Alina Cummins

Instructors are amazing, passionate and knowledgeable. Best place to train. Recommend 100%.

Posted 1 year ago

I tried two other Kenpo dojos in town before I found Aaction, and this dojo is hands down the best in town. Phil Retana and the other instructor Kirk, make the techniques practical and fun to learn. Aaction has a direct lineage to Ed Parker through Grandmaster Jim Mitchell, who was trained by Mr Parker himself for 10 years. This dojo is NOT a belt factory and Mr Retana makes sure you’re ready for the next level, and that you’re truly earning it. If you’re looking for a solid dojo, I would recommend Aaction.

Posted 2 years ago

Mike Oddo

Phil Retana and all the instructors at Aaction Kenpo are the real deal! Great for kids and adults!

Posted 3 years ago

Bill Williams

Great place to train. Mr. Retana has an awesome teaching etiquette and methodology. The style of Kenpo itself is very "real world" applicable. I've known Mr. Retana for years and I feel very privileged and honored to have him train me. I highly recommend Aaction Martial Arts! It's not just some ol karate class ya go to in your spare time. All of the assistant instructors are more than qualified to teach as well. I have not had a bad experience with any of them. I feel very welcome. It has a true "family" feel to it. I carry it with me in my personal and work life as well. I honestly can't say enough about it!

Posted 3 years ago

Jared Lee

It's always a great time learning from Mr. Retana, an awesome experience for the whole family!

Posted 3 years ago

Corey Schroeder

To say that this Kenpo studio is excellent would be an understatement. I have attended for more than twelve years. Phil Retana's dedication to the art is matched by his skill, compassion, and humor. Not only do the in person workouts rock, Phil accommodates our private lessons virtually. I love that I can continue to sharpen my skills here in Kansas City. Whether you are looking to build confidence or practical self defense, I can assure you, that you will find it here at Aaction Martial Arts.

Posted 4 years ago

Kayla Schroeder

I started learning kenpo after I met my husband. Phil has been an amazing teacher. He explains the reasoning behind techniques and helps you see connections in what you are learning. He is a patient instructor and clearly very skilled. I would not want to go anywhere else! So, even if you are just like me and starting this new venture in your 30s, I highly recommend Aaction Martial Arts.

Posted 4 years ago

Richard Le

I’ve been going for a while and I think it’s really cool. Everyone here is nice and the material they teach is practical.

Posted 4 years ago

danny phillips

I’ve learned so much in the last year and a half! Great training in a clean and healthy environment! I think It’s 🎵 “THE BEST….AROUND”!“AND NOTHIN’ IS EVER GONNA KEEP IT DOWN!” 🎶 🎶😎👊

Posted 4 years ago

Dr. D

Aaction Martial Arts is truly a professionally operated studio which I highly recommend. Additionally, Mr. Retana is an accomplished martial artist who has a passion for teaching Kenpo Karate. I have personally experienced, through my training at Aaction, the benefits that this style of self-defense can have in one's life. 5 Stars!

Posted 4 years ago

Tina Adams

Mr. Retana is a wonderful teacher. Sean really enjoys coming to all his classes.

Posted 4 years ago

debra buckner

My Grandson go here Mr. Retana is a excellent instructor and Seth is learning alot it is a very good experience!

Posted 4 years ago

Richard W

Great environment. Very professional and understanding instructors.

Posted 5 years ago

willie burkett

It's the MOST POSITIVE place EVER!!!!

Posted 5 years ago

Stefanie Ostendorf

We Love this place! Best Kenpo school in the Springfield area; and Mr. Retana, is by far the best instructor, for several reasons. We have gone to another Kenpo school previously, but until you go here and see his method of teaching and how much skill and knowledge he has, you have no idea what you or your child is missing out on; especially if your new to the world of martial arts. Mr. Retana’s method of teaching is brilliant! My child had lost all interest and self esteem while at the previous place; I knew he loved the MA and I didn’t want him to just give up on it and carry these negative experiences with him, so I had by this time more knowledge at this point and knew what to look for and what things to avoid in looking for a school, experience, and what to expect to get from it, and we found Aaction Martial Arts! I cannot say enough good about it! Only, if you really want your child to have self esteem, learn this art, and have a positive experience from an instructor, your search is over! Here you will actually learn Kenpo, and earn your belt; not have a school that just gives belts out to keep parents happy. Anyone can go online and buy a black belt, but this is the place you will actually learn it, and earn it!!!

