Review: Sarah Bricker

Premier Martial Arts found ME. I’ve had a growing interest in Japanese culture over the last few years, as well as in martial arts in general. I happened to be on FB one day, and came across an ad for a local karate facility; I was click-baited. I called, and they offered me four free classes for me AND for my kiddo! 1 private, 1 semi private, and 2 with their regular classes, plus a free uniform! In some cases, I don’t like being “bribed” to become a consumer, but in this case, I was thrilled to have the chance to get to know the teaching style, instructors, and my son’s interest level before committing with $’s down (the commitment is one year at a time) but the upside is that after paying for two students, anyone else in the family can be trained for free.
My son has been training for about a month now, and I am very satisfied with the experience thus far. Mr. Gibson, the instructor, is clearly well trained and disciplined himself, and is very good at meeting the kids where they are, as well as teaching the skills in the way young kids can learn without losing authenticity. There is not really a focus on meditation, but definitely a high focus on discipline, empowerment, and character building. They have a creed that they recite at each class (which I love!) and there are two themes each month, one of the heart (like honesty) and one of the body (like accuracy), and the students are tested on these each month to earn a stripe on their belts. They are tested quarterly for advancement to another belt color. And badges of integrity can be earned at your own pace (they take commitment at home). Plus the physical exercise is great to help my son get some energy out.
The instructors are very good at using the whole 30 minutes for each session, but there isn’t a break in between classes, so there’s no time to talk to an instructor afterward, which is disappointing since my son often has questions (or comments haha).
The facility (FW Coldwater Rd. location) is very clean, and they have many tools to assist with training. The biggest disappointment is the size of the space they rent in the building. It’s quite a tight fit for parents who sit to watch, plus all the students’ gear, and you have to cross the training space to use the restroom or talk in a private office.
Lastly, I am pleased that it’s a family business; even though Premier is franchised, the business manager of the local facility is the owner’s daughter (great administration skills and friendly), and the instructor completed his training alongside the owner. It’s family friendly (I never feel uncomfortable bringing my 1 year old along) and my son finishes every session by running to me with open arms and a wide grin. We are very happy to be there