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.

Absolutely the best place for MMA. Instructors are phenomenal- we love it here! 1000/10 recommend!
Pea Mar
My kids are all into martial arts. They practice at home and just love the coaches. The coaches have lesson plans and have completed control of their classes. I highly recommend this place
Jacob Bolson
Very nice, persuasive, skilled and patient instructors
JESSY MARIA PALMA GALINDO
I would recommend PMA to parents. My daughter has learned so much in a year. The teachers are very helpful. If they see if she struggles they are always there to help.
Mirna Martinez
My son robert has been coming here for less then 1 year , already received his yellow belt & loves coming to learn
Ginamarie Mignogna
We absolutely love this martial arts school! The instructors are incredibly kind, patient, and genuinely care about each and every student. They go above and beyond not only in teaching karate but also in building strong character and confidence in the kids. You can truly feel the sense of community and how much they value the families they serve. My daughter looks forward to every class and has grown so much since starting. We’re so grateful to be part of such a special place!
Britney David
Our daughter loves learning at Premier Martial Arts especially from Sensei Kevin. We highly recommend you give this place a try!
Steve Rogers
Such a great place for my daughter to learn so many great life lessons. wonderful staff and a great group of people
Jenni Goodlin
Classes were great. Staff was helpful and motivating.
Liana McCormack
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Premier Martial Arts for the incredible impact you’ve had on my daughter’s growth. Through your teaching, she’s not only learning martial arts but also gaining valuable life lessons—respect, discipline, confidence, and strong morals. It’s been truly inspiring to watch her develop both as a martial artist and as a person. Mr. David, Ms. Sally and Ms. Tabitha We’re so grateful for the guidance, patience, and dedication you show every day. Thank you for being such a positive influence in her life.
David
Great dojo and great energy. The kids love it and we love it !
Yusuf Khan
My daughter attends here and is having a wonderful experience. The experienced instructors have helped her gain confidence, improve her physical fitness, and build friendships. I appreciate that the atmosphere is not overly strict, creating a supportive environment where students feel comfortable making mistakes as long as they learn from them.
joan avera
My daughter has been going to PMA for almost a year now. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate these instructors. They have really worked hard to build my daughter’s confidence, toughness and skill. I couldn’t recommend this place enough. It’s a very welcoming environment and you won’t regret sending your child here.
Kelly Nuss
Mi hija ama premier martial arts en Wildwood, super recomiendo este lugar, por sus maestros muy preparados y el ambiente entre todos los alumnos es lo mejor, todos son muy amables!!
Gabriela Granados
We have been at PMA McAllen for the last couple of years and we have loved it! Mr Jesse and Ms Tabitha are wonderful teachers and we are lucky to have them!
Kristy Morales
Premier Martial Arts in North Charleston has been a transformative experience for my family. The mentorship and example set by Sensei Dion have made a significant positive impact on my grandson, Matthew. Under Sensei Dion's guidance, Matthew has learned to channel his excess energy into constructive activities, which has been incredibly beneficial for his overall development. Inspired by the positive changes in Matthew, I decided to join Premier Martial Arts myself. The results have been nothing short of amazing. My health and endurance have improved, and I feel more energized and confident. The diverse range of classes, including karate, kickboxing, and self-defense, ensures that there is something for everyone, regardless of age or skill level. Premier Martial Arts has truly become a family affair for us. We are now a family of martial artists, growing in confidence and strength together. The supportive and welcoming community at the studio makes every session enjoyable and motivating. I highly recommend Premier Martial Arts to anyone looking to improve their physical fitness, mental focus, and overall well-being. Thank you, Sensei Dion, and the entire team at Premier Martial Arts, for creating such a positive and empowering environment! Note: This review reflects our personal experience and the positive impact Premier Martial Arts has had on our family. Premier Martial Arts 8636 Dorchester Rd ste 103, North Charleston, SC 29420 (843) 486-8432
Jennifer Macdonald
Amazing instructors, fun classes for kids, and love the character building virtues they discuss monthly. Highly recommend
Amanda Galindo
Kimberlee Ratliff Troy Blanton and Ariella Ratliff have learned a ton since starting at this school! Sensei Brett and Sensei Dom have taught the kids a ton!
