeable and professional.
Tom Hale
Our seven year old son has been attending the Premier Martial Arts school in Mechanicsburg for approximately three years now and we are greatly pleased with the results. Not only does the training provide physical exercise but also self discipline and respect for others. His attitude and behavior has improved significantly. The school continually reinforces these behaviors while teaching them new self defense techniques. Anna Forster
Anya Forster
My daughter is going on two years. She has grown so much with her confidence and being loud every class!!!
Ke'eira Gomes
One of the best martial arts schools in Houston... in probably all of Texas. Top-notch people, a well-established & popular school that actually cares about the students and the community.
Ethan Reid
PMA ticks every single box for what a martial arts school should do. They teach discipline in the sense that students need to learn how to focus, and there is practical self defense that includes how to interact with the world so that fighting is a last resort. The instructors are always upbeat, and for small kids they emphasize more movement and focus (i.e., no wiggling or squirming while waiting). As students progress through the ranks and get older, the techniques get more advanced and fitness demands are increased, too. Students get to see their progress continuously through "stripe tests", increases in belt rank, and an end-of-year performance that includes every student. There are also classes outside of the usual class structure for those who want to be on a demonstration team, have graduated to advanced techniques, and who are close to completing a black belt. The school also ensures that *everyone* gets attention and time for training, including neurodivergent children and adults. The owner has spent a lot of time outside of class to support folks, and I've witnessed several kids over the last few years who have stuck with PMA for precisely that reason. I highly recommend checking out PMA! They run free classes for mothers in May and for fathers in June, too.
Scott McManus
This is the Best Martail Arts School ever! Very family oriented. They teach the kids the right skills and attributes through Martial Arts training. We are so proud to be a part of this PMA family - going on 4 years now.
Victoria Tianero Kingsley
My son Alejandro was scarred in the begining but now after 4 years he now loves to spar and has wants to continue growing in his karate goal to achieve his black belt. Great place for kids and adults to come, not only for physical activities but also to learn self defense and improve in their lives. The instructor is awesome and understands how not only an adult thinks but also he understands kids as well.
Frank
Premier Martial Arts West Arlington is honestly the best! Coach Tori works incredibly hard with the kids and pushes them to always give their best. I live within walking distance of another PMA location, but I choose to drive 15 minutes to come here because it’s that good! The facility is always clean, and I feel confident that I’m making a great investment in my child’s growth, confidence, and safety. My son absolutely loves coming here to train and has made so many great friends along the way. As a parent, there’s nothing better than finding a place where your child feels safe, supported, challenged, and excited to learn. Coach Tori and the team have created an environment where kids can build discipline, confidence, friendships, and skills that will benefit them far beyond the mat. The extra drive is absolutely worth it, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Premier Martial Arts West Arlington to any parent looking for an amazing place for their child to grow. We’re so grateful to be part of this community!
Elizabeth Bramlett
Master Eric and his staff are committed to bringing out the best in their students and having a high quality program. The staff are all professionally trained. They are great examples of what a martial artist should be.
Leah Fox
Our son just started here recently, and it has been a great experience! He was never super into sports, so we have been trying to find something that fit for him. He absolutely loved it here from the first intro class. He literally came running in the door to tell me about it when he got home, so my husband went back with him and signed him up right away. The instructors are patient, knowledgeable, kind and respectful. They teach skill and discipline in a positive way. We could not be more happy to have our son go here.
M C
We celebrated our son's 6th birthday party here and loved it! The kids and parents had a blast! Definitely recommend! Thank you so much Mr. Abraham and Mr. Adrian!
Andrea Ramirez
Second class that my kid has, loving the environment, the Senseis are amazing! Super recommended
Maria Y.
Al Garza’s Pemier Martial Arts brought their summer camp to our business (Pump It Up- Webster) for a field trip. I was very impressed with how organized and professional all of the staff is. They are a family run business, and I had the pleasure of meeting Cody, Al’s son who was leading the group. Truly a 1st class business. I would certainly trust them to take care of my children.
