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Aire Greenberg
via Google

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.

Lupe Montes
via Google

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!

Albert Diaz
via Google

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.

Myriam Polo
via Google

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 ❤️🥋

Vanessa Picart
via Google

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.

Yaneys Mendive
via Google

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.

Annie Perera
via Google

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!

Monica Torres
via Google

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.

MICHAEL KELLEY
via Google

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.

Ivan Novillo
via Google

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!

Kelsey Lyons-Cubito
via Google

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.

Daymi S. Reyes-Perez
via Google

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.

M. G.
via Google

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.

Jackie Oliva
via Google

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!

kamiutzify
via Google

What an amazing team! 👏 our kids not just learn high quality defence skills but also life lessons! Thank you! So happy we found you! …

(305) 385-8811
American Karate Institute
Miami Martial Arts & Fitness for All Ages!
American Karate Institute

How Taking MMA Classes Develops Leadership Skills

May 28, 1924

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 true to themselves, and helping others reach their goals while setting a shining example. Being a leader displays high integrity and honesty, as well as the ability to solve problems and find solutions. Someone who leads knows how to communicate, build relationships, and come up with innovative ideas. But most of all, being a leader means helping others develop and guide them into their own unique personalities.

Leadership doesn’t mean transforming others into something they aren’t. Leadership means supporting the people around you on their own unique journeys. And this is exactly what we teach the students at American Karate Institute.

Read on to learn more about the different qualities needed to be a leader that are taught in our martial arts classes!

Communication skills

Speaking in public can be scary and challenging for some of our students, but in our programs, they learn to overcome their fears. In our classes, the students learn to speak in front of groups and let their voices be heard. After some time, even shy students come out of their shells and become comfortable with it. They also learn to listen to others when it’s not their turn and other students are speaking. This is exactly what makes a good leader. Good leaders are not afraid to stand up and talk if it’s required, but also know when it’s time to stay silent and let others talk to represent their own opinions and ideas.

Confidence

Great leaders believe in themselves and are not afraid to show this. An essential aspect of our martial arts classes is building this self-confidence. By participating in our programs, our students learn new things all the time, overcome challenges and develop their skills. Every small step they take is a step closer to becoming a black belt one day. Achieving their goals grows confidence and gives them a good feeling about themselves.

Be your own leader

The biggest challenge a leader can face is leading yourself. Being able to motivate yourself and work hard to reach your goals requires a lot of self-discipline, determination, and commitment. The programs at our Sovereign schools help you build these characteristics. Our students learn to practice constantly and go through their journey step by step until they reach their goals. They begin to recognize success as a result of attending classes regularly, and of course, this motivates them to continue!

Start developing leadership skills

Leadership skills are one of the best skills to have for a bright future. So why not give it a try?

Whether you’re interested in Karate, Judo, Kickboxing, Taekwondo, or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu – all our classes/programs teach important values and help you on the way of becoming a better person.

Contact American Karate Institute for a Free Trial Class

At the American Karate Institute, we teach a way of life. Our Miami martial arts school and MMA Classes has developed a well thought out curriculum that teaches more than just the art of self-defense. We delve deep into our students’ technique, skill set, intelligence, intuition and overall physical fitness. Contact us today if you’re interested in mixed martial arts and self-defense classes and schedule your free-trial class!

About Angel Gonzalez

A 7th Degree Black Belt, Founder of American Karate Institute, Teacher,  Inventor  and Martial Arts Consultant.  I have been involved with the Martial Arts for more than 43 years.

I was born in Havana, Cuba in 1956. In 1962 at the age of 6, because I was being bullied in school, my aunt enrolled me in Judo. I trained and competed as a child for 3 years with Instructor Heriberto Hernandez. In 1966 I immigrated to the United States to live with my aunt. I lived in several different cities before I moved to Tampa, Fl . At the age of 14, I practiced Uechi Ryu, a Okinawan style karate with Tom Alexander.  In 1973 I began practicing a Japanese style of Martial Arts called GoJu Shorei under Sensei Mike Hayashi. In 1976 , after 3 years of hardcore martial arts training, I earned my Black Belt.

​Sensei Hayashi’s traditional, intense, and disciplined Japanese training helped me develop a strong traditional martial arts foundation. I was one of the few students who stuck it out and earned my Black Belt. Regretfully, due to unexpected circumstances, Sensei Hayashi had to close the school down.

​In 1976, after shopping around and visiting other schools just like you, my wife and I (read her story) enrolled at the Jhoon Rhee Institute of Tae Kwon Do with Master Bill Heimberger.

​It took us seven years to earn our Tae Kwon Do Black Belts. We traveled to Washington DC to test directly under World Renowned Grand Master Jhoon Rhee where we were offered a teaching scholarship to become professional martial art instructors.

 In 1981 we moved to Washington, DC to learn directly from Grand Master Jhoon Rhee.  It was like going to college to learn a martial arts profession.  We distinguished ourselves and found our true calling in life – teaching martial arts.  After 2 years of intensive training, we moved to Miami, Florida to open our school and live the dream of having the best school not only in Miami, FL,  but in the country.

​We did not have the funds to open in a shopping center, but in 1983,  American Karate Institute was established at the Ron Ehmann Park recreation center in Kendall adjacent to Killian High School.

​Not only were we fortunate to have learned Martial Arts and become an instructor from the best, but we also made a great husband and wife team with a rare quality that cannot be taught – CHARISMA.   Since we did not have the funds to advertise, we depended upon our charisma and teaching abilities to build the school by word of mouth. Charisma is a quality that often separates the best from the rest in the martial arts profession.  There are a lot of instructors that teach martial arts, but there are only a few that teach it with charisma.

​In 1989, due to a tremendous following, we were able to open at the location we now have today in the Crossings Shopping Village.  Charisma along with a systemized martial arts program is what made the American Karate Institute the best kids program in the country.

​In 1991 before MMA and UFC became popular, we made the switch to mixed martial arts.  After meeting Royce & Rorian Gracie in Tampa Florida, I saw the value of mixed martial arts and knew that this was going to be the future. 

In 2003, I was awarded instructor of the year by North American Grappling Association.

​In 2010, I was given a US patent for the invention of the Ultimate Striker, a tool designed to help martial arts practitioners develop more power in their striking techniques and to increase their conditioning.

​In 2011, I was given the Paul Harris Fellow award for my work in the community.  This organization is devoted to the betterment of humanity.

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