Godis Theonlyjudge
A great place to learn martial arts the instructors are great. My kids take the class and I also take the adult class. The owners are great and wonderful also
Robert Guevara
Great atmosphere, friendly people, my Grandson really enjoys class. We highly recommend!
Lisa DuHadaway
My daughter has loved the martial arts classes here. These guys are great and care about the kids they are working with! Definitely worth checking it out if you are interested in martial arts
Shawna St. Clair
We are absolutely thrilled with Premier Martial Arts and their martial arts classes! Instructors patience, kindness, and ability to connect with children is truly exceptional. They create a welcoming and supportive environment where kids feel encouraged to grow, both physically and mentally. Instructor Jameson has a remarkable way of teaching discipline, respect, and self-confidence—all while making classes fun and engaging. They take the time to understand each child's strengths and challenges, ensuring that every student feels valued and motivated. Our child has not only improved in martial arts but has also developed a sense of responsibility and determination, thanks to Instructor's Jameson guidance. If you're looking for an instructor who genuinely cares and inspires kids to be their best, look no further! Highly recommended!
vishwadha reddy
My son has been attending since they opened over 4 years ago. He loves it and has learned so much. We love the instructors. Highly recommend PMA!
Alex Robinson
Both my kids had their first sessions here, they were very nervous to start but the team were great in coaching them and building their confidence.
Matthew Shield
My son is thriving at this place. They not only teach martial arts but they teach responsibility, patience, and respect! They are fun and energetic and make my son and myself laugh at every class. Could not recommend them more!
America Garcia
PMA Burlington is an upbeat, friendly and family-oriented training Dojo my son has attended the past 3 years. The staff is very flexible and incorporates parents into program activities and personal development goals of its members. PMA Burlington is highly recommended for kids and adults looking to better develop their confidence, empowerment, and overall focus. 5/5
Elaine
I love this place! My son loves it here and he is 5 years old and they are so patient with teaching him! I highly recommend this place. If you don't believe me come try it for yourself!
Nathan Guartuche
Love this place. The staff is so helpful in developing the kids and letting them have fun while doing so. My son enjoys it very much, and we love going to show our support as well!
Fernando Olivarez
You're not going to find a better martial arts school anywhere else! David and his instructors are absolutely top-notch. They don't just teach the kids how to do moves; they instill an entire philosophy of self-discipline and parental respect into their lives. This is a place for children and teens to truly grow, not just busily occupy their time.
Jon Kim
We booked a private class for a party for boys around age 11 and it was fantastic! The kids were so engaged and you could literally watch them grow more confident as the class went on. The instructor was so good with keeping their attention and teaching them to be disciplined (and good morals) while still having fun!
Joshua Kim
My amazing niece has gained so much confidence by going to PMA. She thrives in social situations and is learning how to interact with kids her age, older or younger. It’s so cool to see this program help kids.
Elizabeth Kim
This program is so inspiring! I’ve seen how Instructor David teaches the kids and not only helps them grow but how the kids have helped him grow. Such a motivating program for all ages.
Elizabeth Kim
Premier martial art arts has done wonders for my grandchild!!! We are super grateful to have them in our lives. It has been a positive experience for us. Their martial arts skill is great and the classes are fun!!! Thank you so much for helping us teach good morals and character development! We promise you will not regret trying this place out! The instructors are fabulous.