Christopher Graf
Thank God for good people good martial arts and good family what could be better
Kevin Hill
Awesome school and atmosphere. The instructors are acknowledge and caring.
Guy Goulet
This has been an amazing experience for Elijah and Mr. Nick is the absolute best! Thank you for all you do.
Carol Fletcher
Is an AWESOME martial arts school. They care for your child and they will teach them well. You will feel like home. My son is currently a brown belt L2 and is working hard towards his black belt and everything has been for Bryce Ligeti- Head instructor and owner and their excellent team of instructors. Enroll your child now, trust me, you won't regret it. Everyone is very professional and nice. They have uncompetitive prices.
Laura Vargas
Excellent school great people and very professional staff. Highly recommended
Ken Brayman
As a parent of three young kids trying to navigate my way through the parenting world- I’m always concerned for their safety and how to Make it a safer world for them…. But my biggest thing really is giving them the skills so that they can protect themselves.. We decided to try Premier Martial Arts after my friend kept telling me how amazing they are …. (She was right) We were given a trial- but to be completely honest- we didn’t need it. After the first 5 minutes of being there and after the first class finished. It was a done deal… this is the place where my kids need to be. They are ALL about SELF PROTECTION. They’re not just teaching our kids karate and self defense- they’re teaching our kids confidence- awareness- discipline- and the importance of protecting themselves and others. From the moment we walked in- sensei China was on top of it all- She did not miss a single detail. I brought along with me my brother and sister and their kids- and sensei China hooked us all up. We all joined on day 1… we didn’t need that trial. Sensei China’s communication and transparency left me with such a comfort, confidence, and ease. All of the sensei’s are truly incredible…. But we’ve had the pleasure of coming on days when Sensei Austin and Sensei Bobby are teaching. They have this incredible ability to teach respect- discipline- integrity- confidence- perseverance- and accountability… all while making the class FUNNN! Sense Austin’s charisma and enthusiasm and screaming “HIYA!!!!!” Actually makes me want to get up and start hitting some pads too…. My boys are younger and don’t have the best attention span- somehow the sensei’s keep them engaged the whole time…. They know when to push the kids- when to encourage them- and how to make them feel proud of themselves while still challenging them to grow. You can tell that they genuinely care about their students—not just as karate kids, but as people. It is such a family vibe there. I have also had the privilege and pleasure of getting to know the owner Kourtney, who is just such an incredibly kind- good person. Finding the right place- the right fit for your kids is a BIG deal… for us- this is undoubtedly the right fit. 10/10 recommend ! So crazy excited to follow my kiddos on this journey!!
Marina Bik-Arias
I cannot sing enough praises for Sensei Eric and Sensei Damon. These two are phenomenal teachers and mentors. They care so deeply for their students. Both in and out of the dojo. If you’re looking for a place for your kiddo to find a home — please come by and have a look at Premier. Truly love this dojo. And so does my daughter.
Erin Martin
We love the Al Garza and his amazing family. They have a great program and it is a great christian atmosphere.
Premier Martial Arts Wichita
The Positive Impact Sensei David Pantano And His Staff Has Had On My Kids Reaches Far Beyond His Dojo. It Reaches Their School Work, Their Sports, Anything That Involves Their Self Esteem And Self Confidence. They Make A Difference And Change Lives!
Lee Zim
Premiere Martial Arts provides an exceptional environment where children can enhance their physical fitness while developing essential self-defense skills. Sensei Antoine and Sensei James serve as outstanding mentors, offering inspiration and positive guidance to the students.... KIA!!!
