RobandLiz Gaspar
January 8, 2020 14:36
My older daughter first started training here 3 years ago. We brought her after she shared that kids were teasing her at school for being quiet and shy. We discussed our concerns 1-on-1 with Senior Master Espinosa, who shared what the training could do for her. Over the years, we noticed a dramatic and positive improvement in our daughter's self-esteem. She overcame her shyness, was able to protect another kid from a bully, and is now her teacher's go-to leader in class.
When we first signed her up, I had my doubts - but I was amazed how they helped her find her identity and comfort zone. Over time, my daughter is the one reminding us to get in the car and get to class. Since then, now our entire family of 4 participates in training classes throughout the week. (Yes, even me - even though I work in DTLA, I try to get back home in time to train at least once a week.)
The facility is well maintained and the instructors are optimistic and well trained. They are always looking for ways to tailor the training to the individual - if my knee is acting up, they caution me to listen to my body and adjust the exercises accordingly. If my 4 year old is having a bad day, they do their best to keep her engaged and motivated. And if I'm not giving my kids the appropriate feedback, they professionally let all the parents know how to support the kids in the best way possible.
They have various classes in TaeKwonDo, Krav Maga, Kickboxing - so it's a wide range of training for all ages and intensities. But overall, I appreciate that they are constantly looking for interaction and feedback. Senior Master Espinosa, Master Kivi, and the rest of the staff want parents to be involved (instead of just waiting in the car or in the waiting area) in their kids' training. They learn both the parents' and the kids' names so they stay aware of who's coming into the studio, and they constantly want to know how they can help the parents with their kids. These are people I trust my family with - and it's not just because they're trained martial artists. It's a trust that they've well earned - and since that's not something that you can easily put out there and share like wearing a black belt, I wanted to share this review.