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Tradtional martial arts and self defense taught by certified adult black belt instructors. Classes for all ages. Professional facility. Additional programs. Family discounts.
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Reviews from Jiu-Jitsu Blog members who have trained at American Martial Arts Institute. Member recommendations raise an academy's Jiu-Jitsu Blog Score.
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My youngest daughter started in the Superkicks program when she was 4. She loved it and it was an easy decision to have her continue. Her older sister wasn't interested but agreed to try it after watching her little sis for a while....now both girls are fully engaged, moving up the ranks, and enjoying learning and building upon their skills. The instructors are involved, attentive, encouraging, and supportive while also teaching the students with precision and attention to detail. They set the students up to succeed. The price is extremely affordable, and worth every penny. If you are on the fence trying to decide if this is a worthwhile extracurricular activity for your little ones, I urge you to give it a try- I bet you will be happy that you did.
I started my marital arts journey with AMAI at age 47. I have gone through many changes since then. The school has taught me much about myself in the past few years. How much I will push myself. How fast I will tap out. How hard I will work for my goal. If you are looking for a traditional martial arts school that focuses on the individual... the mind, the body and the spirit, you have a home here. It is here where you will learn more than just one style; Karate, TaeKwonDo, Kung Fu and more. In my short time here I have learned over fifteen Kata for the open hand style and nearly all the Kata for weapons. I have been challenged in every class. The instructors are certified and will push you to your limits, if you let them. There are certificates and documentation everywhere, where you can even follow the lineage of the Grandmaster and how he spent the majority of his life dedicated to his training. I highly recommend this school. There is no other school like it in the area and possibly the northeast!
I’ve been training at the American Martial Arts Institute for over a decade, and I learned much more than i anticipated. They cater to students of all ages, from children to adults, and their teaching methods are highly effective for both groups. If you or your family members are seeking a martial arts school, I highly recommend the American Martial Arts Institute.
I highly recommend American Martial Arts. My son hasn’t been this engaged in any sport or class as he much as he is with this program. He attends every night of the week and can’t wait to return. Every instructor is so kind and knowledgeable and leads with respect and patience. I also see them meet each student exactly where they are, whether they are the highest level black belt or beginner with no experience. So thankful we found this!
My boys have been doing karate a few months now and they absolutely love it! There are so many instructors on the floor to help as well so there was no worries that they would be overlooked. If you want to join karate or have kids that want to join, I highly recommend
I recommend becoming a student. The teachers are knowledgeable, respectful, inspiring, and caring. I always look forward to attending class to learn more. If you are thinking about learning martial arts I believe that this is the place to do it.
I started training when I was 7 years old and have continued for the past 13 years without any desire to stop. This is a traditional martial arts school with traditional values that go beyond just the physical aspect. I have learned self confidence and discipline here that carry over to my every day life. It is a second home to me.
My daughters started at American Martial Arts Institute three years ago and have had such a great experience. They have benefited greatly by the program not only in matters of self defense, but also in matters of self awareness. Having the ability to be in control of their physical balance, coordination and skills while practicing the same concepts mentally will greatly help them in most every aspect of life. The expert instruction they are receiving from all of the masters and senseis at this school is so far above and beyond what I anticipated it can only be compared to the level of professionalism and kindness that they also show. We are very fortunate to benefit by the wealth of knowledge, technique and life lessons that are being taught here.
Returning to the American Martial Arts Institute after years away has been a remarkable experience. The school remains as outstanding as ever, with top-notch instructors who are not only skilled but also deeply dedicated to their students’ growth. The training I received here when I was younger not only provided me with physical and mental skills but also shaped me into the person I am today. The discipline, focus, and values I learned at this school are lessons I continue to cherish. I am so glad I have returned to continue training here. If you're looking for a place that offers a strong foundation in martial arts, both physically and mentally, I highly recommend the American Martial Arts Institute and the American Eagle Style.
My daughter has been taking classes at American martial arts institute for over a year and a half and I have noticed a huge improvement in her focus in school. She loves how comfortable the instructors make her feel and most importantly how fun they make the class.
My daughter has been here for about a year and a half. She absolutely loves going. Very professional instructors as well as very knowledgeable in American Martial Arts. The adult instructors are very good and patient with all of the students in the school. Grand Master Crandall is one of a kind as well as his school. I would recommend American Martial Arts Institute for anyone interested in martial arts.
