Black Belt America Karate | Martial Arts School | Madison

Our daughter joined Blackbelt America recently. She's 8 and she loves it! She's really excited to be part of the group. The lessons are positive and fun. The environment is full of dedicated and excited students. As a parent it's really rewarding to see her having a good time and learning to do something she's excited about in an supportive environment. Lots of high 5s, lots of encouragement, a great experience!

My daughter has enjoyed her classes. They are very good at keeping the students involved and professional.

I cannot say enough good things about the people at Black Belt America and the positive influence they’ve had on my son. They really care about each student and take the time to have the important conversations. They pay attention, have high standards, focus on safety, give positive attention, and have excellent follow-up. They’re excellent role models for the children. I really can’t recommend this program more highly.

Both my children became black belts and learned respect. They both enjoyed the classes and continue today.

It all started with my children taking classes. They were having so much fun while learning martial arts that I decided to join [age 40]. I never expected that 28 years later, I would earn my 5th degree Black Belt, study martial arts with an amazing group of people, work here as my "retirement" job, and help adults and children discover the same life values and skills that our family learned. Although my path had ups-and-downs [whose doesn't?] I've found a home with a strong foundation and I love being here.

Hey! Please let me prepare you, Dear Reader, because I'm about to gush. 😉Black Belt America just hosted (on Saturday, 9/24) their 2022 WI Invitational Tournament, at Kromrey Middle School, in Middleton, WI. I attended as well as competed, and I simply must share my experience. (FYI: I am a new yellow belt in the adult classes at BBA.)IAH: I did *not* want to compete in this tournament because I am very uncomfortable in front of strangers/spectators. However, this rotation's focus is CONFIDENCE, so I *made* myself register to compete in this tournament. Talk about nerve-wracking!OK. So, in an word, it was AWESOME!! I went early enough to watch the black belt divisions, and WOW. I was both awed and humbled by every competitor's focus, determination, and confidence -- even when (*especially* when) something went wrong. Each person was a joy to watch, and moving forward I plan on making every effort to attend as many black belt events as possible. It was simply wonderful to behold as well as extremely informative to someone like me who is still learning the basics. WELL DONE, one and all!Then came the under black belt divisions. I had no idea what to expect (on top of feeling nervous already), but everything was so well organized that it all went off without a hitch. While I was glad to have practiced the week prior, everyone -- *every one* -- was so pumped up and encouraging that, once I was inside that ring, it felt great to just put forth my best effort. It was exhilarating, and I am so grateful for Mr. Timmerman's teaching and support. I had a fantastic time......which brings me to a final point. Of course, all of BBA's higher ups were there and very busy, yet ALL of them -- Mr. & Mrs. Wideman, Ms. Wideman, Ms. Funck, Mr. Timmerman, even Ms. Happel, the tournament Grand Champion! -- asked me, at one point or another, this question: "Did you have fun?" I love this; it made their priorities so clear. Thank you, BBA.And, yes: I had a ton of fun. Can't wait for the next tournament!

My son attended summer camp at BBA and by the end he wanted to switch from the other karate studio he had been attending. His confidence and discipline are markedly improved since before starting.

This was a awesome event!It was so wonderful to see young people doing possible things with their lives and supporting each other while striving for personal excellence at the same time. Plus nurturing values like discipline, respect and self confidence. All these things are learned and practiced with teamwork and through leadership with participation in karate at Black Belt America.

BBA is an incredibly well-run organization. Activities are well-structured, the kids have an awesome time, and they learn great life skills. Plus, when you walk in the door everything is sparkling clean - proof that the staff stays on top of everything. Couldn't recommend this place more!

Our kids have been going to BBA after school for years. My oldest will be graduating elementary school with a black belt in karate and lifelong friends. I can’t say enough about how amazing this program has been for our kids but what’s truly incredible is how they teach kids to then motivate other kids and become role models in their program. My boys truly look up to the instructors (shout out to Mr Blackmore and Ms Happel) and now have younger kids looking up to them. What started out as a hurried attempt at finding after school care morphed into a wonderful community. We are so lucky to have come across this place that has nurtured our children to become better humans all while keeping them active and teaching them discipline!