Testimonials

What others are saying about the Port Credit Academy of Martial Arts…

…because she was being bullied at school.

Initially we started our daughter in your martial arts program because she was being bullied at school. The martial arts program gave her the necessary tools and information that helped her deal with this situation quickly and effectively. Both of our children belong to the martial arts program and they love to go. It has taught them valuable information that they can use in their everyday life as well as the confidence and strength to strive to get their next belt. They have a lot of fun while they are there and the best part is they are learning at the same time.

Sue and Tim M.

The Academy of Martial Arts offers a very unique & compelling experience

The Academy of Martial Arts offers a very unique & compelling experience and opportunity, far more substantial than any fitness training on the market today. It offers huge benefits in terms of your physical training, as well as many intangible benefits, such as learning an ancient discipline steeped in culture and philosophy. You feel and learn respect and discipline, and even build mental and spiritual strength. And I started almost five years ago when I was a mere 45 years old, and now I am a black belt candidate at the ripe old age of 50. My wife is also a candidate and both my children are involved. My kids have been taught respect and discipline for those around them and have gained many life benefits, as well as strength and flexibility and most importantly respect, discipline, confidence and courage to deal with undesirable aspects of growing up in this day and age.

The Academy is not for the young, the old, the strong, the weak - it is for all. You train within your own bounds, but your own bounds will soon be exceeded. You will also build deep friendships, camaraderie, and mutual respect that can only be gained from you and all the other students going through the training together.

If you are tired of running on a treadmill and want to do something completely different, then walk through the front doors, put on a gi and try a class and then another and another....soon you'll be addicted.

Thank you for running a terrific facility.

David N.

The program is excellent for kids of all ages.

It offers great physical exercise but also enhances a child's ability to focus and listen. It teaches respect to others and formality of the art. Kids love it when they get to the weapons stage and can have fun while learning control over their weapon. It also gives parents skills to help mentor their children and help their child diffuse angry moments. It gives parents a certain level of security that their child will learn self defence skills. Parents also interact and socialize while waiting during classes. I would highly recommend the program (and I have!).

Carol C.

Today after class I had an epiphany…

Today after Kardio Kombat (MMA) class I had an epiphany, a sudden intuitive perception into the essential meaning of Martial Arts. Big words I know, :P, now for those of you that might have heard of the Kardio Kombat class, yes it sounds rough and tough, but it truly embodies everything that is graceful and meaningful of Martial Arts. It will not only teach you essential self defense techniques and movements, but it will also help you expand and build your mind, body, and soul into a true Martial Artist. I am always learning something new every single class, since I started 2 years ago, and having over 8 years or previous Martial Arts experience I am still progressively learning. I have enriched my mind and continue to do so in this non-stop learning curve. The dojo brings a sense of comfort and enthusiasm that no other place I have been too has. We all look after and help each other learn and progress. My gratitude to Kyoshi, our teacher, who makes learning meaningful.

This academy embodies everything that is true to Martial Arts training; genuine, friendly atmosphere, helpful, knowledgeable staff and instructors. It is a very welcoming and encouraging place for all ages and all skill levels, especially for beginners... you will love the experience.

Alex R

The music keeps you energized and swinging your hips…

Now you’re talking, as a matter of fact it’s what everyone is talking about: the Port Credit Academy of Martial Arts offers an incredible Kardio Kicks class (Kardio Kick Boxing with a flavor of weights) 4 times a week.

Taught by different instructors who please even our toughest strongest athlete, or perhaps you are just starting out your first class since high school gym class. That's great! You learn at your own level, with extra detail one on one to our new comers.

Plenty of sweating, pushing ups, ab core, fun techniques, letting loose of a heavy weigh bag can release anyone's tension from a stressful day at work, office, driving home life etc...Weight lifting to tone and developed sleek or powerful muscles, your body will transform as will your outlook on life..

The music keeps you energized and swinging your hips, the fun inspirational posters on the ceiling keeps you focused on your goals too!

This program has kept our members coming back year after year... we still have many of our original members for 15 years...

Nicki G

The Academy of Martial Arts teaches kids in an encouraging, positive way

The Academy of Martial Arts teaches kids in an encouraging, positive way - it's about learning life-long defence and discipline skills, so unlike the merciless schools we see in the Karate Kid that teach "it's only about who wins, no matter who gets hurt" styles.