Posted 5 years ago

Heather Kaup

Best dojo for Kenpo Karate

Posted 5 years ago

rob

Very friendly and always a good time

Posted 7 years ago

Elizabeth Newton

Love the change it has made for my son. Would recommend to everyone!!!!!

Posted 8 years ago

Heather Wisdom

We love Aaction Kenpo Karate! Instructors are awesome and patient. They make sure your child is learning and has the knowledge of the movements.

Posted 8 years ago

Randy Mitchum

I took a few years off from my Kenpo training and couldn't believe how much my reflex and timing had slowed down. Now that I'm back training I feel much more confident in my ability to self defend myself. Aaction Kenpo Karate is the real deal and the system of self defense that is instructed is top notch. I highly recommend if you're looking for a way to exercise and improve your self defense skills give Aaction Kenpo Karate a shot, you'll be hooked!

Posted 9 years ago

K Woodring

I have taken private lessons with Mr. Retana by myself as well as along with my 14 year old daughter and have had a very positive experience both times. It has been amazing watching my daughters confidence grow over the last year! The Mitchell system of Kenpo Karate that is taught has real world application and is rooted in logic and reason. Mr Retana is an excellent instructor and has an immense knowledge of the discipline! Training here has been a challenging, enjoyable, and rewarding experience that we look forward to every week and I would recommend it to anyone interested!

Posted 9 years ago

Joel Carleton

I was extremely nervous at the thought of going into a sport I'd never even tried and knew nothing about, but Mr. Retana did nothing but relieve my stress and has helped me temper my skill in the fire of my will. Through the programs here, I have learned discipline in myself and the art of self defense and offense like never before. The instructors are unbelievably kind and never make me feel less than or unwise. Every student is there to help you along the way and the environment is great for all ages. I'd recommend learning this art to everyone, and to look no further than this studio to start your journey.

Posted 9 years ago

Jacob D

Combining martial arts tradition with the most modern and practical movement science results in the Kenpo Karate system at this studio. I've gotten the pleasure of spending the past 5 years learning Kenpo, more than half of which has been spent here, and I really am all the better for it. As an introvert and not being the largest guy, I have Aaction Kenpo Karate to thank for breaking me out of my shell more, and giving me the self confidence and assurance that I hadn't had before. The instruction is friendly and paced to my needs, and they've even helped turn a fear of failure into the awareness of learning opportunities. Thanks for these great years!

Posted 9 years ago

Mike Jones

Aaction Kenpo is the real deal ! If you're looking for real self defense that works this is the place for you. I've been practicing several different systems of martial arts for over 30 and when I found Aaction Kenpo I found a home and haven't ever considered another system since. The instruction is top notch and professional, the classes are structured and disciplined but still yet relaxed. The instructors know their material well and can answer any question you ask them. They have been in business for nearly 30 years in the Springfield area so that alone says something for them, the training is safe and fun. I highly recommend anyone considering martial arts to stop by and check them out you will not be disappointed !

Posted 9 years ago

Nicole May

I've had only great experiences here so far! Mr. Retana is not only a master of the art, but he is also a great instructor. You learn so much useful material in Kenpo, and it can be fun along the way! I definitely recommend this place to anyone considering learning a martial art.

Posted 10 years ago

A Gee

From my experience, Kenpo seems like a good fit if you are interested in learning practical self-defense techniques. Mr. Retana is a great instructor: very patient, attentive to detail, and is able to take complex forms and break them down step-by-step so it feels manageable. Good mix of discipline and fun!

Posted 10 years ago

Mark Wells

This review is from a parent's perspective: My son (9 y/o) has been attending Aaction Kenpo Karate almost 1 year. He started training for various reasons; self-defense (bully-defense), interest in martial arts, and sports/activity. In his time training, he has received and improved in all those aspects and more. He has also learned to be even more respectful, more aware, more self-controlled, more disciplined and more focused. I applaud Master Phil. His teaching style is excellent. He is a seasoned instructor that has not only has mastered this martial art form, but understands people. He is fantastic with kids (and parents) and will work with them at their level and pace. I am also pleased that this is not a "diploma mill" or "belt factory". You definitely earn your belts here and are only rewarded once you master the skill set required for that belt. Thank you Aaction Kenpo Karate and Master Phil Retana!