Efraim Burdeinck
Attended a birthday party. The staff was well prepared and handed a large bunch of active kids! They had a lot of fun. The staff was really good-with about 20 kids, ages 8-ish to 12-ish. It was a fun party for all. ✨
Valerie Hedge
Our family loves PMA! Our daughters have gained significantly more confidence as well as important life skills in the time they have been enrolled, thanks to their instructors, Senseis Austin, Bobby and China. These instructors have truly created a positive and empowering atmosphere. They notice and praise growth and gains made in martial arts techniques as well as behavioral growth and gains in all students. They set out clear expectations and standards and regularly engage the students in conversations regarding what they are observing and encourage improvement where necessary. This gentle, yet direct and open dialogue would not be possible if the instructors had not worked hard to create individual bonds with each student first. Due to building this connection first, students are at ease in their learning environment, leading them to try new things, feel confident pushing their own limits, ask questions, make mistakes without fear of embarrassment, and persevere to attain their goals. Instructors also foster this bond among students and regularly empower not just higher-ranking belts, but all students to encourage, teach and help one another. This has allowed the environment to become one of community, caring and teamwork. Respect, integrity, honesty, and accountability for self and others have all been consistent themes on and off the mat. In addition to the ideal environment for physical and personal growth, the coaching and training of techniques employed incorporate “big picture” ideas of self-defense and easy to understand explanations and demonstrations. Instructors consistently take the time to explain why they are doing what they are doing and how techniques are applied in real life scenarios. When students understand the fundamental “why” of a certain move or technique, it is easier to remember and execute the “how”. We could not be happier to see the tremendous growth in our daughters since enrolling in PMA!
Kaitlin Jameson
My son has been attending this martial arts school for a while now, and the progress he has made has been incredible. Not only has he learned valuable skills and techniques, but the biggest change has been in his self‑discipline. He has become more focused, responsible, and confident—both inside and outside the dojo. The instructors are patient, encouraging, and truly dedicated to helping each student grow at their own pace. They create a positive environment where kids feel motivated to push themselves and take pride in their achievements. I’m very grateful for the impact this school has had on my son. If you’re looking for a place that teaches martial arts while also building character, discipline, and confidence, this is the perfect choice.
Diana Molinares
Excellent staff, they demonstrate not only the physical aspect, but also the welcoming spiritual and mental aspects as well. My grandkiddo's love it!
Liz Wimberley
The greatest!!
Douglas Sheaff
Have been going to Premier for 5+years now.
Cee Fambro
My daughter chose martial arts on her own, and Premier Martial Arts has been the perfect fit. She absolutely loves going! The instructors, including James, do an amazing job building her self-esteem while teaching her real self-defense skills. I've seen her confidence grow so much since she started. The environment is positive, encouraging, and welcoming. As a parent, it means a lot to see her excited about something that's also teaching her to believe in herself and stay safe. Highly recommend
Such Arre
This martial arts studio is fantastic. The owner is approachable, kind, and professional ALWAYS. The instructors are equally invested and strive for excellence at all times. My son has significant anxiety and he’s been able to stick with this program and has gained self confidence, emotional control, and has received consistent role modeling from teachers, as well as from the older students at the studios. Excellent program for all ages, from young children to teens & adults.
Sharon A.
BEST Martial Arts Studio in Texas. We have been bringing our 10 year old daughter here for almost 3 years. Thanks to wonderful instructors like Coach Tori, Mr. Anh, Mr. Bryce, and Coach Rodriguez, my child has learned great skills, self-discipline, and most of all CONFIDENCE!!! Mr. Steven and Mrs.Monique are wonderful and professional. Also the place is very clean!! The best way we can protect our kids is to teach them how to protect themselves. This martial arts focuses on Self Defense and only use your skills at the appropriate time. We love PMA WEST!!!