My son Christian (10) comments: "you should join the AMA because you will learn how to defend yourself and after a while you will notice that it is really fun. I love it a lot and you will love it too!"

Bernadette A.

“Thank you for helping to build a healthier and more active me through the sport of martial arts!

I can honestly say that I appreciate the extremely high quality of instruction at the Port Credit Academy of Martial Arts as well as the commitment to program excellence and focus on student development. The Academy is never stagnant – it is constantly improving and amazing its community with new and exciting developments. As a result, its students are the same: Never stagnant, constantly improving and amazing themselves, their family and their friends with the results.

Rick R.

“The Academy classes re-focus me.

I leave a class refreshed (and sweaty). Refreshed because I've put all of life's little problems back into perspective. I've spent time on me and have actually taken that time for me (which is really important when you have two kids, a dog, a husband, and work). I actually feel re-balanced after each class. I sit up straighter in my car on the ride home (I can tell because I have to adjust the mirror) - the weight of the world is no longer on my shoulders!

The training empties me and refills me. Out with the stuff that is old, used, and doesn't work anymore. In with the new stuff that is useful and challenging and exciting.”

Ella K.

I find that I get pumped up be for every class!

… and never fell like it is a chore to go to class, this is because the instructors are very good and the classes are very organized. I like that everyone gets an opportunity to be respected regardless of the belt rank. My self-discipline has improved so much in such a short time, it’s unreal. I have made some new friends which is always nice.

I can now say that I will be a black belt in the near future. The last point is that I can't wait to be a member of the black belt club, and take my training to a new level and show some of the younger members that age is nothing.”

Lee G.

I have developed confidence in dealing with safety and strangers.

I don’t feel that I will be intimidated by a stranger. I have developed a great deal of respect for all the members at the Academy. I am pleased, never jealous, when other classmates accomplish a new task and show progress. My love for Karate goes from here to infinity, whereas, my love for hockey extends from our house to our neighbor's house.”

Brian M.

I dare you to try a kardio-kicks class and not have an absolute blast while working out!

“I trained with the Port Credit Academy of Martial Arts for 10 years and although a busy lifestyle and numerous other insignificant reasons have kept me away in recent years, the imprint it had on my life has always remained.

Safety wise I've learned not only to always be aware of my surroundings, but that there is no shame in avoiding conflict or dangerous situations even at the cost of seeming 'uncool' to my peers. Fitness wise, I learned there are fun ways to get your heart rate up (I dare you to try a kardio-kicks class and not have an absolute blast while working out!) and that when you lead a healthier lifestyle you lead a happier life. I also learned some invaluable self defense techniques and have fortunately never had to use them in any very dangerous situations, but have certainly put them to use in bars with my girlfriends, on buses home from work late at night and even to diffuse heated arguments between friends.

My mom has continued to train with the Academy diligently and I have to say (even though I'm now 24 years old) that it's still pretty cool to brag about the fact that my mom is a black belt!”

Lindsay G.

Karate has been a very positive influence…

“Because of karate Liam is listening to others, putting away his toys, obeying his parents and getting ready for school on his own. He has memorized the Karate Kid Creed and recites it to us before he goes to bed. He is very serious about working towards his Black Belt and is sincerely trying his best every day to be a good Karate Kid. Karate has been a very positive influence in Liam's life as it has taught him that you must practice, focus and work to achieve the things that are important to you in life and not to expect them to be handed to you.”

Susan D.

We always have fun at these classes and the instructors are very positive and enthusiastic

“Since joining the Academy my daughter, Jessica, is working towards and obtaining her black belt, we as a family have had nothing but praise for The Port Credit Academy of Martial Arts. At the beginning of winter last year both my wife and I joined the Kardio Kicks classes. Since starting these classes we have experienced firsthand the camaraderie and the encouragement from everyone involved. We always have fun at these classes and the instructors are very positive and enthusiastic. Both of us have seen huge improvements to our overall fitness level.”

Bill D.