Posted 10 years ago

Bryan Cummins

The patience and skill level of Mr. Retana are second to none. He has been practicing and teaching kenpo for 25 years and his attention to detal will amaze you. If you're looking for a martial arts school in Springfield amoungst so many to choose from. I would highly recommend this studio.

Posted 10 years ago

hattercom

There are a myriad of reasons why I hold Aaction Kenpo Karate with such high regard. The primary that I would happily tell any one is the level of education that you get within the dojo. Will you learn the art of self-defense? Absolutely! Will you learn about yourself, gain self-discipline, be challenged to push yourself to your absolute limit? That's an understatement. The instructor(s) at Aaction are not only knowledgeable, but live the practice that they teach. It's not a 'belt factory'. You gain exactly what you earn. You are challenged to be your best, not give up, and persevere through the challenges of learning the art. There are no easy corners, no shortcuts, no exception. If I could offer any thoughts to someone looking for an authentic, genuine, and well rounded education in the world of martial arts, I would suggest stopping at Aaction and see for yourself. I believe what you'll find is what I found: a challenge both physically and mentally, a push to become a better person, and a sense of learning that could only be achieved through 'the sweat of my accomplishments.'

Posted 11 years ago

Murray VandenBrink

Seriously the best school i have ever trained at ..the head instructor Mr Retana is nothing short of professional and this isnt just a contract school i could tell very quickly ...he actually cares about each student and his or her advancements ...i would recommend Aaction Kenpo to anyone ...top notch school

Posted 11 years ago

Carrie L

When I first started as a student here, I was pretty nervous and not sure it would be my thing. It's definitely not something that comes to me naturally which was all the more reason to do it. Two years into it, my confidence in my self-defense skills has grown. I really enjoy it and would recommend to others who may be intimidated by it to give it a shot.

Posted 11 years ago

Robert Martin

As a insulin dependent diabetic it is important to me too keep myself physically and mentally fit. Kenpo is a key element to achieving this goal. The instructor(s) are calm and patient with each individuals needs. Everything they teach is backed up with reason and purpose.

Posted 11 years ago

tyler krtek

Aaction Kenpo Karate is the most prestigious karate school in the country. It has direct lineage to the founder of the art, Ed Parker. The Mitchell system is all about practicality. Every technique, set, and form is designed to be used in a real life situation. I have studied other martial arts, but kenpo, especially the Mitchell system, is by far the most useful and thorough. The current Owner, Mr. Phil Retana, is the best in the business. Mr. Retana's careful attention to the tradition of Kenpo Karate and innovative adjustments to the art are second to none. I personally encourage anyone who is serious about taking up a martial art to make Aaction Kenpo Karate the place to learn.

Posted 11 years ago

Jerry Wickens

I discovered Aaction Kenpo Karate shortly after earning a Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do. It was truly and eyeopening experience. I have now been a student of Kenpo Karate for just over seven years and have loved every lesson whether it be with Grand Master Mr. Mitchell, the current operator of the Springfield school Mr. Ratana or instructor Mr. Kinney. The professionalism of the instructors and the efficient structure of the art itself makes Aaction Kenpo Karate a great place for anyone to learn martial arts. From the beginner to the already seasoned expert no matter the age, Aaction Kenpo Karate is a great school where one can get to quality private instruction while still have the flexibility to attend multiple group class a week. Sincerely, Jerry Wickens

Posted 11 years ago

Michael Witt

Aaction Kenpo has been my second home since March of 1996. The quality of instruction that is offerred, is by far the best that I have experienced. Mr. Retana through his years of teaching experience is one of the finest instructors I know. He was taught by Mr. Jim Mitchell and is a perfect representation of the Mitchell Kenpo Karate System. Through his dedication to the Martial Arts he has inpsired many people. If you are looking for a great atmosphere and quality Martial Arts Instruction, stop by or call to setup your first training session.

