Legacy Martial Arts of Scottsdale positions itself as a well-rounded martial arts school with programs for kids, teens, and adults that go beyond physical training to include confidence and life skills development. Their classes emphasize traditional martial arts values like respect, discipline, and self-defense, which are woven into each training level.

Parents and students frequently praise the instructors for being engaging, supportive, and motivating, creating an energetic and welcoming environment in the dojo. Many reviews specifically note improvements in children’s confidence, focus, and self-control after training at the center.

The Kids Karate program is designed to be fun while helping young students build physical fitness, discipline, and the ability to face challenges, with structured age-appropriate lessons. This focus on character and life skill development alongside physical training is a key part of their philosophy.

For teens, the Extreme Teen Karate program pushes beyond basic techniques with energetic, high-motion training that incorporates multiple martial arts influences. It aims to help teens build strength, resilience, and positive social habits while learning self-defense and confidence.

Their adult classes use a Kenpo Karate framework that blends agility, strength, and self-defense skills for a dynamic workout and practical martial arts development. Adults can expect a supportive atmosphere that encourages personal goals such as getting fit, learning self-defense, or joining a community focused on growth.

The community at Legacy Martial Arts is highlighted in both their messaging and reviews, stressing mentorship, friendship, and ongoing encouragement for students at all levels. This culture appears to be a core component of what they offer, not just technical training.

However, the site focuses heavily on positive reviews and benefits, with less transparent information about pricing, class schedules, or how progress and belt advancement are structured compared with some other traditional dojos. Those practical details would typically be important for someone comparing options or planning long-term training.

They really do have a wonderful reputation

“We absolutely love legacy. Master C has helped my daughter tremendously. Very family oriented and a safe space. Wouldn’t go anywhere else. they really do have a wonderful reputation that’s what we were looking for and we are so happy we found them 💗🙏”

Leyla, Google Review

They learn how to set and achieve goals

“Most people sign up for martial arts for self defense, myself and my family included. I quickly realized there is much more to it, especially for kids. They learn how to set and achieve goals, along with valuable life skills, such as respect, honesty, and of course, self defense. Owner and chief instructor, Master C, is a gifted teacher and motivator, and remains one of my favorite people on this earth. Sign yourself and your kids up, you will be glad you did.”

Mike Halland, Google Review

If you’re looking for a martial arts gym that offers classes for both kids and adults, PHX Martial Arts could be the best option for you. Even better, they also offer family classes, which are perfect if you want to train together rather than manage different schedules.

For the ladies out there, you’ll appreciate that this martial arts center offers women’s self-defense classes. During this special class, the instructors will focus on real-life situations, making you feel more prepared whenever you’re out alone.

Meanwhile, parents who just can’t leave their little ones alone will love that this gym lets you stay and watch your kids while they train. Just keep your interactions minimal to avoid disruptions in class.

However, make sure that your kids are really willing to train before signing up, as they don’t offer trial classes or process refunds. Additionally, they’re not the cheapest option out there, so you’d better be sure before you make that investment.

As for the facility, we appreciate that the mats are kept in good condition, making it a safe place to train for both kids and adults.

Patient instructors

“PHX Martial Arts has been incredible for our family. Both my 9-year-old son and I have noticed real improvements in our coordination, balance, and overall physical confidence. The instructors are patient, positive, and skilled at teaching both kids and adults. What I didn’t expect was the impact outside the studio—my son has become noticeably more confident in the classroom, raising his hand more and participating without hesitation per feedback from his teachers. Seeing that growth has been such a wonderful bonus. I highly recommend PHX Martial Arts to anyone looking for a supportive, family-friendly place to learn and grow.”

Lori Oberbroeckling, Google Review

Great communication skills

“We have been attending PHX Martial Arts for 2 months now and it has become our second family. Ms. Egan has been amazing at communication and making us feel at home every time we see her. Mr. Carreon has been an absolutely fantastic instructor to work with. He is always keeping the positive energy and enthusiasm to its max each class. We have never had a bad experience in his classes. He is always pushing us to do our best. We enjoy the structure and atmosphere in each and every class taken. We highly recommend PHX Martial Arts to everyone we meet.”