Rebecca Cowley-Kim
Premier martial arts is honestly the best martial arts school in the area! They have done an excellent job with my granddaughter helping her confidence grow and helping her be better behaved. She now is super respectful and sees discipline as a beneficial characteristic. Over other martial arts schools I feel like they truly do a great job of teaching character development. 100% I recommend PMA 💕
Rebecca Cowley-Kim
My 10 year old loves PMA. Hes such a shy quiet kid, but thanks for PMA and their amazing teacher, hes grown so much and gained so much confident. I would definitely recommend PMA to everyone that wants to learn with the best teachers ever.
Joe Ramos
Great atmosphere
Shahken Robinson
Premiere Martial Arts in Canton, GA, has been a fantastic experience for my 12-year-old son, who has autism and ADHD. I've observed remarkable improvements in his behavior and attitude since he joined. Mrs. Amanda and Mr. E are exceptional instructors; they are always professional and incredibly patient, which has made a significant difference for him. We also had my son's birthday party at Premiere, and it was a wonderful experience. Although he doesn't have many friends at school, his martial arts class came to celebrate, and it truly made the day special for him. I highly recommend Premiere Martial Arts for anyone looking for a supportive and engaging environment for their children.
Jane Dodson
My son and I love this program. The teachers and staff are patient and professional all the time.
Coda
This karate school is affordable and has great teachers. They hold their students accountable and teach them more than just karate. My son really enjoys coming twice a week!!!!!
Alanna Tuck
My children like it it here very much, and the coaches teach very hard.
xiaopei liang
Mr John is absolutely wonderful with young children. Our 3.5yr old looks forward to every class. Highly recommend for anyone looking to start their child on a positive maritial arts journey.
Avishek Saha
Absolutely love Premier Martial Arts in Fox Rub Shopping Center in Bear! The instructional staff, Master John and Master Jason, are amazing as well as the owners Tom & Debbie. The staff are very attentive and make the class fun while teaching respect and listening skills while teaching self defense skills and karate. There is little to no standing around time - the kids work the whole class. The premier weapons class has been amazing for my son! He has learned so much at a very young age. The facilities are alway spotless and they have a wide variety of classes to choose from to fit all schedules-We had tried other places in the past but fell in love when we came here! Highly recommended!
tiifany Rucker
Our family loves being apart of the PMA Bear family! Class is always fun and safe for the kids. The instructors are kind, motivational and funny. As a parent I enjoy watching all the kids develop great character skills on and off the mat.
Danielle Sheetz
Love PMA Bear, Master Jason is always extra nice and willing to help. Master John is an excellent instructor and great with the kids.
H P
My daughter love this place so much! Jason and John are the best teachers ever!
Butterfly
Great place
Jennifer Keeley
Awesome atmosphere, instructors are super friendly and helpful!! My son looks so happy and excited!!
Clinton Ramirez
We love it here! My son has had an excellent experience and has learned self-discipline as well as many other valuable skills.
Lieschen O'Neill
My son attends PMA and loves it! Not only does he learn how to defend himself, but he also learns core values like respect, responsibility, and perseverance. The senseis at the school are enthusiastic and keep the kids entertained.
Kim Sanchez
Premier Martial Arts school number one very Experian working with kids I recommend to anyone
Raoul Thelon
5 Stars Premier Martial Arts School in Helotes is absolutely outstanding! My granddaughter has been a member since the school first opened, and the experience has been nothing short of amazing. Sensei Russell is a fantastic teacher—he not only brings strong leadership and expertise but also takes the time to learn each child's name and makes learning martial arts fun and engaging. Olivia is incredibly detail-oriented and keeps all families informed and up to date on every event and activity. The owners, Amanda and Gonzalo, are also very engaged and great with both kids and parents. Their presence and involvement really set the tone for the welcoming, professional atmosphere. I highly recommend this school to anyone looking for a supportive and top-quality martial arts program.
Ruben Trevino
We've been with PMA for 3, going on 4 years now. This has instilled discipline, respect and taught my son how to follow instructions in a sport. The instructors have worked so well with kids of all age ranges. It truly feels like a family here.