Posted 11 years ago

Typhlosion Master

Be prepared to learn TRUE martial arts. Pricing is fair, but the experience is worth a lot more than other martial art studios. I have visited the majority of martial arts studios in Springfield and this is by far the best. Not only will you learn powerful techniques, but you will also learn the reasoning behind them. Too often have I seen instructors tell their students to do techniques, "just because" they said to do it. That is not the case here. You will learn not just how to defend, but why you are defending that way. You will learn not just how to punch, but why you are punching that way. The atmosphere is very professional yet welcoming. If you want to develop a strong understanding of martial arts, visit Mr. Retana.

Posted 11 years ago

Michael Goldsmith

Absolutely the best option for real world self defense class! Great for people of all ages. I took the class for years, and my seven year old has been taking the class for the last two years, and he loves it as well. The training teaches you the proper way to defend yourself in a real world application. The training is also structured with group classes and one on one lessons to help you develop and reach your goals! We tried other martial art training programs before Aaction Kenpo Karate, and there is simply no comparison.

Posted 11 years ago

Rob Kinney

I split this review into three parts: my experience of the benefits of training here, the teaching, and the business side of the studio. I have definitely gotten a lot out of training at Aaction Kenpo under some great instructors. My balance, coordination, and situational awareness are orders of magnitude better than when I started. The weekly regimen of training helps me stay fit even when I"m not getting as much exercise as I would like elsewhere in my schedule. Of course, constantly earning so much about both the system and just movement in general is a good brain workout too, and learning to be an instructor developed my people skills and my confidence in public. The actual combat techniques are effective and have just plain worked, both in tournaments and real life (Although luckily I've never had to fight for my life against someone with evil intent. Knock on wood.). The system is designed to keep you playing steps ahead of your opponent - chess vs. checkers. Even just the biomechanics and stance work that I learned there have spared me from non-combat injury more than once. The teaching style is positive, and the instructors are always willing to address questions about techniques, the mechanics behind them, and the reasons for doing them a certain way. If you see a problem, you'll never hear "because that's the right way". They'll analyze it with you and talk about what works, how it works, and counter strategies. If a technique really has a problem, the senior black belts will get together and fix it. I've seen it done, and it's why Aaction Kenpo is such a relevant system. What you practice *will* work in today's world. That said, you get what you put into it in terms of both rate of progression and performance. Some people tread the long slow road, and some people put more dedicated practice time in and so achieve mastery faster. On the business front, Aaction Kenpo has always been great to work with, and I've always gotten what I agreed to in terms of lessons, pricing, and schedule. Overall, it's a safe, friendly place to learn some mean and dangerous skills. Whenever you decide to check it out, I'll probably still be there.

Posted 11 years ago

Jesse Rafferty

I had the distinct honor to train under Professor Retana from 2008-2010, during which time I advanced to the rank of Brown Belt. One of the first things I was taught, was the physics based nature of Kenpo. I didn’t fully grasp the power of this until I discontinued my training and moved away from Springfield to study engineering. As an engineering student I learned about centrifugal acceleration, force vectors, and vector angle analysis. Every one of these physics principles are found in Kenpo. Especially in Mitchell System Kenpo. Professor Retana is a unique man, humble and exacting. His attention to detail and concern for the training of his students is unparalleled. Kenpo is not a past time for him. It is his life. He lives to teach people this art; and it comes through in every conversation, every private lesson, and in every class. There are many choices for the prospective martial arts student in Springfield. There are even some schools that profess to teach “Kenpo.” If you are looking for easy and quick advancement, for an “exercise” class, then perhaps Mitchell System Kenpo is not for you. True Kenpo is the art of meeting an attack with sheer brutality and violence of action. In this school you will be taught to defend yourself and those you love, and along this journey you will gain a level of self-respect and confidence few people have known. If that appeals to you, then I highly recommend a conversation with Professor Retana.

