Our family has been part of the American Karate Institute for almost five years now. It all began with one of our children, and few years later, our other two kids also joined in. This journey has been nothing short of amazing. The classes have not only helped our children develop skills but also built their confidence. The instructors are exceptional, and we as a family enjoy all the activities they offer. The staff shows genuine concern and care, as they check up on us when our children miss their classes through emails or phone calls. We appreciate the whole team, from the administration to the instructors, for their dedication and support. We are happy to continue being part of the American Karate Institute.
My daughter has been attending karate at AKI for about a year and a half and the difference in her confidence level is outstanding. She has always been more sensitive and now she has the confidence to be herself. We noticed big changes as soon as she started karate. At AKI they are beyond professional and caring, the kids have fun and the instructors are amazing. I have nothing but good things to say. It was one of the best decisions we made for her!
I highly recommend everyone to take their child to American Karate Institute. It's a family owned business and they truly treat their students like family. My son Sebastián is always excited to train and truly looks forward to participating in class.
American Karate Institute (AKI) has is down to a science… students work hard to earn their belts, Sensei’s are warm (yet stern), & the school’s philosophy is one to abide by! AKI has a genuine interest in their students with occasional emails with videos, individualized attention when needed, & opportunities for fun (like parent workshops, party nights, & their annual picnic). Thank you, AKI, for your dedication to our son & community ❤️🥋
This school is amazing. Sensei Lipsky is great working with the kids. The classes are fun and promote positivity, encouragement, and respect. They take the time to make sure students have the correct form and technique. They also host family picnics and events throughout the year. Family atmosphere I highly recommend AKI.
I'm not one for writing reviews not for a lack of opinion but never seem to get around to it. I honestly set a reminder on my phone everyday to write a review for AKI since the first day my son age 4 participated in a free martial arts class and he loved it. He was attentive and wanting to return immediately. The AKI in my opinion is a fantastic place for martial arts for all ages. Especially the little ones. Owners and instructors have great positive energy makes going to classes super fun and exciting. My son & I rate AKI 10 stars but they only allow 5.
Our son has been going to AKI since April. Since starting, I have seen him blossom in skill and passion for martial arts. He has improved across the board with his behavior and discipline. I am grateful for this school that incorporates the success of their students not only in the class but in all the aspects of the students life. I highly recommend this school and I am grateful to be a part of the AKI family!
We love AKI! My son really enjoys attending classes and has asked to reenroll for another year after our membership expired. The staff and the instructors are great, respectful and really focus on providing quality techniques for students. We have noticed an increase in my son’s confidence as he levels up from belt to belt mastering each level, board breaks etc. AKI and Sensei Lipski provide a positive and safe environment for all.
Just wanted to give an update on the experience we have had with American Karate Institute. My daughter has now been involved with AKI for about 3 months. The transformation I have seen in her is nothing short of a miracle. She started the program as a very shy person who was unsure of herself and who would get frustrated and give up when things got tough. The person she is today is the complete opposite. She has become very open, outgoing and, most importantly, very respectful. She loves her instructors. No matter now tired she is from school, she still wants to go to Karate and make us and her instructors proud. The instructors are AMAZING. They are true role models in my child's life. Many years ago, I was blessed to be in her same position being a student of American Karate Institute. It changed my life forever. I am so blessed that those who was able to change my life, are the same instructors who are guiding my daughter onto the same path of success. I want to personally thank all the staff at AKI for the amazing job they do. The lessons they teach goes way beyond techniques in martial arts. They also teach the students and the parents the spirituality behind martial arts and how to become a better person.
My son is now a green belt and he's loved this school since day 1 that he did the free try-out. Can't wait for my 4 y/o to be a little older so that he can also join!
Great ethics and very professional, would recommend to anyone!
Happy to see that a family business like this is flourishing in our community for many many years, my brother went here in the 90s and now to have my son join last May is beyond special. Words are not enough to explain the excitement and eagerness my son exudes when it's a karate day at AKI Miami! He is learning knew skills each week and challenging himself to be better inside and out. His mentors are beyond caring, passionate, patient and treat him like family.
