Patrick Kelly

Update: I've been training now with John Geyston and Gage Blevins for over 2 and 1/2 years now and can't recommend this place enough. John trains with Royler and has multiple seminars a year at our gym, and he evens trains with Rickson on occasion for privates. We truly have a great gym. Great place for adults and kids. Love all the energy from the teachers and students to be active. I've been attending Empower Martial Arts since May 2022 and have learned so much. John and his team create an amazing environment to learn and be part of the family. Amazing seminars with Rpyler Gracie and other back belts. They are constantly upping the training for all the students.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Krysta Garavuso

Jiu Jitsu is brand new to me and completely outside of my comfort zone and admittedly when I arrived at my first free trial class, I was actually pretty terrified to walk in. But I had been wanting to do this for so long that I went in anyway, and I am so glad that I did. I met John (the owner) and Amy, as soon as I walked in and they made me feel so much better right away. Within the first 10 minutes of the class I was hooked. With just a couple self-defense practices, I could already feel my confidence growing. Empowerment indeed. I have now completed 2 classes and will be going back for more. An absolutely wonderful group of people that I immediately felt comfortable with. For anyone struggling with confidence and seeking a new way of life for the mind, body and spirit, I highly recommend checking out Empowered Martial Arts & Gracie Humaita Jiu Jitsu!!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Silk Da Barber

I've had a positive experience with Empowered Martial Arts & Gracie Humaita Jiu Jitsu Tampa, and being excited to continue learning from them. It's excellent that they've demonstrated professional ethics and provided a structured learning environment that goes beyond just physical techniques, also incorporating the mental and historical aspects of the martial art. Empowered Martial Arts & Gracie Humaita Jiu Jitsu Tampa is providing a holistic approach to martial arts training, focusing on both physical and mental development. By offering tools for mental and physical stability, they're empowering students to achieve a better balance in their lives. They've shown me that Jiu Jitsu is a fantastic discipline for physical and mental growth, and it's wonderful and has made me eager to become a "force multiplier" – implying that I want to become a skilled practitioner who can make a positive impact. Thank you very much, Rick

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Posted 2 years ago

Ivonne y Sergio Chamorro

We are more than thankful with Empowered for the positive effect it had on our 4 year old son. He had the opportunity to attend Empowered Academy for 3 months, until we had to move from Tampa. And it was the best experience for him, he gained confidence, discipline.. I have a lot of videos of his classes and he sees them everyday. We wish we could have take the academy with us! Thank you Sensei Gage and Team!

Instructors Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Jennifer Mann

We have been attending Empowered for about two years. During that time span we have witnessed our young son grow from a young seven year old to a mature nine year old. He has stepped up in responsibility and helps the younger children that are members of the academic community. He has also grown in such a manner that he rarely backs down from a challenge and isn’t afraid to try new things. Kudos to the Empowered staff for their patience with him. They are not only good at teaching martial arts, they are great at assisting parents in the tasks of growing children into their potential… one thirty minute class at a time!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Saida Kamil

Empowered Martial Arts has been transformative for my kids. They have developed confidence and discipline since joining the program. The instructors are excellent, not only teaching martial arts skills but also instilling essential life values. It's been incredible to see these positive changes extend beyond the mat into their everyday lives. As a school volunteer, I've witnessed significant transformations in other children as well. Kids who initially struggled with rules and focus have become more attentive, respectful, and responsible. Empowered Martial Arts is a vital part of our community, helping to shape well-rounded, confident, and respectful young individuals. I'm truly grateful for their dedication and the positive impact they've had on our children.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Ariel Perez

So besides the fact that they'd always keep you informed about schedules and training opportunities they also would contact you about your child advances and recommendations, but I was also very pleased about getting a personal call from the trainer himself to let me know about my child's progress and he took the time to listen to my concerns about my kid not being completely engaged, using the classes as play time rather than actually learning and we worked on a course of actions to be implemented to correct the situation. Here your opinion really matters.