Posted 11 years ago

Scott Montgomery

i would have to honestly say the Mitchell system that's being taught at Aacttion kenpo karate in Springfield Missouri by the instructor Phil Retana i was a skype student and also had the privileged to train one on one with him his knowledge and experience is awesome without Doubt top notch i would recommend this kenpo system to anyone that has the desire to learn

Posted 11 years ago

Steve Bowlin

I am also someone who extensively investigated various martial arts studios in Springfield. However, I knew the first time I met Mr. Retana that he was the teacher that I wanted in order to learn the "unique and powerful art" of Kenpo Karate. I have not been disappointed. I have been a student at Aaction Kenpo Karate for just over a year. I look forward to going to each and every class and the learning opportunites provided. Between classes, I am able to continue my education because of the excellent DVD tapes available to be used at home. These have been invaluable to my progress. A word to the wise. Do not expect this to be one of those studios that takes your money and "gives" you a belt. Mr. Retana is exacting and meticulous. If you are not committed to the art and prepared to advance then you won't advance. Personally, this makes every advancement in degree and belt more satisfying and rewarding.

Posted 12 years ago

Mary Wright

I have been teaching Mitchell Systems Kenpo for many years; however, it has been very challenging to work on my own material. Prof. Retana's Skype sessions have been a fantastic way to refresh my own material and also keep up to date with the evolution of Mitchell Systems Kenpo. The face to face interaction allows for easy question and answers providing the best training short of physically being in class. Because of my demanding schedule and geographical distance, the convenience of scheduling Skype lessons has allowed me to consistently work on my Kenpo more effectively and reconnect with other Mitchell Systems practitioners. Thank you, Prof. Retana for providing this excellent training tool.

Posted 12 years ago

Armando Barbarek

My name is Armando and I've been involved with Mitchell System Kenpo Karate for several years. It's proven to be one of the few true Arts. The reason it's survived for as long as it has is because it is rooted as 1st Generation and has remained unchanged from its creator, Mr. Ed Parker. I would recommend classes and training to anyone with even the slightest interest in the Martial Arts. Master Phillip Retana is a kind and patient instructor with over 20 years experience. The classes are creative, cardio-healthy, involved, fresh, and fun! Going to class is one of the best decisions I've ever made. It fills me with confidence and self esteem. More than that, you can gain knowledge of physics, anatomy, and history. What more could you ask for?! Come join the class - you'll never look back. : )

Posted 12 years ago

Anon

I've learned a lot about life and business on the way to achieving my black belt under Mr. Mitchell.

Posted 12 years ago

Bruce Lynn

After thoughtful consideration and researching all of the martial arts studios in Springfield, Aaction is in my estimation Springfield's premier martial arts studio. This studio was started by Grand Master Jim Mitchell who studied with Grand Master Parker, the founder of American Kenpo Karate, in his home every week for over ten years. Kenpo Karate combines the best of karate, kungfu, jiu-jitsu, and aikido, but is not static. One of the principles of Kenpo Karate is constant 'growth'. The constant analyzation of the fighting techniques by Grand Master Mitchell and Senior Professor Retana means that if something can be improved it will be. This art is not bound by blind acceptance of historical methods. When a truly better method is discovered it is incorporated into the current curriculum. The current owner of the studio is Senior Professor and 7th degree black belt, Phil Retana. Mr. Retana is an excellent, patient instructor with over 20 years of experience in Kenpo. I would recommend Aaction and Mr. Retana to anyone who wants to learn Kenpo for the right reasons.

Posted 12 years ago

Dominic Moon

I have been studying Kenpo for more than 13 years, and have also attained black belts in two other systems, while studying in Okinawa, Japan and Korea... Kenpo is definitely, without a doubt, the most comprehensive and effective system out there!!! I have recently started taking advantage of the online Skype lessons now offered by Aaction Kenpo Karate Studios, and have been amazed at the quality of instruction I have received via this method. I am active duty military and as a result have been geographically removed from being able to attend classes in person for the past 10 years. When this program became available I jumped at the chance to train again under a qualified instructor. The level of attention to detail Mr. Retana is able to pick up on and address in these lessons continues to amaze me. In a very short time we have already been able to completely review the system up to my point, and start progressing further. These online lessons are a God-send, and worth every penny! These lessons combined with the home study DVD’s now being made available can teach you everything you need to know and more while in the comfort of your own home and on your own schedule. Anyone interested in starting to learn Kenpo or continuing their studies in this dynamic and powerful art should grab up these lessons while they can! There are only so many hours in the day, and as good as these lessons are I can’t imagine that they will not be filling up soon!!! Good luck in your studies, and thank you so much Mr. Retana for making these lessons available!!!