Sarah Landrum, Google Review

Far East Martial Arts & Fitness could be one of the most inclusive martial arts centers we’ve ever been to. Our son has a classmate with a hearing disability, and watching him receive the same attention and encouragement as everyone was very heartwarming.

What’s great about this facility is that they offer free classes, which is perfect if you want to check first if they’re a great match for you. 

Meanwhile, we appreciate their transparency with their costs. They charge a monthly fee for their one-contract, but don’t worry, as they’ll discuss every term before you sign anything.

However, once you sign, remember you can’t cancel at any time. Make sure your schedule and commitment are aligned before agreeing.

On the other hand, we love that this martial arts gym offers several class times throughout the week. And if your kid misses a class or two, you’ll love that they’re pretty lenient about make-up classes, which we appreciate.

And oh, kids love going here every last Saturday of the month. Far East Martial Arts & Fitness regularly hosts fun activities beyond the usual training, keeping the kids excited and engaged.

Welcoming and friendly teachers

“My daughters have been attending Far East Martial Arts for just a couple of weeks and they already love it. The teacher is extremely welcoming and friendly. I recommend this place to anyone that wants their children to stay active and learn important values.”

Jorge T, Google Review

Trial lessons are available

“My son (7yrs) randomly decided he wanted to start MMA but didn’t know exactly what within MMA. I spoke to Becky who guided us through the process and set up a trial lesson. My son fell in love with it and we signed him up right away. He wants to go everyday and tries to wear his “uniform” to bed. His world now revolves around jujitsu and boxing. My husband (ex-licensed boxer) said once he met Mike, the instructor, he had great form and knew what he was doing. Now my older boys want to join too.”

Shelley Lawson, Google Review

Ucelo Martial Arts is a family-run martial arts center that is perfect if you want to start your kids young. Here, there are several classes tailored for kids, such as karate and Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

What we love about this martial arts center is that they’re not just here to train, they also host exciting activities for the kids and their families. They even organize movie nights, which lets you connect with the other parents too.

They also host summer camps, which give the kids a chance to stay active and engaged during their break.

Another thing that we love about this center is that it gives teens an opportunity to teach the younger students. It really helps in building leadership skills and confidence.

And when it comes to the facility, we love how clean and spacious it is. Kids are free to move around, which makes practicing kicks and punches more safe too.

However, it’s worth noting that Ucelo Martial Arts isn’t open on weekends. You really need to squeeze some time at night if you really want to consistently train.

Demonstrates great leadership

“Our daughter started at 4 years old now about to turn 6. She demonstrates courage among her peers and has always been excited about going to her karate class and always makes sure she says bye to sensei after every class. Love to see her take on a discipline with her peers and build her courage. She is confident she could defend herself effectively. Every employee is a family member and they make you feel like a part of it and the kids seem to love it. The kids look up to each member of the Ucelo family as they demonstrate great leadership for the kids to see how it’s done. Little Ninjas class is GREAT for kids 4 and up and they eventually transition to a solid belt.”

Nicholas Garcia, Google Review

Hosts fun events for kids

“My son has been part of this dojo since June 2023, starting with karate and adding jiujitsu in January 2025 when he turned 8. Over this time he’s grown so much in skill, discipline, and confidence. Training six days a week (sometimes with private lessons) has become something he truly looks forward to, not just because of the classes but because of the friendships he’s built that extend far beyond the mat. The dojo offers so much more than just classes. They host fun events for the kids like Ninja Night and family activities that really make everyone feel included. The sensei, his wife Mrs. Monica, and their kids are all so kind and welcoming. We’re so thankful to have found a place where our son can grow not only as a martial artist but as a person.”

Sylina Jacobo, Google Review

If you’ve been searching for a martial arts school that feels more like a compassionate community than a training center, then USA Martial Arts might just be the one for you.

