Hello Moms,
My eight year old son has been taking Aikido lessons for over two years and loving it. Last week we found out that the school is closing. My son has some developmental issues and needs a non-aggressive martial arts school. Does anyone know of a good Aikido, Judo, or Traditional Kung Fu school in the West valley? I appreciate any help. Thanks, R.
Thank you so much to everyone who wrote. I got some terrific suggestions and am now sifting through them and making calls. I love this site, because all of you are such wonderful resouces and so willing to help.
Thank you.
My friend uses a facility on West Bell rd. Right next to AU SO restaurant on 75th ave South of Bell. I am really not sure of the name, but it has been one they really liked. maybe you can find it in the phone book ?
Maybe taekwondo could be another option for your son. It's unarmed combat directed toward neutralizing an aggressor. My coworker's husband is the master instructor at World Taekwondo (81st Ave/Union Hills) and he's a very kind and gentle man. Not sure if you're looking to make a change to a different martial art though.
Hi R., I have recently moved to the West Valley (and Arizona) we signed up with Atkinson's Martial Arts on Deer Valley between 91st and 83rd Ave. They are great with the kids. I would highly recommend them if they are conviently located for you. The phone number is: 623-825-DOJO
Good Luck,
J.
I remember recently seeing a sign for a new martial arts school. I cannot remember if it was on Estrella parkway and McDowell (near Rubio's and Paradise Bakery) or if it was on Estrella Parkway just south of I-10 (just south of Walmart near the Pizza Hut and Chinese restaurant). I have no idea what kinds of martial arts are taught there. Either way, if you live this far west, it would be worth looking into.
Hi R.,
My son just started lessons at United Martial Arts. They have three locations but he attends at the Avondale location (124th Ave/Indian School). They also have locations at 91st Ave/Union Hills and Beardsley/Stardust. I'm not sure what problems your son has but this particular studio gives two private lessons before they attend class so they have a good idea of what they are to do before entering the class. The class is pretty fast paced though so if there are some learning or motor planning problems, it is probably not the right choice. My son is doing really well though and really likes the instructor. Good luck in your search. You will find the right fit if you ask questions.
Hi R.,
I hope it's not too late to respond to this but I have to tell you about my sons Taekwondo school. It's at 59th Ave. and Greenway. It's just called glendale taekwondo. It says karate on the building but its not. The people there are great. It is a self defence martial art and Mr. Rigdon is great with kids and teaching respect. All the kids have a great time and its not too serious. I highly recomend checking it out. I used to live in peoria but we moved to el mirage and I still take out there.
-K.
