Reviews
Read what our parents and students think about us
Below you will find reviews and testimonials from current and former Krav Maga Martial Arts students and their parents in Lutz and Port Richey, FL.
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Patricia Rodriguez
My child loves the environment and the instructors are so patient.
Brian Alegado
Chris Rosa
Grateful for the community and techniques learned! So grateful do Sensei Allie’s VIP treatment and all of the KMMA staff!
Ruthe Flores - KMMA Leadership Student and KMMA 2nd Degree Blackbelt Leader, mother of Geno and Jordan, KMMA 2nd Degree Blackbelt Leaders and Elena, future KMMA Blackbelt CMSgt, US Air Force (Ret)
We LOVE the Blackbelt Leadership program and it’s so awesome that we get to train together as a family! If you’re thinking about becoming a Blackbelt, step up to Leadership program…You’ll be glad you did!
Dr. Michael Reisman - KMMA Leadership Student and 1st Degree Blackbelt, Certified
This is a very supportive atmosphere where the instructors and senior students all band together to help you on your journey to black belt excellence. I love the Blackbelt Leadership Program and the lessons Grandmaster and the team give all for success in school, work and life!
Bill Cronin - President / CEO, Pasco EDC
I chose to train at Krav Maga Martial Arts (KMMA) in Land O’Lakes because when Grand Master Steve Del Castillo teaches, he’s not just delivering a product or service... he is reinforcing a lifestyle and providing leadership training that will be with me for the rest of my life.”
Jessica Beltrame
Great team work. Very organized group. I requested 1 free class. They offered more, but it did not work for my schedule. When I got at the place, everyone knew about me and tried to make me feel welcome. They were flexible with my schedule during the period of free classes. Hopefully I will be back.
Lymari Kust - (Jayden’s Mom)
This program teaches so much more than any other team sports can offer. The motivation, life skills, and personal growth achieved impacts your life forever! Love this place!
Richard Woodward
From the moment that I stepped into the dojo in June I have had nothing but a positive experience from interactions with fellow students, the instructors, to Shihan himself. This is a close knit family atmosphere and it makes the training evolutions easy to learn, apply, and grow on. Just got my Orange Belt, and one day I hope to get my Black Belt and join the elite of this school in due time!!! Outstanding School!!!
Belle Thomas
My family has 3 generations studying KMMA with Shihan Stephen Del Castillo. We think this is a grand opportunity for all age groups to study with the fine staff assembled here.
Nicholas Cuneo
My young son and I could not be happier with our experience so far. He loves it, which means I love it. The programs are well thought out, The staff is helpful and eager to teach. A great environment to for anyone to learn a valuable skill while having fun. I Highly recommend for any age, gender or level of fitness. You guys Rock!
Jannie Gunnlaugsson
I love everything about this place! I went for a free women's self-defense class and then was offered a two week trial of their Krav Maga classes and I loved them! This style of martial arts is so much better than the karate I took as a kid! There are no katas or routines to learn; it's all about self-defense. You hit your attacker with everything you've got and get home safely. You can do these techniques whether you're a 300 pound man or a 100 pound grandmother. I was concerned, at first, that I wouldn't be able to do this sort of thing because of my back and neck problems, but I was encouraged to work at my own pace and everyone has been very accommodating. I've been going for just over two months now and I can already stand a lot longer than I could before and I'm getting stronger with every class! I've found that many of the other adults have similar limitations or old injuries and we've all been able to do these classes. If you're not sure if you can do it, do a two week free trial and find out! You might be surprised. I also love the welcoming, family atmosphere here! The instructors all learned my name right away and have welcomed me to every class. They use a lot of positive reinforcement and high fives, so I always feel good there. Finally, I love what I'm learning there! I can already defend myself from chokes, headlocks and some knife attacks and I also know how to hit back hard and fast! As a single woman, I love knowing that I can defend myself if attacked! That alone is invaluable! I feel stronger and more self-confident and that feeling has carried over into my everyday life. I wholeheartedly recommend that everyone take these classes!
Jeremy Haddix
My son and I have been a part of the KMMA family for just over a year now and we love it. Not only do we learn the best self defense techniques on the planet, but we also learn life lessons and wisdom from Mr. Del Castillo and his highly trained staff. Everyday we learn something new, get a good workout and have fun. We will be members for life.
