Rifkin Professional Karate Center

I have been doing Karate under the training of Master Rifkin for 7 years now and I must say that it is his training that has improved my physical condition (strength and flexibility), and my mental condition (focus and patience). I love how he does not give belts as awards but rather makes you earn them as they are symbols of improvement. Another thing I like about him is how he makes us work on the technique of moves rather than making us do the flashiest moves possible. This shows how he cares most about us being able to defend ourselves if the time comes instead of being able to show off some cool move to friends, which is not what Karate is meant for. All in all, I think that RPKC is the best place to learn Karate to be able to protect yourself, and get stronger physically and mentally, for any age.

We can highly recommend Mr. Rifkin’s karate classes.We have been looking for karate classes here in Columbia, and there are not as many options available.First, we tried Hockman’s classes, and it was not a good experience. He was rude, and kids were afraid of him.So, we switched to Mr. Rifkin’s classes and could not be happier.First, the space: it is big, bright, and there is enough room for parents and all kids.Second, the routine: Mr. Rifkin has very thorough routine and well-developed plan for each classes.Third, the attitude and atmosphere: Mr. Rifkin develops a trust with kids and treats them very well and is very patient to explain. He knows each kid by the name and pays attention to the progress.He encourages kids, while still pushing them to excel. They are not afraid of him, and there is always room for humor and a little joke.Lastly, it is not only about karate but discipline, respect, and self-care, which is very important. All these values are explained and talked about on each classes.Kids learn a lot and develop both physically and mentally.I think it is a great place for kids to grow.

RPKC is an outstanding martial arts school. Master Rifkin has created a program with the highest quality I have ever seen or experienced. He is a master teacher who knows how to determine the perfect balance between pushing and encouraging a person just past where they think their limit is. While training at RPKC I gained a level of physicality I didn’t know I was capable of. I also obtained a sharpness of mind that aided me in the everyday aspects of my life, such as work and interacting with my wife and children. RPKC truly is a life changing experience for the better. No matter what your age, it’s never too early or too late to try. The community truly is one of people who genuinely care for one another. I have honestly considered moving back to Columbia just so I could continue training at RPKC. Since moving away I have not been able to find a school that even comes close in comparison.

My son had trouble excelling at sports, we tried everything, and then he started Karate at Rifkin's. What a difference it has made in his life! He is happier, more confident, has made many new friends!I recommend this place to everyone! Best place for martial arts hands down!!!

If I had to sum up RPKC in one word, it would be "integrity." Our son started Little Warriors last summer and we couldn't possibly be more pleased. Martial arts, of course, is a great way for kids to be active. But at RPKC, it goes so much further beyond learning self-defense. Kids are taught how to show respect to others, their instructor, the institution and themselves. Master Rifkin is an honest and fair business man as well as being invested in the advancement of his students. He calls each student by their name and looks them in the eye, which in my opinion, is such a great way to show and teach basic respect. We are very thankful for Master Rifkin and RPKC!!

Master Rifkin is an amazing teacher and always supports you as your talents grow. For someone who is just starting out and does not have the best mind body coordination he is always supportive and passionate about what he does. You don’t just get belts because you’ve been there for a certain amount of time, you earn it. Confidence is something I lack and the more I grow in my talents it grows that confidence not only in class but in life in general. Would highly recommend!!

Our son has been enrolled for a little more than a year and is thriving in Master Rifkin's program. He has grown in confidence, determination, hard work, focus, and attention to detail.Master Rifkin is an amazing mentor for these kids. Highly recommended!

RPKC is a great place for kids and adults to learn technique, confidence, self-discipline and self-defense. Rifkin is a master of the art with a great teaching style and tons of experience. It's been a joy seeing my son grow so much through the teachings of Master Rifkin. I would recommend his dojo to anyone. Hi-ya!

My son has been studying under Master Rifkin for a year now. I couldn't be happier with how his confidence has excelled in the last year. He is more out going and shows a level of self discipline that I would not expect from a 9 year old. He enjoys the physical challenge that Karate offers along with the new friendships that have come from it. Master Rifkin's teaching is more than self defense. He and his team also teach important life skills. I would recommend his school to anyone.

My son is getting great instruction at Rifkin Karate Center. Once the COVID crisis hit, I wasn’t sure what would happen. Master Rifkin quickly put all classes online for easy to access, while the studio formulated a plan for return. I am …