The Academy of Martial Arts has provided support when needed…

“The Academy of Martial Arts has provided support when needed, encouragements when deserved and praise when earned. My family has been involved with the Academy for several years. Both my children have developed great character and respect for themselves because of their training. Lyndsay a stronger, hard working student who thrives on challenges and learning from the dojo. Brendan a dedicated young man who I believe started at the age of 7 training at the Academy of Martial Arts and now at 14 is more determined and proud to be training and has recently qualified to test for Jr. Black Belt. I have even joined Kardio Kicks and feel stronger for doing so. All of the above is a result of The Academy of Martial Arts.”

Tamara N.

Scottie believes in himself and giving him the inner power to make appropriate choices in life.

I don't know if I have actually taken the time over the past year or so to thank you and the wonderful team you have built at the dojo for all your assistance with helping Scottie believe in himself and giving him the inner power to make appropriate choices in life.

As a single mother I find it hard at times to juggle the responsibilities that come with the job. Because there is no male role model in our home I have to be mom and dad to Scott.

There have been times, as you know, when I have come to you for assistance in dealing with a discipline issue. At each and every occasion you have helped me in dealing with the issue at hand by involving Scott and assisting him in correcting his behavior and, perhaps more appropriately, his attitude.

Scott truly is a good boy, he is respectful, sensitive, caring, responsible, helpful, and works hard toward his goals. Even at ten years old I see in him a strength of character and determination that will help him achieve his goals, whatever they may be. For these gifts

I want to say THANK YOU ALL. Your patience, understanding, kindness and dedication is helping my son, be the best he can be. As parents isn't that all we hope for?”

Cynthia K.

Sabrina pays more attention than before…

Sabrina pays more attention than before and has improved mentally and physically. Sabrina is focusing on things that need improvement like more power in her karate but she really deserves this grade for all the hard work she has been doing. She will enjoy karate in the many years that will come.

Sabita R.

We already see in her a greater awareness of the consequences of her actions

Even though Sophia has been participating in the program for only 3 months no we already see in her a greater awareness of the consequences of her actions. She is a natural strong willed little girl, and that sometimes gets her into trouble. However, she is making an effort to control her actions. The improvement has been noted both at school and home. Of course, I hope to see continued progress as she makes her way through the program.

Cynthia T.

The kardio kicks classes have been so amazing…

The kardio kicks classes have been so amazing and I am really enjoying learning all the new techniques. I love the classes as it is the one place where I have my own space away from my family and friends and I’m really enjoying meeting people in my class so as of now I think I would like to continue coming by myself but I have been telling my friends about the classes and how impressed I am with all the dedicated instructors.

Leanne

Training at the Academy has given me more confidence in the ability to protect myself

“…it has given me more confidence in the ability to protect myself, not only at work, but also throughout everyday life. I deal with irate people every day and have always feared a physical encounter. The simple and very effective techniques were easy to learn and use. I never once thought that someone my size (5’5”, 120 lbs) and strength would be able disarm, and control a very large, enraged individual. Not only would this person comply with all my instructions; if needed, I could take this person to the ground with very little effort, and keep them there for any length of time under my control. My personal well-being has risen 100% and I strongly recommend and encourage everyone to participate in classes.

Josee P.

It just makes Sense . . .

When my son was born my meaning and purpose in life became more focused. However, when my daughter came along something deep down inside changed. My focus had more spirit, much more meaning. I do not know if it is because I have the feeling to protect “daddy’s little girl” or that my daughter will one day be a mother. I only want the best for my own children and that is why I am believe that it makes so much sense to get involved at the academy.

We know you care about your children or else why would you give your life to be their caregiver, their hand to hold, and their taxi driver; in fact, to them you are their hero. Your children are molded by what you do or do not do throughout their life.

Chris D.

Thank you for helping build a healthier and more active community.

On the occasion of your 25^th anniversary I would like to thank you for building a healthier and more active community through sport and recreation.

Dalton McGunity, Premier

For 25 years you have positively impacted the lives of many students

For 25 years, the Academy of Martial Arts has been instructing youth and adults in martial arts. The practice of martial arts involves both mental and physical discipline. While the martial arts sometimes looks aggressive, the practice and demonstration of the sport shows its beauty, artistry and strength. I know that the Academy of Martial Arts has, for 25 years, positively impacted the lives of many students.

Mayor Hazel McCallion