MARGARET PRESSNER
My family had recently suffered a very sudden loss that left us heartbroken. My youngest then stopped expressing herself and started going inward… she is in the greatest most supportive school and has a therapist and still… so quiet So we arrived at this amazing welcoming place where I heard her use her voice for the first time in months, where she smiles while learning to defend herself . All the staff knew our story, they all made sure to embrace her and for that I will be eternally grateful. This is a place to find what you are looking for; maybe its self defense, confidence, discipline or simply to find the quiet voice inside you and let it out in a big Warrior scream
Nicole Gero
A wonderful experience. Made my daughter feel welcome and gain confidence. She is excited to come and learn new skills. Excited to be part of the family.
Matt Kay - KMMA BlackBelt Leadership Student and Probationary Blackbelt, husband of KMMA Probationary Blackbelt Laura and father of KMMA Probationary Blackbelt, Sammy
Not only are we having fun learning self defense but we are getting in great shape doing so. Instructors are always friendly and willing to go the extra mile. Classes are all ages so the whole family can travel the path to black belt together. You even get a free two week trial so you've got nothing to lose in coming to check it out.
Christie Rosa
Dani Tredway - KMMA Leadership Student and KMMA Blackbelt Candidate, mother of Kelly, future KMMA Blackbelt
I am a firm believer that God will use anything to make us the person he wants us to be. Late in my twenties, I was diagnosed with ADHD. I had learned to compensate for ADHD, but I knew there had to be more to improving my life and being the person God called me to be. One day I set a goal to improve my focus, lower the stress level, and increase my confidence. As my daughter and I did KMMA together, through the Blackbelt Leadership program, my focus began to improve, my stress level lowered, and my confidence began to shine. I am also a firm believer that God will also throw in a bonus just to show you how good he is. Recently, my husband commented that he noticed how calm and courageous I had become. He noticed I was no longer codependent with certain areas of my life. I didn't even know it at the time because I was so focused on my goal. Today I can say I have lowered my stress, improved my focus, improved my physical health, made new friends, become a better parent, strengthened my confidence, and have become a fearless, courageous leader. Though I have a goal of becoming a Sensi and later a Shihan, I have a long way to go. I never want to stop learning. I want my daughter to see how strong of a leader her mother is and serve as a role model for her. The Blackbelt Leadership program is just one way you can become the leader you need to be.
Luke Riverton
Besides your child learning self defense in case they should ever need it, KMMA teaches true value lessons in life on how to be an upstanding adult in the future. This place is amazing!!!!
Jazmine Diamantopoulos - KMMA Leadership Student and future blackbelt, mother of Joseph, KMMA 1st Degree Blackbelt, Certified and Julie, future KMMA Blackbelt and wife of Mario, future KMMA Blackbelt
Parents want the best for their kids! Not all schools are the same. KMMA is EXTRAORDINARY! It is many steps beyond the rest. We were blessed with two kids that are FULL OF ENERGY. KMMA is the perfect fit for them. They are kept moving all the time, and they never sit out waiting for their turn. They get their aerobic activity while learning real life defense skills. My kids are learning real techniques to protect themselves. Most importantly, they are learning how to be good human beings during the class. Academic schools do not have the time to really create a good human being with wholesome values. They can say they do it, but they really do not have time for this with all the state requirements and bureaucracy that must be met. A good human being takes time to nurture and develop. KMMA is truly committed to this task. The way a business will succeed and flourish is by its leaders. It is a pyramid effect. The philosophy at the top ripples to the bottom. Great leadership is definitely seen from the Grand Master, to the instructors, all the way down to the students. Kids absorb everything they are surrounded by. The instructors at KMMA are exceptional role models for my kids to learn from. They are kind, understanding, and great leaders. Before my kids are promoted to the next level, they must document their self discipline, healthy lifestyle, and the leadership roles they are performing in addition to their regular skills training. The classes are always fun. My kids love KMMA! Before you go anywhere else, try KMMA! You will not regret it, and your kids will be truly happy! Don't miss out on your blessing!
Dana Ceparano
I just signed my 9 year old daughter up and am looking forward to seeing her growth! We love that the staff is also so involved with her school.
Rebecca Randall
I’m so happy we started coming here! We get to exercise, build discipline and self confidence together as a family. Everyone on staff has been so kind and encouraging. I appreciate sempi Tia and how she was able to get my daughter engaged and motivated with her lessons. Shihan Winston is a fantastic and skillful teacher. I appreciate his patience with beginners. We’re so grateful to the team for welcoming us like family.
