Leaders for Life Martial Arts

Extremely positive and negative reviews here, truth is somewhere in the middle.1) Belt factory, yes. They give out black belts to kids who have put in two years but may not have the forms and basics down. But like any martial art/sport, you get out of it what you put into it.2) EXPENSIVE. $100/month, PLUS - graduations every 8 weeks ($50), overpriced foam weapons & gear, seminars/camps. "Leadership" program - $150/month & a REQUIRED 3 YEAR COMMITMENT, you owe $5400 once you sign, even if your kid quits. Ignore pressure to enter leadership; don't enter a long-term contract with ANY MA school before a 6 month trial.4) VERY GOOD INSTRUCTORS. Mrs. and Mr. Newberry are 6th deg. black belts (deservedly), and fantastic teachers. Melanie (their daughter) teaches the "tiny tigers" and really motivates kids. Other staff is skilled too.Do give it a try - look for 1 month membership FREE + uniform offers from them. But keep a level head when Mr. Newberry delivers the sales pitch.

They are absolutely unethical at Newberry's! Every single session ends with the teacher's asking the kids, "who wants to come to our special glow in the dark numchuk class," or "who wants to go to a bowling party?" Which, of course, all the kids would LOVE to do! But, let me ask them, "who can afford to take their kids to Newberry's Tae Kwon Do, and do all these extra classes? NOT MANY PEOPLE! In a time where many people are losing their jobs and in financial crisis, parents, including myself, are still trying to allow our children to take part in extracurricular activities. This is one place where they try and convince the kids to BEG their parents to go to these extra events, that are NOT cheap! It is extremely unfair for us parents to have to constantly say no to our kids who would like to go to all these special parties and classes, but can barely afford their Tae Kwon Do lessons. They are so unethical and only care about making money it makes me sick! I am shocked that the

Was initially concerned about high cost, but found it well worth it. My son was so inflexible our pediatrician recommended seeing a specialist...but now people are amazed at his ability to kick over his head and nearly do the splits. Instruction is first class...two of my kids are now World Champions. Newberrys clearly care deeply about all of their students and teach positive life/character skills along with taekwondo techniques (my kids are no longer introverted).I can heartily recommend Newberry's Black Belt Academy whether you're just looking for a workout/physical training or serious competition.

I repeat, DO NOT sign on the dotted line. This is a horrible example of a martial arts academy. ALL, I repeat, ALL they care about is your pocketbook! They graduate you to the next belt (which is a FIFTY!! dollar fee) even if you don't know the moves from the previous belt. You are expected to pay $100 a month PLUS $50 every 6 weeks PLUS buy extremely expensive (think 200-300 dollars worth) of equipment that your child does not even need. Like foot, hand, everything else guards so that your 4 year old won't hurt his hand when it taps a padded bag???? They also let children that are WAY too immature into their classes which takes away from the older more mature kids. Think 3 year olds that need ritalin running around and not listening - sounds conductive to a organized class about discipline, doesn't it? If I could give it 0 stars I would, but unfortunately I had to give it a ONE (undeserved) star. Go elsewhere - preferably a place that doesn't make you sign a binding contract f

I disagree with the statements written previously. I have all of my children in this school. They are 10/14/15/16. They are doing very well and have flourished personally from this experience. The weapons are their favorite. You are not required to purchase from the school. You can get your equipment from ebay, like I did. That is choice. Instead of slandering a locally owned Company, why not take the issue to the source? Or write them a letter, if you fear confrontation? Bottom line, any formal instruction and or lessons for children are expensive, no matter the activity. Simply, this may have not been your cup of tea. As for the 3 year portion of your statement, not true. They offer many programs, starting with basic for a year. The length of time required t train to a belt level. This is not a seasonal sport. It is a commitment for the parent and child. Your comments may have prevented a parent from providing this opportunity for their children. Too bad. I say try it for 90

Lack of quailty in instuction, overpriced, and far from the true focus of any real martial art school.

If you want to pay $100 a month on a three year contract for substandard instruction, go here. This school is all about the money and not about the student. It's all about the upgrades, add-ons, etc. When you hear the term "belt factory" you can think of the Newberry's school. Students get to graduate to the next belt even if they are no where near ready because that means more money for the school in terms of fees, gear, and weapons.Take you time and find a school that works with you and not just works for your money.