Ally H
Attending this martial arts school has been the best thing that has ever happened to my granddaughter. Really improved her self confidence, pride, discipline and respect.
Kevin Whittington
Love Premier, Jordan, and Sensei Sean! And we love the discipline our 4 year old is learning.
Olivia Williams
Respect all over. I happened to be approached by a young gentleman with such respect while walking past (showing some interest), everything else just fell into place
Mercedez Dawson
David Kim is a highly experienced mixed martial artist (and the highest ranked flyweight in the state!) so I was delighted to learn that he teaches classes at this school. He is cordial and welcoming and puts 100% into everything that he does.
David Chu
This has been great for my son and everyone there has been very helpful and accommodating.
Ryan Borey
Update on May 07, 2025. Note to anyone reading these negative reviews that are dated May 7th, the people writing them are completely lying because a person didn't get hired. We were there that day and there is no way this person passed martial arts skills at a teacher/instructor level. Sorry but sometimes it's about your skill nothing else. But since they didn't get the job they are trying to tear down people by lying and attacking people who gave them a chance. That definitely sounds like martial arts characteristics to me. Definitely a 5 star program! We have an 8 year old son that is enrolled in PMA Canton. This is our 3rd martial arts program so we have some experience with different teaching philosophies and program structures. I can say, without a doubt, we have have found the perfect program for our son. The first school we enrolled him was highly rated and very focused on perfecting technique, which in itself is good, however it was too focused on those things and my son would get distracted due to the long lectures and periods of inactivity. He might only get to hit a pad or bag twice in a 45min session, which really disappointed him. The 2nd school we attended was very fun for him...but it was too focused on fun and games. The main goal was to have fun and get new belts every few weeks without learning any applicable skills that he could build up on in the future. Pretty much no focus on technique or skills, just memorize a routine for the next belt... That lead us to check out Premiere Martial Arts in Canton. We were hesitant at first and our son didn't want to change schools but we are ecstatic that we took that leap of faith and signed up. My son has learned more skills in the past month than in his entire time spent in his other schools. The program is very fun for the kids but not because they are playing around, because they are learning martial arts with an upbeat pace! The classes are extremely active and the kids are always learning, they get a ton of kicks and strikes on bags and pads every single class, and they also incorporate grappling, learning to break free from a headlock is definitely my one of my son's favorite! The biggest compliment to this studio and the fantastic staff is that my son asks me if he can go to extra classes! Before PMA he would ask if he had to go and now he wants to go more! He likes it so much that we changed from the regular program to the black belt program, which is a 6 month commitment, and he gets 15 mins more instruction in each class. Instructor Rafeal is one of the best instructors we have had over the past 3 to 4 years, he is patient with the kids, understanding with all the questions and off the wall comments kids come up with, makes the learning fun and he is beyond encouraging in the kids quest to learn challenging skills! Amanda was our first point of contact and along with being a rockstar instructor is a top notch salesperson because she knows what she is asking you to sign up for is one of the best programs around! We are definitely happy about becoming one of the members of the PMA Canton family and look forward to our son continuing his journey to better himself, and everyone around him, with the values this school stands for and practices daily!
Tadd Gorfido
Since the day I walked in over 1 1/2yrs ago, I've enjoyed every step along the way! The owner Cynthia is always a joy to be around and Amanda(manager) is an amazing person as well! Highly recommend this place!
ryan kidder
My daughter loves going to class and loves her instructors, they push her to be the best she can, which is what she loves most, she loves being pushed to be better. The best Karate place around. Thank you coach Juan and coach Amanda!!!! My daughter is now a senior brown belt, it's all because of her discipline and her Coaches.
Amanda Mcgarity
My son has grown by leaps and bounds at the mma facility. Coach E and Coach Amanda are not just fabtastic coaches to these kids. They are family. We couldn't have found a better facility to teach self-defense, discipline, respect, and teamwork. Thank you, PMA, for being above and beyond!!!