Sunen Linares
I have never felt better about my health and my capacity to keep myself and my family safe than since I joined the KMMA family. My son an I have worked with all the instructors and I can honestly say that they have all taught us something different about ourselves and our capabilities. I could not ask for a better group of people to influence our lives and encourage us to always reach higher than we think possible. Thank you
Matthew Reinecke
This is an absolutely great place to train. The staff is very knowledgeable and very helpful and it’s just an all-around fantastic atmosphere. I cannot say enough good things about KMMA. It’s run by great people who really love the martial arts and love to teach people. You absolutely cannot go wrong training at KMMA.
Artemis Rivera
My mother and I train at this amazing family-friendly dojo focused on practical real world self-defense. We're not very tall and we're not very strong but every day we learn new techniques to help us get home safely--no matter the situation. We love training here and look forward to earning our black belts in the next few years!
Renee Belmont
My granddaughter loves it here. She was engaged right away and the teachers are so patient and kind!
Kinzie Morey
Your family is awesome. The way you teach and how patient you are with students is amazing.
Erik St. Martin - KMMA Leadership Student and Blackbelt Candidate, father or Wyatt and Allie, KMMA Leadership Students and future KMMA Blackbelts Principal Software Engineering Manager, Microsoft
I started training at KMMA with two of my children a couple of years ago. I wanted to get them into more active hobbies, learn self-discipline, and work toward something that takes a long time to achieve. I believe it’s valuable to learn early, the feeling that comes from achieving something you’ve worked hard for. Additionally, I decided to train with them, to share something with them I loved to do when I was younger and to get myself back into shape after a bad injury and years of being sedentary. In a short period of time, I’ve seen so much growth in them, their confidence in particular. They absolutely love all the sensei at KMMA who make every class fun and engaging, and friendships they’ve made from working with their training partners. I have also seen a lot of growth in myself, my stamina and flexibility have improved considerably, but most of all the tremendous sense of pride I have watching my children grow every day and getting to share this journey with them. There is no doubt they will be incredible leaders and blackbelts due to the lessons instilled in them by all the amazing sensei, and the lessons of Grand Master. I’m so glad we decided to join the KMMA family.
Stephanie Burton
My daughter has been with KMMA for several weeks now, and we have seen a great improvement in her attitude, focus, and self-discipline. The instructors are fantastic and do a great job motivating the class. She loves the program and has made several good new friends. Highly recommend this program to literally everyone!
Patty Lee
I cannot recommend Krav Maga Martial Arts school enough! The facility is always clean and well-maintained. Grand Master Del Castillo and his instructors are incredibly knowledgeable and patient, taking the time to ensure everyone understands the techniques. They truly care about each student's progress. The atmosphere is very friendly and encouraging... making it a safe space to learn. In just a few classes, I’ve noticed that the other students are very happy there. If you are looking to learn how to defend yourself or a fun way to get in shape.. this is the best place to go!
Julie Jackson
My son just had a birthday party and had an absolute blast! They exceeded my expectations. They had games and and obstacle course which the kids loved! They also provided pizza. It was so easy on me. Everything was well planned and ruined perfectly. Thank you for making my son's day!
Blanca Cabrera - Future KMMA Blackbelt
I love it, it's a great community.
PAUL MERCER - FOUNDER/CEO, MERCER REALTY GROUP
I’VE BEEN ATTENDING CLASS AT KMMA FOR SEVERAL YEARS AND I CAN TELL YOU THAT IT IS A GREAT PLACE TO TRAIN. THE STAFF ARE FRIENDLY AND PROFESSIONAL. IT IS GREAT FOR ALL AGES, MALE OR FEMALE, THERE IS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE AT EVERY LEVEL. IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING GETTING STARTED OR A SEASONED MARTIAL ARTIST GO A VISIT. YOU WILL NOT BE DISSAPOINTED.
Ashley Ruggiero -- mother of KMMA Future Blackbelt Hayden and Owner, Lulita’s Sweets
My family and I joined KMMA almost two years ago. It has been such an amazing experience! I love that my husband, daughter and I get to train together as a family alongside other families as well. KMMA has become like a second family. Everyone from the staff to the students are amazing to work with. I never thought that at my age I would be training to earn a black belt but everyone in the dojo is so encouraging and supportive. We have gained so much knowledge, discipline and confidence since joining. Lessons we learn in the dojo have helped all of us with our jobs, schooling and life outside the dojo. Glad we took this leap!