Posted 13 years ago

Brian Piper

I had trained for years in a variety of martial arts and, within the first few classes at Aaction Kenpo Karate Studios, I knew this was the most practical, logical, thoughtful system of self-defense that I had encountered. I trained with Mr. Retana and Mr. Mitchell for 5 years and taught at the school the last 2 and kenpo has been a part of my life ever since. Since I moved out of state, I have tried several other schools and styles to continue rounding out my knowledge, but I have continued training in kenpo because I have yet to find anything else that compares. The amount of thought and detail that goes into each movement and technique is incredible and the staff is knowledgeable, friendly and incredible to learn from and work with. Can't say enough good things about this school and this style. Certainly changed my life. Keep up the good work!!

Posted 13 years ago

Velcrofav

I have been with this school for going on seven years now and believe it to be one of the biggest blessings I have ever received. Our training has provided me with better balance, coordination, strength and endurance, awareness of environment and overall a better mental aptitude. Our instructor Phil Retana really knows his stuff and how best to express this stuff so that anyone can understand. Our training is also really great for it's flexibility of body types. I am 110 lb, 5'4" female compared to mostly 5'8"+, 160 lb+ guys, and this karate system works just as well for me as it does those guys. I can't explain enough how much this training has helped me in my life, but I'm glad for the experience so that I may have the chance to try.

Posted 13 years ago

Michael Shade

Where to start? I have been training at Aaction Kenpo Karate Studios for several years. I started training back in 2006; it's been a wild ride with recovering from heart surgery. I come from a Muay Thai background and have studied various other arts. Let me tell you, Aaction Kenpo is the best, most practical I have encountered. "Expert Instruction" is an understatement. The knowledgeable staff will not only teach you the "how" of the Art, but also the "why" and the three points of logic behind it. Bottom line, if you are interested in learning Martial Arts and wish to learn a practical, proven system of self defense that WORKS, look no further than Aaction Kenpo!

Posted 13 years ago

Todd Forshee

After my first private lesson, I was hooked. One of the first techniques I learned is still one of my favorites today. Very practical, no-nonsense and effective. The ability to accommodate or modify based on different body types and ability also makes a world of difference. A friendly atmosphere makes training fun and enjoyable. As with any endeavor, the effort you put forth will determine your progress and success. Led by Mr. Phil Retana, an excellent instructor, he is able to easily explain and demonstrate at every step along the way. If you are looking to take the first step in your martial arts journey, definitely check it out. You will be glad you did.

Posted 13 years ago

Mark Retana

I started training at Aaction Kenpo Karate studios in Springfield back in 1991 with my brother Phil, who is now the school's owner. Besides being the best place to learn self-defense in the Springfield area, it was the start of an exciting adventure and where I made many lifelong friends over the years. My favorite thing about the art itself is that it's fit for students of any age and can be customized based on your physical attributes. And besides being the best place to learn from quality instructors, ask any of the students who've been there a while: it's just plain fun!

Posted 13 years ago

Donald Syring

I started studying at the school after me and a friend of mine had been attacked by three guys one night. I wanted to learn self defense. I have since learned way more than that. It takes a lot of self discipline to study the arts. You have to commit to it not just go half at it. I have taken away so much from all the instructors. Once they came out with the dvd's it helps me to remember what i was taught kind of a study guide if you will. I would tell anyone if they want to learn defense or just to stay in shape to give them a try you won't regret it.

Posted 13 years ago

Garry Avery

My son Ben and I have been with Aaction Kenpo Karate Studios for about 5 months now. By far one of the best decisions that I ever made for both of us. Not only do the offer group classes, but best part of the program are the private lessons. All instructors are personable, and extremely knowledgeable about the art. I also recently purchased one of the home training DVD's and it has been a fantastic tool for our training. You really need to look no further if you're looking for a place to help create a better you. Really the hardest part about it is walking in the door the very first time, but we were both put at ease and all of our questions answered the very first visit. I walked out fully confident that I had found the right place to study. The only thing I regret is not starting it sooner.

Posted 13 years ago

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