The American Karate Institute provides an exceptional MMA experience. From skilled instructors to a welcoming atmosphere, the studio combines effective training with a strong sense of community. The dedication to fostering both physical and mental strength sets this studio apart, making it a top choice for those seeking a well-rounded martial arts experience for your kids.
My son has been attending AKI going on 3 years. I cannot think of a better place to teach my son martial arts. What’s so impressive to me is the attention to detail placed with all level of students. There is a focus to teach the kids the foundation of martial arts. An emphasis on discipline, bravery, and courage that instills a level of confidence with the students. AKI has a family atmosphere, with an excellent martial arts program.
Aki Miami is the best choice out there when it comes to MMA training for Children. This place is family owned and operated. Super clean. The staff is phenomenal with the children. They are interested in teaching and they take their time in explaining and demonstrating all the techniques. I’m super happy I was referred here and my son is excited for every class. Looking forward to seeing my son grow with the school!
What an amazing team! 👏 our kids not just learn high quality defence skills but also life lessons! Thank you! So happy we found you! …
The holiday season is often a time for reflection, gratitude, and giving. While many focus on family gatherings, gifts, and festive traditions, there’s an important life lesson that can be learned from martial arts: the power of gratitude. Martial arts not only helps us grow physically and mentally but also nurtures a deep sense of […]
In the world of martial arts, the journey from a novice to a skilled practitioner is not just about mastering techniques or achieving high ranks. At its core, it’s about the transformative role of the instructor in shaping a student’s experience and growth. Martial arts instructors are far more than just teachers; they are mentors, […]
Martial arts can be particularly beneficial for kids as they prepare to go back to school. Here’s how: Physical Benefits Fitness and Energy: Regular training helps kids stay fit and energetic, enabling them to handle the physical demands of a school day. Coordination and Motor Skills: Improved coordination and motor skills can enhance performance in […]
The school bell might signal the end of classes, but it’s just the beginning of a transformative journey through Martial Arts for your child. 🧠 Education doesn’t stop with textbooks; it’s seamlessly woven into the fabric of Martial Arts. This dynamic discipline instills discipline, responsibility, and invaluable life skills in our young learners. 🤺 Precision and practice […]
Heading back to school should be a happy and exciting time for your child – new clothes, new friends to make, and new teachers to meet. Unfortunately for some children though, the enthusiasm and eagerness to start a new school year can cause more anxiety than excitement if they are the victim of a bully. […]
Many martial arts parents wonder what they can do to help their child excel in Karate, Jiu-Jitsu, Kung Fu, or whatever martial art they’re enrolled in. The one factor that has remained constant in development,regardless of the sport or activity, is encouraging your child to practice because without practice there can be no progression. Here […]
At American Karate Institute, we constantly convey the message to our students, both young and old, the many benefits of practicing martial arts. Whether your studying Karate, Kung-Fu, Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, or any other martial arts form, the benefits of martial arts stretch way beyond just self-defense. Many experts and well known celebrities (including various doctors, […]
When people talk about martial arts values that one learns when practicing any form of martial arts, the overwhelming focus is usually to that of self-defense, but what we are talking about are the traditional values of honesty, integrity, respect, loyalty, compassion, courage, justice, and the unwavering will to “Never Give Up,” which are philosophies […]
In the late 1960’s and early 1970’s a study was conducted by Stanford University professor and renowned psychologist, Walter Mischel, proving a direct correlation between self-control and better life outcomes for children that were able to resist temptation and waited for a preferred reward. The study, which was a simple test of self-control in the […]
Over the last decade, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has been gaining popularity with adults, teenagers, and children. With prominent and outspoken fighters like Connor McGregor, Rhonda Rousey, Jon Jones, and many others, it’s no wonder that MMA has begun to appeal to kids. According to an report by ESPN, there are now 5.5 million teenager […]
Karate positively impacts children because it improves their overall development including motor functions, coordination, strength, and social skills as well as it being an enjoyable activity. This sport requires a lot of practice, hence why it’s important to take the time to do so whenever you can. Practicing for karate shouldn’t just take place in […]
It’s that time of year again. Are you one of the many wondering what to get their Karate kid as a gift for the holidays? We’ve assembled a list of 7 Karate gift ideas is case you’ve been struggling to find the perfect gift. 1. Punching or Kicking Targets / Focus Pads Focus pads make […]
