American Defensive Arts Academy

What a great school for all ages! They work well with the kids and help them learn the moves as they discuss application in the real world. The focus is more on defensive and avoiding the physical confrontation. The lessons are engaging and keep children interested so they aren’t distracted by other things. It is easy to grab any instructor and ask him/​her a question or get personal assistance on moves.
They have developed an app to help you practice at home so you have videos that correspond with your belt requirements.
We did a lot of research on the right form of martial arts and asked around on schools. This one sounded the best. We definitely made the right choice!

I can’t say enough good things about American Defensive Arts Academy in Keller. As an Aikido student, we are privileged to be instructed each week by San Dan Martinez Sensei, one of the best instructors of anything that I have ever had. His curriculum combines elements from Karate, Silat, Pekiti Tersia Kali, Boxing, and other arts which gives us an extremely well-​rounded and practical training experience. We’re often treated to having high ranking instructors from other schools instruct us, as well as frequent visits from our very own Master Christopher Folmar and Shihan Randall Bonifay Sensei. Classes are balanced between open hand techniques, tradition Aikido weapons, and practical weapons that we are more likely to encounter. It’s never routine, there’s always something new being introduced that either the instructors or students have picked up. I highly recommend coming out for a visit — you’ll be hooked!

Aikido?!? What?!? My brother gifted me Aikido classes for Christmas, and I thought seriously?!? I’m a mother of two, work full time, and I honestly never even considered entering the world of martial arts. I could not be more thankful that he did. Aikido has changed my life for the better. It helped me to get out of the «mom slump» and gain back my confidence. Sensei Martinez presented the class in such a way that I never felt as though I was a beginner or in the way. He takes the time to explain real life situations, and has a vast knowledge of the art. I would highly recommend this Aikido class to anyone, any size, any shape, any background.

I am the father of two boys who are now 13 and 10 yrs old. They each started their karate journeys in this dojo at the age of 5 yrs. The experience has meant so much for them both not only with respect to maintaining physical fitness but also in their acquisition of positive values. This school is not a belt mill. Every achievement is earned and no one tests until the master of the school Chris Folmar believes they are ready. At this point, they have earned their Shodan 1^st degree black belts after about 5 ½ years of work. I am pleased to offer my highest praise and appreciation! I recommend ADAA without a shred of reservation!