My son has been training at the American Martial Arts Institute for nine years, and I can’t recommend it enough for both kids and adults. The staff is incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, making it a warm and welcoming place to learn.
The instructors have a real gift for teaching, helping students not only master martial arts techniques but also build confidence and discipline. It feels like a tight-knit community where everyone supports each other. Whether you’re signing up your child or looking to challenge yourself, the American Martial Arts Institute has a way of making you feel right at home while you grow in your martial arts journey.
My son has been going here for over a year now, and we love it!
The instructors are professional, courtious, patient, and fun!
They take the time to make sure your child knows what to do and helps in any way they can.
If you have any questions, they are always there to help you.
Highly recommend!!
My son couldn't really find a sport he likes until he started karate!! He's very excited to go to classes and do well!! All the instructors are amazing in their own way.
My son was interested in trying karate/martial arts. We heard about the American Martial Arts Institute from family and friends. We went to observe a class and my son said he wanted to start immediately. He has classes 2 times a week and never wants to miss a class. He really enjoys being there and we as parents love that he loves it. It helps with his routine, discipline, exercise and mind. We highly recommend it.
I started in December and the school and sensei have been wonderful. Beyond the solid life lessons here the community is a great place.
The forms are filled with history and purpose. Not to harm but to learn about yourself and how to protect. That is pushed in the school.
On a more personal note my work has made it difficult to show up consistently but the school has worked with me too ensure I am still getting the most out of the time both there and away. They also don't hold it against me as a lesser priority. If you're willing and open to learning then they will do their best to show you the way.
American Martial Arts has been an incredible experience for my kids. They absolutely love the classes and are always eager to go back. The instructors are great with children and create a positive, supportive atmosphere. My kids have learned so much and have improved both physically and mentally. They have developed greater confidence, discipline, and respect. I highly recommend American Martial Arts to any parent looking for a fun and educational activity for their kids. My kids are very happy there and I couldn't be more pleased with their progress.
Our kids have been enrolled at the Institute for about four months now. Not only do our kids enjoy it, but as parents we see an incredible benefit of the skills, habits and discipline that is being taught here. The school is well organized and runs a nice operation. The staff is very healthy in numbers and is a key to their success.
We like what we see so far and would recommend this school to anyone.
I have had the great pleasure of studying the martial arts at the American Martial Arts Institute for many years.
You may think you are too old or have too many physical limitations to study the martial arts and earn a black belt, study the Samari sword or cane karate. I can tell you from my personal experience that Grand Master Crandall and my instructor Head Master Eric Stalloch have worked with me through many physical challenges including, but not limited to a double knee replacement and recently back surgery to allow me to continue to train in the martial arts.
When i was discouraged and wanted to give up, they encouraged me and continued to work with me through physical challenges to earn a black belt, to win first place in my division in a Batto competition and to continue my study in cane karate after my recent surgery.
I will be forever grateful for the training, encouragement and sincere caring of Grand Master Crandall and Head Master Stalloch that have enabled me to achieve far beyond what I thought possible, while teaching me the principles of the martial arts that only a traditional martial arts school can offer.
I am grateful that my daughters have an opportunity to learn traditional martial arts with such a dedicated, committed and knowledgeable team of instructors at the American Martial Arts Institute.
My daughter began AMAI in the super kick program, she was 4 years old at the time, she is now 10. The school has made her more confident and thought her how to defend herself. Every time we enter the school my daughter is welcomed by name no matter which instructor is present. I have watched many classes, each time I am consistently impressed by the professionalism of every instructor. Grand Master Crandall is indeed a Master, with over 50 years of experience, he consistently brings a Master level of instruction and communication to each and every student.
This school is amazing , my daughter is very shy and had low confidence.. they help her tremendously with her confidence and socializing.. very structured and tons of fun … my baby received her yellow belt today she was so happy
We have 3 children in classes. Instructors are great with kids. I am confident that my children will be safer in their lives and make sound decisions because of their training. We are proud to be a part of the amai-eagle style family. We highly recommend this school . Thank you
My family has been training in this school for nearly 20 years. The level of expertise and commitment all of the instructors display is amazing! They show empathy and understanding and teach more than just martial arts, they teach life skills as well. I have seen them work with individuals of all ages and abilities. They are flexible and can adapt to the needs of their students! I highly recommend this school!!!