If you think that martial arts classes are just for kids, think again. Taking a parent-child, or family, martial arts class with your kid has tons benefits that can help you to bond with your child and better understand what he or she is learning. At American Karate Institute, we pride ourselves in being able […]
There’s always a first time for everything. Do you remember when it was your child’s first day of school? Their first time being away from you? Or even their first trip to a memorable place, like the zoo or amusement park. These are places and events that your child will react differently to. They can […]
The American Karate Institute has made its mark in Miami/Kendall for over 30 years. From teaching kids the basics and fundamentals of martial arts to helping parents guide their children in all aspects of life. At AKI Miami we teach Mixed Martial Arts, styles that include Karate, Taekwondo, Boxing, Judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Kickboxing, wrestling and […]
At the American Karate Institute, we offer the best Mixed Martial Arts classes for kids in Miami/Kendall area. From our award winning curriculum to our instructors who have over 120 years of combined experience, we thrive on making your child’s goal a reality. There are several reasons why our students benefit the most by being […]
Many martial arts schools teach kids as a sidelight to their main focus: adults. They are not that interested in children, and only do it because it represents a sizable chunk of their school’s income. Not us at American Karate Institiute. Children are routinely thrown into adults classes or treated as “miniature adults.” A school […]
Is your child excited to re-watch the Power Rangers movie from this year? (Be honest: Are you a little excited, too?) Do your kids gaze longingly through the windows as you pass a local karate studio? Or maybe they’re just tired of the activities they’ve participated in already, and they — and you — are […]
AKI Miami’s programs teach concentration and self-control- precisely what people with ADHD need; yet our students walk away with so much more. Marital arts pair lessons in self-control with cardiovascular activity, just what the doctor ordered for people with ADHD. Experts agree. “Cardio is one of the best treatments for ADD and poor mental focus, […]
You know your child better than you may even know yourself. Their likes, their dislikes, favorite programs, best friends. From the day they’re born you have a front row seat to their lives. You are wonderfully fortunate to be a proud parent. Then one day, it seems like you do not know them. Are they […]
Nothing is more important than your child’s safety, but in the crazy, busy world we live in, putting safety education at the top of the to-do list isn’t always easy. At the American karate Institute, we believe physical and mental strength improve the safety of your child. Two very important factors that contribute to safety […]
Back to school should be an exciting time — new teachers, new clothes, new school supplies and new friends. But for a child who is the victim of a bully, the excitement of a new school year is filled more with anxiety than anticipation. As a martial arts instructor, I’m often asked by parents about […]
One of the most contentious topics for many martial arts schools is the age kids should be when first they start their practice. At AKI, we believe the student and the parent play the biggest role in this decision. While some parents think no age is too young — as long as the classes are […]
The benefits of martial arts for kids are well documented, with a lot of scientific and psychological research to support them. Training in martial arts can help children learn about the value of hard work, discipline, integrity and social skills, while building up an excellent foundation for active living. So how do martial arts classes […]
School can be a challenging environment for some students. Kids have to succeed academically, while learning plenty of life lessons, juggling extracurricular activities, and dealing with new challenges they’ve never faced before. At the American Karate Institute, we teach many of the skills required to succeed in school. We’re not solely looking at academic performance, […]
Flexibility is a vital part of martial arts training. High levels of flexibility allow taekwondo artists to kick high and jiu-jitsu artists to be highly mobile and efficient, while reducing the risk of injuries for all students. Though most martial arts focus on static stretching due to their respective traditions, the latest science finds that […]
Despite its massive growth during the past three decades, there are still many parents hesitant to enroll their children in a martial arts program. Fear of injury, hand-to-hand combat and strict discipline prevent them from enrolling their kids in schools like American Karate institute that actually spends more time teaching life skills than they do […]
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has quickly become one of the most talked-about styles of martial arts, due to its rise in mainstream popularity. Many MMA fighters have reached international celebrity and some have become recognized as beloved modern athletes. With this growing popularity, more and more kids have become interested in MMA. Given the full-contact, […]