Rebecca Vogel
We’ve been going to PMA-Canton since it opened and the transformation it has done to my child is amazing. He’s more confident in himself and aware of his actions, respectful and more driven in school. I wholly credit his participation in PMA. Love Cynthia and Amanda. Highly recommend
Brittany Bennett
THE BEST EXPERIENCE! When my husband talked me into signing up our son here, I wasn’t sure if he was ready for karate. But Shaun and Jordan made it clear from the very first class that this was the perfect fit for us. It’s not only an amazing martial art but also includes useful self-defense techniques and builds moral courage. I’m so happy our son is part of this family. Highly recommended!
Iryna Aliaksandrova
Premier Martial Arts is great! My son loves going to karate and the teachers there are wonderful. They are dedicated to their craft and are great with their students, making sure each and every one gets the attention they need to ensure their success. If you’re looking for a karate class for your child, PMA is the place to be!
Ashley Dostal
Been going here for a few years and it's great. Instructor Josh is fantastic!
Maiden Chynna
Karate Dave is fantastic. He is stern when he needs to be, but also hilarious and fun. They really focus on confidence building, listening, and respect. The parents night out is a plus. My son enjoyed going here. The reason I decided to look elsewhere was because I didn't feel like my son was being pushed. They charge a belt fee where he pretty much just broke a board and that's it. There was no clear outline, at least to my knowledge, of what he did to earn it. It felt very much like everyone gets a trophy type atmosphere. The primary technique he was learning was kickboxing with some karate. If you want a fun and engaging place to get your child active and build confidence this is a good place. If you want your child to really learn martial arts techniques along with the hard work, self-discipline, mental, and physical resilience that goes along with it I would look elsewhere.
Lindsey
It’s more helpful to kids stability and flexibility. Also trainer is so cool to Keep all kids focused and motivated.
Durga R
Our son went in for the free lesson , he was excited about it till we got there then got scared. Instructors helped to ease him and got him to participate with the class. He now looks forward to starting next week.
Brick Gonzalez
It's our son's home away from home.
Shannon Juengst
Best karate school ever senseis are the best they’re always with a good attitude and I love this schools
Erick Steve
Great studio and my son has learned so much already! Great instructors.
Gianna Lundgren
Amazing place. We are so blessed to have found Premier. If you, the parent, or your child are interested in martial Arts, definitely Premier is where it’s at. The curriculum is great. And the location is perfect!!!!
Suzanne Renae Hudson
This has been such an amazing experience for my daughter!!! We LOVE the instructors and the staff!!! They do an amazing job of teaching, afforadble and transparant pricing and they are just good people!
David Kim
Since enrolling my Grandson’s in January not only have we have seen improvement in their self confidence but also in their compassion and respect for others! We have received several compliments from their school on how well behaved and respectful they are! I would absolutely recommend Premier Martial Arts South Lex to anyone seeking a healthy balance for their child!
Lezlie
Derrick joined PMA a little over a month ago, suggested by his Psychiatrist. Derrick is autistic and social cues, hand- eye coordination, balance, etc needs a little help. We’ve been in physical therapy, speech therapy, educational classes you name it… but Being a part of a Team, being with other students a like, being with instructors that work with him one on one as well as multiple students, has helped build his self esteem, coordination, listening skills, social cues, and respect at home. We appreciate the change and love these classes
Ashley Freels-Coleman
Beyond impressed with this place. Our 3 year old takes a class from Jordan and it has been incredible to see his growth. The skill set, agility and respect that is taught is so well done. Every kid can benefit from this place. It is fantastic! And Jordan is awesome!