My daughter joined AMAI 2 years ago and just passed the color belt test to become a purple belt! She loves her classes and is very serious about succeeding. In the past, she tried various activities which did not "stick" but this seems to fit her perfectly! The instructors are all very patient and really take the time to help all the children progress.
The Traditional Cane program at the American Martial Arts Institute incorporates both physical and mental training. My fellow students and I were taught ways to strengthen our minds and bodies as we learned to perform specific martial arts techniques.
But our training didn’t stop there—we also learned practical application of the physical techniques, which included how to assess a real-life situation, avoid danger or involvement in an altercation whenever possible, and, as a last resort, efficient application of techniques for self-defense and escape.
I am an older woman, and this knowledge has helped me become more aware of my surroundings and more confident in my ability to defend myself, should I ever need to.
The training space is open, well lit, and comfortable. It is a respectful environment and the professional, yet friendly instructors at AMAI make classes fun and attract a great group of students. Rather than competing against each other, students are encouraged to be supportive and helpful partners when practicing techniques together.
The Traditional Cane program teaches discipline and improves flexibility and fitness, all while acknowledging and adjusting for any physical limitations you may have. Highly recommended!
This school helps relax your mind and is good exercise. My son and I have been here for about 8 years and we think highly of their ways of teaching. When I first checked the school out, I was very impressed on how they handle children. It appeared that all of the instructors knew how to professionally handle every situation. With my son at 7 years old and out of control, this school turned him around totally. He is now 16 years old and is growing up to be the most respectful and mature teenager. I train in the open system which allows me to train with all ranks without having to test for higher belt ranks which means no pressure. I am not able to train as much as I'd like so the open system is perfect for me. The American Martial Arts Institute is like family with results.
When I first joined the American Martial Arts Institute, I had no idea of what was to lie ahead. As I attended classes, tested for higher belt ranks, and learned new techniques, I gained self-confidence. Little did I realize that one day I would become a certified black belt instructor. I would recommend our school to anyone who is interested in studying traditional martial arts.
Every instructor, led by Grandmaster Crandall, is an outstanding and caring professional who helps students both young and old achieve success as martial artists and human beings.
Participating in the martial arts is for anyone and the AMAI is for those desiring to grow as a person while become immersed in the school as more than just a student. Don't let you physical limitations deter you from participating in the martial arts. I myself have bad knees and chronic back pain; my instructors know and understand this. I have been encouraged to push myself to my limitations and have found the strength to exceed farer.
As a student of the school, I have had the distinct pleasure of not only understanding how to develop my physical skills in martial arts, but in addition I feel I have developed a greater sense of character and confidence. It should also be mentioned that the knowledge supplied from the books and DVDs also help to develop a greater sense of the philosophy surrounding the school, as well as the special subjects of many of the books themselves. As a college student living on a campus alone, I personally find that the book "Women's Self Defense in a Changing World" is very valuable to understand not only how to defend oneself, but also a thorough look at common dangers and how to escape them before even requiring the techniques in the book, but also a holistic approach to the subject of female self defense as a whole.
I have always respected the Martial Arts and found it to be very fascinating. As an adult, I did not think it was possible to do Martial Arts. I had an unexpected major reconstructive back surgery (this was my 2nd back surgery), which took me a year to recover and return back to work and back to living life again. After clearance from my surgeon, and spending a couple years of watching my youngest son who was involved in the Martial Arts, as well as speaking with one of the Master Instructors, I decided to join the American Eagle Martial Arts Institute. I have since accomplished my 2nd rank brown belt, and am working toward my goal of black belt and maybe an instructor myself some day. I am honored to learn from Grandmaster Clifford C. Crandall, Jr. and the other talented instructors. I see this knowledge passed on to me as a one of the wonderful gifts in life. The Martial Arts is a life long journey with much to be learned and respected, and I am certainly enjoying the challenge; mentally, emotionally and physically as I strive to be the best I can be.
~Erica Miscione
Wonderful place to clear the mind, strengthen body and grow! An exceptional example of a traditional martial arts school with a long history, and a pool of knowledge that is both broad and deep.