Dr.Valencia Chapin
I love that it feels like a family. And they are very welcoming. You can see that they love what they do. Love that they really help me And encourage me. Thank you to Sensei Austin Sensei Bobby and Sensei China for helping me
Quintona Carr
We are so happy that we found Premier Martial Arts! Our daughter has been at this dojo for almost a year and loves it! Class is fun & engaging. We love the lifelong skills that are also taught and practiced (discipline, persistence, patience, responsibility to just name a few). The senseis are kind, consistent, & fun. They meet each child where they are at and teach from there. We appreciate that their teaching is age appropriate and that they challenge each student. We couldn’t be happier! If you are looking for a martial arts studio this is a great place to attend! It really is a martial arts family.
Becca Hamoud
Mr. Pantano,I can't thank you , your staff and your students enough for another great trip from Maryland to train with you all, everyone up there works hard, enjoys themselves and are respectful dedicated people from the youngest to the oldest. As a currents Black Belt Student (MLKKA) and a past instructor I can appreciate what goes into providing such a quality environment for all of us for serious self defense , team work and a safe place to train, I have 3 Daughters that would truly benefit from Premier/ Counterstrike Kenpo if I lived in your area, Your coffee is not bad either. I look forward to traveling back up soon.
Henry Crew
Very attentive staff and instructors. Friendly and helpful. Knowledgeable and motivating. Great with both children and adults!
Amali Nagee
Both my kids attend PMA’s champions group and it’s been amazing to see the growth and independence they’ve both gained in such a short time! If your looking for a place for your kids to flourish come try out PMA!
Lucas Maul
The instructors do a wonderful job of positively shaping kids into strong individuals.
Mandi Sinsel Twist
Amazing experience with Coach Tori! My toddler got comfortable quick and that’s soo hard for her to do.
Luma Ibrahim
Since we started attending premier, I’ve noticed a huge difference in both of my boys. They have become more respectful, outgoing, and confident. Sensei Austin and the entire team work incredibly hard to help shape the kids into respectful individuals with strong morals and values. In addition to teaching them how to protect themselves they also instill discipline, confidence, and character. We are very grateful for the positive impact that everyone has had on our family.
Matthew Graf
This is an excellent martial arts school with two dedicated sensei, Erik and Damon. Both bring their own strengths to the training—Erik has a slightly more liberal approach, while Damon is more traditional and structured. Together, they create a balanced environment that truly benefits the students. I’m seeing the kids actively applying what they learn in class to their daily activities — showing better discipline, stronger focus, and growing confidence in everything they do. Their overall strength and mindset have noticeably improved. Their class planning and teaching strategies for kids are thoughtful, well‑organized, and genuinely effective. I highly recommend this school to anyone looking for strong martial arts training and meaningful character development.
vijay chaitanya
Saturday was my first time to try the arnis stick fighting martial arts class. I look forward to coming back! Thank you to everyone who helped me feel welcomed and comfortable on my first day!
Ryan Darden
My 6 year old has been enrolled for over a year now. DeStolfo’s personable teachers and assistants make the classes enjoyable and full of guidance. When social distancing was put in place on March 12, 2020, DeStolfo’s was right on top of it to start online classes. This kept my daughter in check with her karate studies. Their plan of action was in place way before the school district got their act together! Whenever we need assistance or 1:1 training, Ms.Danyelle, Mr Fred and all the staff are responsive and helpful. They are the best!
Adrienne Morrison
I wish that I could give this place more stars but 5 is all that Google will allow. I can honestly say that Premier Martial Arts Powder Springs has changed my family's lives in countless, great ways! Incredible instructors and an inviting atmosphere and culture. It was a decade ago that I signed my kids up for a trial class and as soon as I met BJ and Alice I knew that I was in the right place. Now, 10 years later, we have 4 black belts, and 2 nearly black belts as a result of PMA Powder Springs. Thank you all for everything that you do!