From the moment we walked in, we noticed how the instructors greeted every student by name. This makes both kids and adults feel seen before they even begin training.

One thing we really appreciate here is that they focus on goal-setting. You could really see the instructors kneel down beside their students, walking them through their next goals.

Additionally, these instructors are very generous with praise, which helps boost their confidence.

We also love that they incorporate age-appropriate, real-life scenarios into their lessons. These often revolve around awareness and making safe decisions, allowing the kids to learn something useful beyond the dojo.

Meanwhile, family martial arts classes are offered here too. So parents out there can train with their kids side by side. 

However, peak classes, which are around 4 in the afternoon, can get quite full. This makes it challenging to provide one-on-one attention.

Compassionate community

“Master knottingham and his team are amazing. If you are looking for a second family… you will find here. The instruction is unrivaled. Learning martial arts, self-defense, improving fitness and confidence can all be very intimidating. Not here at USA Martial Arts. Not only are they master of the Arts, but they are amazing people. Friendly, compassionate, understanding, professional, knowledgeable, honorable, just good people. All ages, all skill levels, all types and sizes of people will find USA Martial Arts welcoming and will enjoy being there, learning and ultimately improving their lives.”

Shawn Gilleland, Google Review

Great goal-setting

“Amongst the myriad of martial arts studios out there, USA Martial Arts in Phoenix definitely sets the gold standard. My 9 year-old son (who has ADHD) joined last year and has literally become a changed person. The school’s focus on respect, goal-setting and self-discipline is unwavering, and I love how they incorporate practical, age-appropriate and real-life scenarios into everything they teach. Master Nottingham is a gifted role model who possesses an amazingly infectious energy to motivate and drive his students to greater heights. Definitely recommended!”

Lisa Hannigan, Google Review

For those of you looking for a martial arts center focused on traditional training, Hioki Dojo is one of the most focused karate schools we’ve visited here in Phoenix.

Almost all the students we’ve met have told us how much they love the structured lessons here. In fact, the moment you enter, you’ll feel the calm, disciplined atmosphere.

A big part of that comes from Sensei Hioki himself. You’ll love that he takes time to explain the deeper purpose behind each stance and strike. 

He’s also very firm but still patient, especially with the younger kids. But don’t worry, he gives very detailed demonstrations, so it would be easier for beginners to follow along.

However, his training style might be too traditional for some. If you prefer a more playful environment for your kids, this isn’t the facility for you.

Another thing we love about this martial arts center is that it offers women’s karate, making it a safe and comfortable space for the ladies to train with confidence.

Meanwhile, the dojo itself feels grounded and structured. We love watching the students line up on time and follow proper karate etiquette.

Great place to learn real Kyokushin karate

“Sensei Hioki is a great teacher with so much knowledge. I have spent over 30 years practicing martial arts and it is a great privilege to find an instructor that I can continue to learn karate from. He is patient with my son and his classes are always a great workout. If you want to learn real Kyokushin karate than come train at Hioki Dojo!”

Rhett Sandoval, Google Review

Amazing footwork practices

“Hioki Sensei is an OG Kyokushin Karate master who has first hand experience knowing what type of combinations and footwork is effective in a fight. Classes typically consist of kihon/technique warm ups and practice of basic punches and kicks, then rounded out by either pad work or partner drills and finally open but controlled sparring. Sensei really is a wealth of knowledge in Karate and while the traditionalist style of teaching martial arts is not as fashionable as it was pre-UFC days, I have gone to Muay Thai gyms and found that they use very similar fundamental techniques, just with slight deviations. The training I received here gave me a very strong foundation to work from, which is why I try to return from time to time. If you are a beginner at martial arts, drop in with an open mind. You WILL get something worth holding on to. If you have experience in martial arts, drop in still and meet a legend in a lost art. We’re lucky to live in such a state with so many martial arts options, and Hioki sensei is one of the greats.”

Douglas Acero, Google Review