Christopher Pesapane
My daughter really enjoyed her first couple of classes. Good group of people and I think it is a good fit for her.
Pedro Aquino
Kevin Gouveia
The instructors were all amazing! They made it fun, interactive and overall the students learned something new and tried their best. That’s why I love the school.
Greg Moody
They're the best Krav Maga and Martial Arts school of any kind, anywhere, in Tampa, Clearwater, Lutz or Land 'o Lakes! The instructors are both knowledgable and caring and our family loves the classes!
LumiNidum Health
We love KMMA, it's super fun, it has helped my child with her confidence. You should go and visit, come in and try a free class
Nichole Derouin
From a parent, my child attends KMMA. She has been showing a complete turn around in home and school settings with leadership, confidence and determination! Absolutely love the skills she has acquired to become the BEST version of herself!
Imran Gulmohamed
This place is amazing!!! Truly one of a kind!!! From the moment you step into the dojo everyone is friendly, positive and make you feel like you're family. The self-defense and personal development they teach they has a real life application that the instructors have gained through experience and wisdom. I have gained so much from my time here and I'm proud to say that I am a member for life!!! I would definitely recommend it to any of my family and friends!!!
Jonathan Caplinger
KMMA is second to none. Grand Master Steve has curated an exceptional program to create confident and competent black belt leaders, and he is backed up by an amazing staff. You feel welcomed from the moment you enter the doors, and the instruction that follows is encouraging, detailed and inclusive. If you’ve been looking for a place to train, look no further.
John Warwick - KMMA 1st Degree Certified Blackbelt and father of Probationary Blackbelt Maddon
The KMMA team is extremely welcoming and very eager to help elevate students of all ages and experience levels. In my opinion, some dojos can be a little overwhelming or intimidating, but not KMMA. The staff does a great job of immediately making you feel included as a part of the family. Through personal experience, I highly recommend the KMMA Leadership program as it continues to help me excel in my career with each Leadership seminar. I take away key factors in being a better, more balanced employee, father, husband, role-model and person all together. If you are interested in martial arts, would like to improve yourself physically and mentally, help your child do better in school and at home and have fun while learning the art of self-defense, look no further than KMMA!
Vickielynn Pringle
KMMA he’s not only a martial arts school but also a leadership school. Both my sons and myself are working on developing our confidence and our leadership abilities through this school. My eight-year-old does chores now because he looks forward to getting those stripes and a chance at getting metals and trophies. Both of my boys have been told that how polite they are because of the language respect that we learn at the school. I know of many martial arts schools, but this one actually listens to you and works with you if you have prior injuries and they really build you up.
J D
1+ years in. Still 5 stars!
Alexandra Garcia-Bicknell
We’ve been part of the KMMA Tribe for a year now and we couldn’t be happier. ALL the instructors are absolutely amazing. They are so patient, positive and encouraging. My child and I truly feel like we are part of a close community. We love KMMA
Jay Jay Coley
The instructors are Amazing. Classes are Great, the attention give to the students young & old. The overall atmosphere is Great! Attention to the techniques and small details them is Aces!
Melissa Bretz - Leadership Student, Mental Health Professional and future KMMA Blackbelt and parent of Abigail, KMMA Leadership Student and Future KMMA Blackbelt
The instructors and staff have been amazing! You can tell GrandMasters' passion and truly genuine nature. When you have owners/instructors that engage with their students it makes a world of difference. All the Sensei are absolutely amazing with my daughter! Their patience and encouragement helped her achieve her next goal. The atmosphere is family and the students are respectful, well rounded, and encouraging. I highly recommend and am looking forward to seeing my daughter achieve her goals with the leadership, encouragement, patience, respect, and genuine care that this environment provides.
Erik Rodriguez
Truly a great place to train. A family friendly environment, clean, well run and not your average “dojo”. The staff is knowledgeable, courteous, empathetic and always there to help. Our family has benefited immensely from our training both in martial arts and everyday life. KMMA has changed our life for the better in every way. We will forever be grateful to GM Stephen Del Castillo for all he has done for our family. If you have kids and are looking into martial arts, look no further. KMMA specializes in creating leaders and empowering lives through martial arts. They take the time to actually develop leadership techniques that will last a lifetime. HIGHLY RECOMMEND KMMA and the Blackbelt Leadership Program!
Shakirah Devoux
Amazing school great instructors