Goals can help you reach your full potential, no matter the endeavor. With the martial arts journey being a long and tough one, goals are a necessary part of becoming a successful martial artist. Belts are great for giving martial artists a sense of progression, accomplishment, and goal setting. That being said, there are so […]
Self-defense is not just about protecting your body. Too often, people forget that body strength and mind are not mutually exclusive. In fact, most martial arts training methods take a disciplined approach to help you build not only your physical strength, but your mental fortitude as well. Whether suffering from sports injuries, chronic pain syndrome, […]
Some people misinterpret martial arts as a solely violent or aggressive practice. The popular traditional forms of martial arts, such as Kung Fu, Taekwondo or Karate can get a bad reputation from the way the media and Hollywood portray martial arts. Where they like to show action and gratuitous violence that helps sell movie tickets, […]
Known as a weaponless form of self defense, Karate is one of the most practiced martial arts forms in the world. Karate is a combination of two Chinese characters: “Kara”, meaning empty, and “te”, meaning hand; meaning empty hand put together. Even though Karate is a form of defensive and counterattacking body movements, its mental […]
We are all aware that exercise generally has many benefits, such as improving physical fitness and strength. But what do we know about the effects of specific types of exercise? Researchers have already shown that jogging can increase life expectancy, for example, while yoga makes us happy. However, there is one activity that goes beyond […]
Bullies frequently prey on peers they deem inferior to them. They look for classmates, neighbors, and acquaintances who exhibit shy, timid, introverted characteristics. For some psychological reason, bullies get a temporary high from putting others down, making them feel bad, or injuring them. Unfortunately, bullies are likely to be a part of life for the […]
Inner confidence plays a massively important part in anyone’s success and happiness and it is crucial that children are given the room to develop theirs from an early age. The American Karate Institute is a wonderful place for children to build self-confidence, discipline and the belief they need to lead a positive and fruitful adulthood. […]
As a martial arts instructor, I’m often asked by parents about the best ways to help their children to deal with bullies. While there are many approaches to the problem, I think one of the best ways is to instill self-confidence in your children. And martial arts is just one way to instill self-confidence. No […]
Raising children in the modern world is certainly a difficult task considering all the external factors that may affect how our children’s values, morals, and principles are molded. There are no parenting manuals or guides with which parents could refer to in order for them to be able to raise children who are kind, just, […]
What do you think makes a great friend? Is it someone who knows you inside out and keeps all your deepest, darkest secrets safe? Or is it a partner in crime who is always there to join you on your crazy adventures? We’re pretty sure you already have a certain friend in mind as you’re […]
Halloween is such a fun time of the year for children; but when children encounter tricks instead of treats, this holiday can become very scary – and not just because of the decorations and frightening costumes. Abductions, bullying, candy that has been compromised; these are all things that can make Halloween a dreadful holiday for […]
No doubt, studying and doing well in school is one of our main priorities for at least the first 18 years of our lives. This may have initially been encouraged by our parents, which we will also be unabashedly passed down to our next of kin, but ultimately all of us want to make the […]
Dear parents & guardians, This month we want to talk about respect. Respect is something very important in our class and one of our 7 principles of martial arts training. It is something we need kids to know, understand and practice. Respect is a way of treating or thinking about something or someone, and we […]
Making friends is an important part of childhood. It seems like some kids have more friends that they can keep track of, some have a few-but lifelong-friends, whereas some children struggle to make meaningful connections with their peers. In today’s tech heavy world, making those meaningful connections and relationships is harder than ever. We, including […]
Fear is a natural response that we have all experienced at some point or another. Don’t get clouded by cockiness; even the toughest of us encounter some sort of anxiety or uneasiness when faced with a stressful situation. However innate it is, we can still discover ways to overcome it. Some of the greatest lessons […]
Walking into your first class is daunting. Without question, you will feel fear and doubt. From that first step, you will feel your heart racing with everything you do. This is normal. In fact, it would not be normal if you did not feel this fear. Even after all of these years of doing martial […]
What does leadership mean? Before explaining how our martial arts programs develop leadership skills we have to define which characteristics good leaders have. For sure, being a leader requires a lot of confidence and courage when it comes to taking the first step toward something new. It also means inspiring and motivating others to stay […]