Blaze Pearson
Muy buena atención mis dos hijos están estudiando aquí y me encanta 💕
Veronica Jazmin Gibson Luna
This week will be my sons one year anniversary attending the NW Premier Martial Arts Studio. It has been the best thing we have done for our child. It has boosted his confidence and behavior at school and at home. His discipline, coordination, and strength have all improved tremendously. All the instructors/senseis are really Incredible! They are very attentive with the children. They do well communicating and keeping all the kids on track so no one falls behind. Extra instruction and time is given when needed as well. The senseis are also very upbeat, fun, and encouraging. I really like that they tie self respect, life lessons, core values, and even nutrition in with the classes. This will be something we continue for years. My son’s goal is to become a black belt, and he is moving up the ranks! Kudos to sensei Shaun, sensei Chandler, sensei Lola, and sensei Chris for doing an amazing job with the kids! They are extraordinary at what they do! The entire staff is wonderful! Mr. Sid and Becka do a fantastic job making it a fun and special martial arts community! We have looked into other studios and this is by far the Best! We are incredibly happy with our decision. We highly recommend this place! -Lavarn family
Di Lv
My son has been coming here for almost three years, and it’s been great for him. His confidence has grown a lot, and the coaches really care.
Jim Hoover
Good people building community and fostering good habits and principles in kids, not to mention useful self defense skills. When I watch my daughter jump-kick a training bag (or learn how to escape from a grapple), it makes me feel more at ease about her upcoming teenage years.
Jim DuBois
I have seen the great work they do with kids
Kristi Pollock
Absolutley wonderful. Great staff and awesome instructors. Son loves it.
Christopher Lewis
I can not say enough positive, wonderful things about DeStolfo’s! My son has been attending for almost a year and really enjoys going weekly. His confidence has grown and his overall strength has improved greatly! The staff are the most experienced, energetic, caring, and positive people who really have your child’s best interest at heart. My son celebrated his 9th birthday today with an amazing party hosted by DeStolfo’s and I can not thank them enough. They kept 18 children thoroughly entertained the entire time and they all had a blast!
Angela Tacconelli
The instructor and staff are very encouraging and great with the kids. I am so glad we found this school, we love it !
C M
This is an incredible martial arts studio for kids with a highly professional approach to training! They truly love children and instill excellent discipline—I highly recommend it to everyone!
Dmytro Momot
Coach Tori is outstanding! She has great blend of patience, knowledge, and intensity that is hard to find. What really sets her apart is how she’s invested in my entire family, even those off the mat. She is alway quick with an encouraging word and applies life lessons on and off the mat. Her teaching style is clear, motivating, and always focused on real improvement. You can tell she truly cares about her students and wants them to succeed. If you’re looking for a school that can transform your abilities and support your family’s growth, Coach Tori at Premire highly recommended!
William Harn
My daughter has grown so much since joining this martial arts school, not only in her skills, but in her confidence and character both inside and outside of the classroom. The environment has always felt friendly and welcoming, and there is a strong sense of community here. It feels like she is part of a martial arts family, and as a parent, that means so much to me. You can tell that the instructors genuinely care about the kids and have a real passion for teaching them and helping them grow. One of the things I appreciate most about Sensei Austin is the way he holds my daughter accountable while still treating her with kindness and respect. If she isn’t meeting the expectations set for her, he addresses it firmly but kindly and uses it as an opportunity to teach her rather than simply correct her. I also really value that the lessons don’t stop at martial arts. There is an emphasis on character, respect, good morals, and being the same kind of person outside of class that you are expected to be inside of it. He even takes the time to check in about how the kids are doing at home, which has always stood out to me. Sensei Austin has become such a positive role model in my daughter’s life, and I am genuinely grateful for the influence he and the other instructors have had on her. Watching her become more confident, disciplined, and capable while also learning what it means to have good character has been so rewarding. It is very clear that they care about who the kids are becoming as people, not just how well they perform in martial arts, and that is something I truly value about this school.
Jade Murphy
Our experience with PMA has been amazing. Our grandson just loves taking classes here. His focus and confidence has improved so much, he looks forward to class and walks around the house doing his moves. It’s so nice to see him love something so much. I feel this is due to the instruction and patience of his instructors.
