Ohana Academy of Martial Arts

My son has been studying with Sensei Rich for over a year and loooooooooves it here! He’s already learned so much, and Sensei is great with all the children.

This place is great! All of his students definitely learn a lot. His patience with the students goes a long way with beginners and experienced students. Great place to take kids to learn Jujitsu and Kempo!

My daughter is five years old and started in January with Sensei Richard. I cannot say enough good things about this class and neither can my daughter. She looks forward to class every time and can’t wait to go twice a week.
Techniques are taught to the kids in a way where every move is done in slow motion and explained in detail. They go over it again and again. The kids are really worked hard in every class, but it’s absolutely nothing my five year old girl can’t handle.
Classes range in size from 2 – 3 kids to 10 depending on who shows up on a given day. No matter what size the class is, children are given individual attention and higher skilled children are paired with lower skilled children when possible.
There is definitely an air of comradery with the children. They work well together and help each other out. Most of all they have FUN!!!
The fees are completely reasonable at $ 100/​month for as few or as many lessons you’d like to attend. For the kids my daughters age there are group classes twice a week and sparring opportunities twice a week, so you can go up to 16x/​month if you’d like.
Not sure if your kid will like it? You can show up during a group class and jump in for free.
Bottom line? You will absolutely not regret signing up at Ohana.

Both senseis (Rich and Christian) are great with kids of all ages. It is a hard working atmosphere but they make it fun as well. Very friendly place and they truly care about the students.
Don’t know much about the adult classes but they appear to be good as well. Rich and Christian are both hands-​on. Would recommend Ohana to anyone.

Long live Ohana Academy… these other reviews already captured the vibe of this dojo. We would follow Sensei Richard where ever he may pass on his knowledge of the arts. I can’t over emphasize his passion and dedication to this sport. He also teaches the kids respect and discipline in ways they don’t get at home or at school. Come on out and check us out. Everyone thinks their place is the best but you will see the difference here. By the way, the dads like to work out here too.

I signed up my son and myself at the Ohana Academy about 1 ½ years ago. What a great experience it has been! My son loves the classes there and the instruction is top notch. He is learning everything from traditional karate to jiujitsu (basically wrestling). I like that he learns discipline, with out the instructors coming off as some kind of bad Cobra Kai — Karate Kid imitation. As for myself, I enjoy the detailed instruction of the teachers (Rich and Christian) in the adult class and the close comaradery of the students. The focus is on drills and conditioning, with light sparring at the end of class on most days. What really sets the instruction apart in my opinion, is that the science behind the mechanics and body movements are explained in detail, so that you left with the understanding of WHY certain moves and positions work. This allows you to make adjustments when you encounter a new situation or move that was not exactly how you practiced it. If you are looking to get a great workout and to have fun in an easy going atmosphere, look no further.

Ohana means Family and that is the feeling you get when you walk through the door. Head Instructor Richard Merryman came from a very Traditional background and he captures the True meaning of Martial Arts. He passes this on to his students through discipline, integrity and humility all while having a great time! It’s also a great workout and the best way to stay in shape physically and mentally.
Troy Barnum — Sandan, Danzan Ryu Jujitsu/​Nidan, Shorin Ryu Karate

Meh…