Children and adults with conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), often experience sensory overload, anxiety, restlessness, and chronic stress, which result in meltdowns, irregular sleeping patterns and poor attention spans. Partly, its due to their difficulty to filter background noises, and their poor ability […]
Martial art virtues include such things as courage, discipline, and character development. Part of living ‘The Way of the Warrior’ is based on the role martial arts can have in helping a person develop character. And I do believe there is no more essential or defining aspect of a person than their character. But what […]
Bullying is every parent’s nightmare. We often worry about what our children experience when we’re not there to watch over them, and if other children are treating them nicely. We send our kids off to school every day and place great trust in our educators and the school system. The reality is, however, that bullying […]
How does a parent make their child bully-proof? This is a common concern among parents with young children during the first 2 months of returning back to school. Headlines featuring tragic consequences of bullying are common. It seems that there is good reason for such concern. So, again, the question, “How do I make my […]
Are you interested in learning martial arts? If so, have you considered how important it is to find a knowledgeable, experienced & skilled martial arts instructor? It takes a highly trained and skilled individual to effectively teach martial arts. Whether it’s Karate, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai (or anything in between), learning the arts requires years […]
Bullying is major issue that can cause many negative consequences for children including anxiety, depression, sadness, anger, changes in eating and sleep patterns, and decreased interest in things he or she used to enjoy. A child that is bullied may lose interest in socializing, struggle with homework and/or classwork, or lash out at other students […]
The spookiest night of the year is here! Kids everywhere are choosing their favorite costumes and looking forward to their favorite treats. In preparation for this ghoulishly good time, the American Karate Institute is encouraging parents and caregivers to keep safety in mind so that no child is haunted by Halloween-related injuries. Hidden dangers associated […]
Once your child has enrolled in Mixed Martial Arts at the American Karate Institute, we want to do everything we can to encourage and empower them to understand the positive benefits of training in this life, art & sport. In order for AKI to be effective in our goal of empowering your child, we feel […]
Whether it’s work, school, that upcoming event, or other commitments, there’s always something out there to stress us out. Unfortunately, we sometimes let the stress get to us and end up focusing on the negative things. As a result, we make ourselves miserable and sometimes take a long time to feel 100% again. If you […]
In the modern age of mixed martial arts, where outlandish bravado and themes such as disrespect, trash talk, and ruckus are regarded as the norm, there is one distinguishable value that separates superficial martial arts from true, authentic martial arts, honor. Honor is one of the most important values of true martial arts because it […]
Do your thoughts drift when you study? Do you have trouble focusing on your job? Are you having difficult focusing on a path in life? If you do, you are not alone. Most people are not able to focus on a thing for long. In fact, people’s attention span has been steadily decreasing over the […]
It’s Valentines Day! Since love, bonding, togetherness is usually the theme for this incredible day, AKI would love to share reasons why most people in Miami love Martial Arts Training. There are so many forms of martial arts, and while some practices are ancient and others are modern, they all have one thing in common: […]
In life, there are many unexpected situations that may present itself that can change the way we live. We can choose to adapt or fold depending on the circumstances. During these difficult times where parents & students aren’t able to take their children to their Mixed Martial Arts classes, there are ways to maintain & […]
Karate is practiced by people of all ages, all over the world. At the American Karate Institute, we’ve seen the benefits of practicing karate across all different ages. Whether you’re 6, 36, or 56, trying karate for the first time can bring all kinds of benefits to your life. If you’re thinking about enrolling your […]
October is National Bullying Prevention Month, time dedicated to teachers, students, and martial arts schools to work together to end bullying. Statistics show, “that nearly 30% of students in 6th through 12th grades report being the victims of bullying. More than 70% of students in those same grades say they’ve seen bullying at their schools.” […]
Roundhouse Kick The roundhouse, sometimes known as the swinging kick, is one of the first moves you’ll be taught in MMA training and one of the most prominent kicks you’ll see in mixed martial arts sparring and competition. And for good reason. Few strikes are more useful for minimizing an opponent’s offence, wearing them down, and even […]
At AKI, we believe keeping your child active throughout their formative years is essential to ensuring that they grow up to be healthy and strong. There are many methods that you can use to encourage your child to be as active as possible. It’s recommended that you try several of the following, as what’s beneficial […]