Instructors

Posted 2 years ago

CA PRACHI JAIN

I recently joined an amazing jiu-jitsu class Empowered martial arts and Gracie humanitarian jiu-jitsu Tampa located in Tampa Florida that exceeded all my expectations. Here are the highlights: Instructor Expertise The instructor was highly knowledgeable and experienced, with a deep understanding of both fundamental and advanced techniques. Their ability to break down complex moves into understandable steps made learning enjoyable and effective. Structure and Curriculum The class was well-structured, beginning with a thorough warm-up to prepare our bodies. The curriculum was thoughtfully planned, progressing logically from basic drills to more complex sparring sessions. Each technique was demonstrated clearly, and ample time was given for practice. Atmosphere The atmosphere was supportive and friendly. Fellow students were encouraging, fostering a sense of camaraderie. This positive environment made it easy for beginners to feel comfortable while also providing a challenging experience for more advanced practitioners. Facilities The training facility was clean and well-maintained, with high-quality mats and equipment. Safety was a top priority, with clear instructions on how to practice safely to avoid injuries. Benefits By the end of the class, I felt more confident in my jiu-jitsu abilities. The physical workout was intense but rewarding, and the mental focus required was a great stress reliever. The class also emphasized discipline and respect, which are valuable life skills. Overall, this jiu-jitsu class was an enriching experience that I highly recommend to anyone interested in martial arts, whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Karina Batista

Is an amazing academy, very concerned about the kids progress. Great teachers. It’s feel like we are family. My son love it. So I’m. Great job guys.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Anya

Mi hijo ama el lugar, las clases son muy divertidas y con mucha energía para los niños pequeños, tienen motivación por parte del profesor

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Samuel Smith

Love John and his team. They have helped Ryan with his confidence and bullying at school. Our child loves it and they are very patient with kids who have special needs. Definitely recommend for family self defense!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Олеся Воргина

This is a cool place. We have been visiting for over a year now and are very pleased. My son loves studying here. Great coaches and entire staff. Convenient location, parking. They love children here!!!!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Thanhha Nguyen

All the kids in my family started going since summer and they love it. The place is nice and clean. Staffs are super friendly and patient with kids especially little one. Would recommend to any age groups

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Santo Equale

I have been training for about 6 months now with Empowered Martial Arts and it has been a life changing experience! Thank you to all the awesome instructors!

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Kristine Le

My daughters loved it there since the first day they tried out their first class. They have been there for over a month and still loving it. Everyone there is so kind and respectful. Love the friendliness, energy, and positive vibe. Thank you.

Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Cameron Moore

I have fun every time I go and always learning. Fun group of people to be around and balance training and safety really well.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

nate rivera

Great atmosphere, staff is very knowledgeable. I’ve been practicing jiujitsu for about 10 months and absolutely love it . It’s a great form of exercise and really helps with your self discipline. Come in and try it! Hanshi John will lead you in the right direction.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Jony Nazar

These guys are rocking! My 9 years old started taking classes and he loves going there. Owners are super sweet couple. The instructor for kids is awesome as well. He definitely learned the trick to keep kids focused and entertained at the same time. I also respect that they promote discipline and respect during classes. Highly recommend this place

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Sunil Sagar

Great teachers and awesome experience for my 6 year old son. He has learned so much in the last 1 year. We love it!!!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Chayla Otano

Súper agradecida

Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Hassan Cedeno

Amazing environment for the kids. They learn discipline, respect and build confidence. Also they have a lot of fun.

Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Valerie Rojas

We absolutely love Empowered Martial Arts! My children continuously learn discipline, defense, and have so much fun while doing it. Hanshi John and Sempai Gage are phenomenal instructors. The Empowered Martial Arts team and the families we have met all feel like extended family, and we're so glad that we decided to enroll our kids in this program!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Helen Moulis

Our 3 year old goes here for the Tiny Tigers class and is loving it. They do a really good job handling this age and making it fun. It’s not traditional martial arts for this age, but more of a play structure that helps to teach basics and principals in an approachable format. We’re using it to build confidence, gross motor skills, and focus.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Zahra Raztam

Very pleased with this place, they teach the kids ethics, sport, self confidence! Thank you for all what you do!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Famine 4HG

My old school closed down and was introduced to the staff of the school from an old sensei. Needless to say it’s been 6 months and I love it. They really do put in time and repetition with every student of all ages and are completely understanding of situations. Events are planned out in a timely manner and just the overall feel of all the students working together is great. I have recommended this place to others because I’m confident its a place they would love!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Aisha Paruh

I really liked how friendly we were greeted. with such care and kindness. My son Ali really enjoyed his first training session and his first broken plank. Thank you ♥️

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Joshua Mann

Empowered's phenomenal instructors let me work with my teenage daughter's comfort level to ease her back into classes. She dislikes physical contact with people she doesn't know and trust well. Letting her work just with me overcame many barriers to getting her back into it, and she started to play around a little bit as the classes progressed. She only plays around when she feels comfortable. It may be a while before she's ready to work with others, but that will come with time. The lessons are good, and good context is given about how the techniques fit into the bigger picture of self-defense and situational awareness. For example, knowing that passing the guard would be focused on for the following several classes helps to contextualize the practices. Breaking down the techniques shows how and, more importantly, when and why the techniques are helpful. Empowered lets us work at our own pace. As an older athlete, this lets me learn without getting wiped out. The pacing also gives me space to give details and context to my teenager without involving the whole class. This helps her get more comfortable as well. Additionally, exposing the kids to the life lessons provided along with the techniques is a huge bonus. Kids often hear things from others they respect, which they tune out from their parents as part of their normal growing-up process. If you are looking for a place to begin or continue martial arts for your children or yourself, Empowered is a great, safe place to do so. As a general statement, this organization stands head and shoulders above other martial arts organizations I've been a part of. My experience has been great, and it has only improved over time. Thanks for all you do.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Heather hall

Empowered Martial Arts & Gracie Humaita is an AMAZING establishment! My son loves it & the staff is such a pleasure, you can see every employee is there because of their passion. Being a mother of a boy with ALOT of energy makes it uneasy at times worrying HOW my child is going to act when we get there (you know what I’m talking about lol) but they are truly exceptional at handling each child along with their energy and do it with such grace. I’m telling you, you won’t be disappointed.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Kams B

This is our third week in their summer program and our kids love it. The instructors are very nice and professional. Owner is very flexible and accommodating. We didn’t feel pressured at all during signing up process. We really appreciate this place!

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Melissa Bidgood

We absolutely love Empowered! The staff has made us feel like family and have mentored our son for over a year. Highly recommend.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Renae Kelly

My husband has been training for a year now with Empowered Martial Arts and he loves it!!! Our son and daughter have been in and out through sports and love the EMPOWERED teachers.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

The Produce Industry Podcast

We have been enrolled with Empowered Martial Arts for 1 YEAR now and we are loving it. John Geyston and his team of instructors are great to be around and they are fantastic with the kids. We love bringing our kids here and us!! #amazing

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Alex Wright

Excellent kids program and really welcoming atmosphere for adults too! Started my kid first and then started myself!

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Robin Patel

Always welcoming and a fun environment with great learning! Thx Empowered!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Lizandra Cárdenas

Este lugar es genial para los mas chiquitos de casa (para los adultos tambien). No solo los educan en como defenderse y protegerse pero tambien les enculcan la disciplina, el respeto y a ser responsables. Los instructores son espectaculares y el ambiente es muy seguro.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Vanessa Rodriguez

We could not be happier to be at Empowered! When Premiere Martial Arts in Northdale closed we were worried about how and where Liam could continue his martial arts journey and thankfully we continued trusting Coach Rocky and took his recommendation to join the Empowered team. We are going on 3 months and it has all the qualities we loved about PMA and more! Senpai Renchi and Senpai Gage offer a great balance of structure and patience.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Sonia Rojas