I have been practicing at this dojo for many years now. I am currently a blue belt and so far my experiences training here, have been fun and educational.
Very supportive environment. Instruction is conducted in a manner to sharpen both your mental focus and improve your physical abilities. The combination of the comradery of my fellow classmates in combination with the challenge of the American Eagle Cane Style of study helped me cope with my personal challenges during our COVID lock down. Instructors are Masters and exhibit their professionalism always. Great balance between challenge and understanding. If you are an older student and aren't sure whether or not you'd "fit" doing karate, I highly encourage you to come observe an American Eagle Cane style class.
I highly recommend for anyone interest in learning the Martial Arts - Our daughter started with American Martial Arts Institute in their Superkicks Program when she was 3 and has been a student for the past 9 years. You can easily see the passion that each of the instructors have in regards to the martial arts and in passing their knowledge on to their students.
The School offers an opportunity for anyone regardless of age and or physical limitations to learn and train in the Martial Arts.
Additionally, they offer seminar programs from time to time such as a Women's Self Defense - I love this program!! I have attended several and each time it is offered I try to attend as I always learn something new. If you are a female and or have a daughter I HIGHLY Encourage you to take this class!
As a parent, and student myself, I also appreciate the time, effort, and strong desire that the school has towards community involvement.
I highly recommend the American Martial Arts Institute as an excellent school. They offer classes to students starting at age 3 in the Super Kick Program right up through adults, even senior citizens! I started training in the Empty Hand Style in 2010 at the age of 66 and later enrolled in the Cane Style. My training with the American Martial Arts Institute has definitely helped me maintain both physical and mental fitness.
I have trained in the martial arts for over 40 years in multiple styles and on several continents. Only this school has presented traditional martial arts philosophy and practical self defense in an organized and easy to learn format.
I joined the American Martial Arts Institute in my 50s, ready for a change and a challenge. It is an excellent martial arts school in which people from all walks of life learn and develop with a strong sense of shared purpose. The teaching by all instructors, at all levels, is carefully coordinated and very effective. In addition to training, one learns about the culture of the martial arts and the international traditions that shape this style. It is a whole education—body and mind. As the parent of a teenager who has spent ten years at the school, I’ll add that this is a great place for children to develop self-discipline, grit, and the ability to pursue and achieve long-term goals.
The Instructors for the young Martial Arts Students under six years of age make the classes fun and educational. They have an abundance of patience with the more "active" little ones. They have a calmness that helps draw the students in and the training is age suitable and very productive. I see a difference each week in his enthusiasm and attention level.
The American Martial Arts institute is a martial arts school that is in my opinion a step above the rest when it comes to the history behind the style, the community built around the school, and the skill of the instructors teaching the style to others. I have been a student of this school for almost half of my life now, and I think that to me what the most important thing the school has done for me, is that it has taught me to discipline myself not just physically, but mentally as well. I think that a lot of the value that others will find in this school that you won't find in other martial arts schools or gyms is the fact that the school truly focuses on giving a more traditional martials are experience, teaching discipline of the body and mind. I highly recommend this school, as I think that there is something for everybody in training here.
As both a parent and student, I have seen the positive effects this school has had on our entire family. My daughters have become more physically fit, more confident and even more personally responsible. I personally have grown in many areas as well. As someone in their mid to late 40’s I was hesitant to start training but the program this school has developed allows me to progress to levels of skill I originally thought to be out of reach. Joining this school stands to be one of the best decisions I have made both personally and as a father.
I’ve been training in at the American Martial Arts Institute for about 11 years now. I’m now a part of the red top leader ship program. This school has helped me mature as a young adult and has taught me how to be a good martial artist. This school doesn’t only teach you about self defense but it teaches you about life skills and lessons that you might need one day.
My daughter, Marlena Vennette, started attending American Martial Arts Institute at the age of 9 and she is now 13. She tends to be on the very quiet side and the growth in 4 years time has been amazing. She not only exhibits more focus, strength, discipline and respect but she shows so much more self confidence in every day life. The Instructors take the time to focus on both the strength and weakness of each student and are able to bring out student individuality, doing so in a very professional manner. I would recommend this school of Martial Arts for children of all ages.