Michelle K
An amazing family run martial arts school where your kids are their top priority. They do an excellent job of making it fun for your kids while they teach discipline, focus and responsibility. It’s a great place to have your kids grow physically and mentally.
Mike Tadeo
Love this place! I wish I would've found it for my son sooner. It's like a big family. My son has come out of his shell since joining, and watching him thrive so much in less than a year has been wonderful. I can't thank the instructors enough. They are so great with kids and just awesome people all around.
Leah Inthavong
Entire staff is amazing . Love all the Sensei and staff . Very patient teachers and Fun classes .
Lawrence Sanchez
My son is 8 and has the BEST time! Everyone is made to feel so welcome and included while learning so much more than just Karate. It’s truly the best sports program we have been involved with and he plans to stay long after he’s got his black belt!
Wendy Schoenrock
Coach Tori is the best martial arts coach in the world. She changed my life. Lowkey should get a raise.
Ryoko Rose
I can’t say enough good things about the Sensei Bobby, China and Austin. Each of them brings something unique to the experience, and together they create an environment that is welcoming, disciplined, encouraging, and genuinely focused on helping students grow—not just as martial artists, but as people. Sensei Bobby Sensei Bobby is absolutely incredible with the kids. He has a deep knowledge and it shows in the way he teaches. What really stands out is his attention to detail. He notices the little things—the positioning of a hand, the movement of a foot, the technique behind a drill—and takes the time to help students understand how to improve. He has a great ability to work with kids at different skill levels while keeping them engaged and motivated. He knows when to push them and when to slow things down so they can truly understand what they’re learning. You can tell that he genuinely cares about the students and takes pride in helping them develop confidence, discipline, and strong fundamentals. Sensei China Sensei China brings such a warm and welcoming energy to the studio, and it’s obvious how much she cares about every student who walks through the door. She has a wonderful way of making the kids feel comfortable while still holding them accountable. She is tough when she needs to be, but always fair, and I think that balance is one of her greatest strengths. She understands that discipline is an important part of martial arts, but she delivers it with compassion and encouragement. Beyond teaching, she seems to be one of those people who helps keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes. She creates a sense of structure and community that makes the studio feel like much more than just a place to take martial arts classes. Sensei Austin Sensei Austin has one of the most natural and gentle teaching styles I’ve experienced. Whether he’s working with the kids or teaching the adult classes, he has a way of making everyone feel comfortable while still challenging them to improve. One of his biggest strengths is his ability to break down complicated drills and techniques into steps that people of all ages and experience levels can understand. He doesn’t make you feel intimidated if you don’t immediately get something—he simply finds another way to explain it until it clicks. And, perhaps most importantly, Sensei Austin genuinely seems to enjoy what he does. His personality, enthusiasm, and sense of fun make the classes enjoyable, while his knowledge and patience make them productive. You can tell that teaching isn’t just something he does—it’s something he truly enjoys and takes pride in. Overall What makes the Mechanicsburg PMA studio special is that each Sensei brings a different personality and teaching style, but they all share the same commitment to their students. They create a place where kids can learn discipline and confidence, adults can challenge themselves, and everyone can feel like they are part of a community.
Brian Rhen
My son started when he was four, and he just turned six. Over the past two years, I’ve seen him grow in confidence and develop strong self-discipline. Sensei Erik and Sensei Demon are truly the best. They are incredibly patient, kind, and skilled at blending discipline with genuine care. They create a positive and encouraging environment where children feel supported while also learning respect and focus. My son looks forward to every class, and we are so grateful to be part of this martial arts community!
Chi-Fang Tseng
I attended the RAD class and have benefited tremendously! I feel more self confident, I'm more aware of surrounds & alert. I literally avoided being T-boned when driving home after I left. I love the fact it's Christian based too!
Chanda McKinney

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