My 12yro Son who's 5'7" and 180pds is a big Care Bear and very big hearted, was having trouble fitting in at school. Since he started going to Empowered about a year ago he has shown a huge change in his confidence. When he's stressed from school and goes to Jujitsu class, when I pick him up, he gets in my car sweaty, tired and with a big smile... He says "I really needed that Mom". He's not only getting a great workout but he's also learning how to use his size and weight to his advantage. Hanshi John and the other instructors are incredible and have taught my son so much. We are proud to be part of the Empowered family.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Marquita Myrick

Our son loves it here! We've seen improvements in his behavior and his confidence is being built while he learns self defense skills. The staff (Sempai Gage and Renshi Zack) are kind, professional and have a healthy way of interacting with kids. I've seen how kids with behavioral issues are treated at other facilities and you'd be amazed at how they gently respond and redirect kids who are having a difficult time self-regulating during class. Sempai Gage and Renshi Zach take their time in helping the kids develop the skills and the owner, John, has the patience of a saint when a kid loses belief in their ability to break a board during belt test. I witnessed this recently! Amy always greets people with a smile and is more than willing to answer questions and engage kids positively as well. These are the types of martial arts leaders that leave long lasting impressions on kids who become strong representatives of our communities. Thank you all for what you do here.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Javier Ramos Garcia

Great place to train, techniques are taught with attention to detail, family oriented. John, Zach and Gage a true professionals

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Jasween Chhabda

A learnable experience with kids. Coaches are amazing. Kids love to be there.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Justyn Acord

Just had my first class here. The staff were pleasant and courteous. Being 41, walking in with no experience, I was nervous what to expect. They wanted to know my goals and walked through me through the programs to find what would help me achieve those goals. Would highly recommend.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Alicia Dela Cruz

As a parent of a very active 4yo, I wanted him to have a place that he would have fun and look forward to attending, but also where he would learn a skill (coordination, discipline, respect for others) outside of what he learns at home. That being said, I also know we have somewhat anxious little guy who can be very nervous in new situations. We attended a 1:1 class to help him dip his toes in the water. From the time we walked in, to the time we walked out, this kid transformed. The same could be said for his first day in “the big class.” With some firm nudging, he went out on the mat. He stood in the back very intimidated, that was until the other students began practicing some of the same skills he learned in his 1:1. Again, I got to watch his confidence explode (think Mentos in a bottle of coke). By the end of class he was asking to go back. He attends 2 days a week, with a possible 3rd day if he so chooses, which he normally does. He will also show you what he has learned in class either effective blocks, repeating mantras, or take down moves. I’m so excited for his excitement. I love that he has found something he is so passionate about even at such a young age. I can see his confidence has increased not only here, but at his other activities as well. What a game changer this was for us!! So grateful for the studio and everyone there. They have been so welcoming and helpful along the way.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Fabian VF

After looking for some places to train jiu-jitsu I found this academy and I think it's an incredible place, suitable for everyone interested, with or without experience. The classes are awesome, great attention to detail and vast knowledge from the instructor who is an amazing guy. Recommend this place 100%.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Super T Karate

After visiting Empowered Martial Arts, I was Impressed with the quality of the programs, teaching staff and leadership of Hanshi John Geyston. If you want real world martial arts Empowered Martial Arts is the place to go.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Lloyd D Adams

I have been in Martial Arts most of my life, I’ve owned and operated a school since 1999 and I have rarely seen a instructor with the Drive, dedication and passion that Mr. Geyston has and instills into his students he is definitely empowering the students in the Tampa area highly recommend. Shihan Adams / Adams’ Karate Fitness

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Bruce Forrester

John is a great instructor and makes a great connection with his students. He is extremely personable and makes the class fun along with the instruction.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Patsy Theilen

Great place to have fun, make new friends and John Geyston is an amazing instructor. Your not just left to the side if you don't quite get the moves, he takes the time to make sure everyone advances and be able to utilize the moves you have been taught.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Ron Sell

Great school!

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Empowered Martial Arts & Gracie Humaita Jiu Jitsu Tampa

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