The quality of martial arts instruction here is unparalleled. I have had the privilege of training under Grandmaster Crandall for 39 years. His lifetime pursuit of educational excellence is reflected in all aspects of this school with its emphasis on traditional values, self-discipline, respect for others, and service to the community. The professional staff and certified adult black belt instructors lead by example and help students of all ages and abilities become the best they can be through their training.
As I think back in time (11 years) when we brought my grandson to the American Martial Arts School. I was very impressed with how they helped him in his life and it took me a few years to join ( I joined both empty hand and cane) and it's the best decision I ever made. The instructors are excellent, great atmospher and a great learning experience. In case anyone is wondering I started 5 years ago and I'm 67, so I may not be a kid, but it has helped me in so many ways in my life just within the last five years., and I thank them for that.
My family started with American Martial Institute 30+ years ago. Beginning training at age 40, I thought I would do it for a couple of years to learn self defense. I soon discovered that there is so much more to it! There is always something new to learn. One thing as a parent that I liked is that the certified black belt instructors never touch the students. They demonstrate techniques buy using another black belt instructor. I now also participate in the American Eagle Cane Style. One last comment; it’s FUN!
In my 5 years training here, I have learned much more than how to kick and punch. It has made me stronger both physically and mentally, and has given me more discipline and focus. The instructors here do a great job of teaching and trying to get you to push yourself. With the martial arts, you will only get as much out as what you put in.
We have had several children in the American Martial Arts Institute ranging all ranks and starting at several different ages. Our youngest daughter is in the Superkicks program, she absolutely loves it. Everyone there is very professional, they treat you like family. We would recommend them to anyone who wants to give martial arts a try at any age!!!
I began my training 40 years ago for the physical exercise. Shortly afterward I realized there was so much more in developing oneself in traditional martial arts other than the physical.
Through my years in this school I have been encouraged to extend myself both personally and professionally outside of my comfort zone which has contributed to my growth and development.
I continue learning under Grandmaster Crandall as a Master Instructor but also in some of the other disciplines offered through this school; Iaido/Batto and Kendo.
Both training and teaching are so rewarding. I am very appreciative to Grandmaster Crandall and my fellow karateka for my development physically, but also so importantly, my improved self-confidence and its positive impact on my life.
My journey began at the American Martial Arts Institute over 11 years ago when I brought my then 6 year old son to the school to being training. I was looking for a traditional martial arts school that had instructors certified to work with young children. I had trained in a non-tradiitional style in my late teens and early 20's and knew what I was NOT looking for... Eight years ago, I decided to leave the "peanut gallery" aka parent viewing area, to begin training as a 48 year old adult. I love the traditions taught at the school, and I take full advantage of all of the classes and styles offered at the school. The American Martial Arts Institute truly offers something for everyone of all ages in the family. The American Eagle Cane Style classes teach adults to train their minds and bodies in self defense using a wooden cane - which I sometimes use as a walking assistance device. I am proud to say that a wall in my home is adorned with several Black Belt Certificates for both mother and son!
"The family that kicks together, sticks together!"
I started taking my son for martial arts lessons here 21 years ago when he was 4 years old and before moving out of state for college he achieved his black belt and gained maturity and discipline through their professional and traditional approach to training. About 15 years ago, I left the parent/peanut gallery and joined my son in training at AMAI under Grand Master Crandall and recently tested for 4th Dan black belt.
I love the focus on traditional Katas and the self defense skills which give structure to what ends up being a good work out. As a doctor in cardiology I always told my patients to exercise but had trouble finding something that was both physically challenging and mentally interesting but the American Martial Arts Institute fits the bill
The American Martial Arts Institute is the best martial arts school I've ever seen. I started at this school when I was eight, and thirteen years later I continue to enjoy training here. They care about their students and push them to do their best. I highly recommend them.
I was 10 when I started training at this school. The instructors at this school have become my family, and the lessons I’ve learned here over the last 18 years have helped me develop personally and professionally. I find many of the ethics learned have helped me advance through my career. I find great fulfillment in teaching other students who come to our school as I did and completing the circle of traditional training.
As a practicing Martial Artist & Instructor in the American Eagle Style for many years, I am impressed with the amount of high ranking female black belt instructors present at the school.
I have trained at American Martial Arts Institute for more than 30 years. The training I receive at the school has made such a positive impact on every aspect of my daily life and the community that I live in.