You may be considering enrolling your child into one of our kids martial arts classes, but are not sure if the class will benefit your child. There are many reasons why it is so good to learn martial arts as an adult, but do these apply to kids as well? Here are a few reasons […]
Bullying is so frequent in the nation’s schools and neighborhoods that it is almost an epidemic. It isn’t easy to discover whether your child is being bullied because they are usually too frightened to talk. Parents need to look for signs such as falling grades, mysterious bruises, depression and a sudden desire to avoid school. […]
People don’t often equate the idea of compassion with something as seemingly destructive as martial arts, but I believe it plays a significant role. We are, after all, dealing with the damage and death of other human beings. There is a reason why Compassion is one of our 7 core principles here at the American […]
Making friends is an important part of childhood. It seems like some kids have more friends that they can keep track of, some have a few-but lifelong-friends, whereas some children struggle to make meaningful connections with their peers. In today’s tech heavy world, making those meaningful connections and relationships is harder than ever. We, including […]
There are many benefits to enrolling your child in martial arts classes, and many people want to know at what age they should enroll their children. In this blog, the American Karate Institute will discuss some things that can help you make the best decision. Research on Benefits of Martial Arts for Kids Before we […]
Diabetes in U.S. children is a growing epidemic. The prevalence of Type 2 diabetes in the 10 to 19 year-old age bracket climbed 30 percent from 2001 to 2009, according to The Journal of the American Medical Association. Type 2 diabetes, known as “adult-onset” diabetes, used to be unusual in children. As a child, the […]
Private lessons can often be under looked as a method to improve or maximize ones training. In any field of study, to truly get better its the ones who seek private instruction, and or tutoring who undeniably stand out from the rest. For students as an example, in a group music classes for instances, who […]
Your kids are going back to school and you’re ready for the best year ever, but you know the statistics; 17% of students are bullied, more than once a month. And it doesn’t really matter how old you are, where you go to school, what color you are, or where you live, bullies are everywhere. […]
On the surface, martial arts may appear to be a 100% physical activity. In a martial arts practice, you’ll learn techniques, philosophies, and systems to achieve your martial arts goals. But you’ll also learn valuable lessons that apply to all areas of your life. Students who participate in martial arts classes learn valuable life skills […]
Mixed martial arts (MMA) is a full-contact combat sport that combines different techniques and disciplines from various martial arts, such as Brazilian jiu-jitsu, wrestling, boxing, and Muay Thai. Many parents may be hesitant to enroll their child in an MMA program, fearing that it promotes violence or aggression. However, MMA training offers numerous benefits for […]
Cyberbullying is a growing issue in today’s digital age, with a significant number of children and teenagers experiencing online harassment. While it might seem counterintuitive, learning martial arts can be an effective way to combat cyberbullying. In this blog, American Karate Institute will explore the benefits of martial arts training and how it can help […]
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has gained immense popularity over decade, and for good reason. More than just a sport, MMA is a comprehensive martial art that combines striking, grappling, and submission techniques from various disciplines. What many people don’t realize, however, is that the benefits of MMA extend beyond the physical realm. In this blog, […]
In today’s ever-changing and unpredictable world, the importance of self-defense cannot be understated. While it’s crucial for everyone to learn how to protect themselves, it’s especially important for young children. Elementary school students can greatly benefit from learning self-defense techniques and principles, as it not only boosts their confidence but also teaches them valuable life […]
The middle school years are a crucial time for students to develop various life skills, and one of these essential skills is self-defense. Learning self-defense at a young age provides several benefits that go beyond physical safety, including building confidence, fostering discipline, and promoting overall well-being. In this blog post, American Karate Institute will discuss […]
In the world of martial arts, perseverance and determination are key attributes of a true martial artist. The journey is often challenging, with countless obstacles and setbacks to overcome. However, those who embody the spirit of never giving up find themselves not only excelling in their craft but also becoming stronger, more confident individuals. In […]
Grade school can be quite the experience for any child. It is a place where a child not only learns academically but one where a child must learn to socialize and function in the world. Unfortunately, there are a lot of negative experiences that a child may have when going through school. Whatever those experiences […]