Sarah Leech Aucutt
Mr drew is a very lovable person, despite being the troubling student I was he still maintained patience with me and gave me confidence I never thought I could have. Being a tepid student Mr drew always taught me to look at the bright side, constantly telling me that I was better than what I thought I was. Even after leaving he showed me that he wasn’t mad or upset or anything like that about me leaving, he was in total acceptance of my decision and even gave me a hug on the way out. This man is what makes this place amazing, if you ever come here you won’t regret it. Thank you Mr drew 🙂
Khaled Abdallah
Our son loves Premier Martial Arts! It has really helped him with his focus and being more disciplined.
Sarah Kistler
My kids can’t wait to go to class each week! Shaun and Jordan are great with the kids and make sure they are having fun while learning.
kimberly carter
Great experience. My son participated in the Tiny Champs group for close to a year which I feel has truly contributed to his development in several ways including active listening, teamwork, coordination and balance, discipline, self-esteem, concentration and respect! The coaches were so great with the kids! Would highly recommend this program.
Nicole Woods
We hosted our 9yo’s birthday party here and we can’t say enough great things! The team at PMA are so welcoming, communicative and organized when planning the party. They provided custom invitations to hand out, plenty of time to set up snacks, cake and some decor. The kids had so much fun, and the birthday girl is still talking about how amazing it was to cut a cake with a samurai sword, and break a board! 10/10 reccomend for a unique, super fun and low maintenance party!
Joy Williams
Me encanta, la práctica y la disciplina es el mejor lugar que ha estado mi hijo donde él disfruta y ha estado disfrutando practicar artes marciales
Claudia Fuentes
People are great. The prices and charges for EVERYTHING not so much. But my child has grown so much it's hard to complain... I just find a way.
Kelley Tiner
My son is very hesitant to try new things but they made him feel safe and comfortable! He immediately asked the instructor when he was getting his gi! I love how from the first day they give them homework to practice discipline and how morals are a standard! Definitely feel my son would feel the confidence he needs to redeem 1000% recommend!!
Daphne Espinoza
My son is not a sports fan but he loves this place and they have managed to capture his attention without being caught up in a list of dos and don’ts. I can’t wait to see what happens over time with this!
Lynette Enriquez
Our 2 boys, 5 and 6 year olds, have been coming here for almost a year. Coach Josh has been amazing working with them, having much patience to teach them the beginning skills/basics correctly. We see the life skills taught here instilled in them both and transferring over to their everyday lives. Travis, the office manager, is so easy to work with and is a great communicator. We highly recommend this martial arts studio!
Lika WM
It’s been about two years since I started mixed martial arts and I’m finally half way to my black belt. It’s pretty rad to see how far I’ve come since walking into that dojo- quiet as a mouse, apologizing for existing, anxiety ridden. As a domestic violence survivor I had a lot of uncontrollable trauma responses- flight, freeze, people pleasing. Working in a field that put me in situations to help people with anger and violence issues was a tad triggering. Today I can confidently say I am not that scared anymore. My first instinct isn’t to freeze but to stand up for myself and others. I’ve literally had to scream “NO” and counter my teacher as we pretended he was attacking me on a city street. Huge thank you to premier martial arts in Latham for helping me grow and heal 💕
Cassandra Bicking
Great martial arts location all coaches are attentive and focused on the kids. My son loves it. I highly recommend.
Lorraine Perez
My son has really enjoyed it here at PMA in Mount Pleasant, Shaun does a good job of keeping it fun while still pushing them well to show good discipline and learn the routines (which is really challenging when it comes to a 4 year old). We’ve even booked a birthday party at PMA for his birthday next month and he’s very excited to share that experience with his friends. Definitely recommend.
T R
Premiere Martial Arts in Plantation is fantastic. Justin, the main instructor, works with every student with professional instruction, care , and sincerity. Every student is treated as though they are the most important person in the class. When you are putting your child in any learning class , you want someone you trust and cares. I can’t imagine a better place or instructor.
Bernie Petak
My daughter has been taking classes at 3 months and I highly recommend! It's giving her great skills that will serve her throughout her life!
Kristen Bieri

To continue, please select a location

View all locations