Not sure if karate is right for you or your kid? Try for free by using the form to schedule your first class online. Sandoval Freestyle Karate is a leading martial arts school located in Phoenix's East Valley. We have two locations, a Gilbert school and Chandler school, both of which offer martial arts derived from traditional karate, taekwondo, American kenpo, and Muay Thai.
We are also very proud to be an official Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy and offer jiu-jitsu lessons at our Gilbert location. Please select from the following classes to learn more or feel free to contact us directly. Have your little one join our Little Dragons class to learn better eye-hand coordination, listening skills, and most importantly, to have fun with friends!
We are also very proud to be an official Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy and offer jiu-jitsu lessons at our Gilbert location. Please select from the following classes to learn more or feel free to contact us directly. Have your little one join our Little Dragons class to learn better eye-hand coordination, listening skills, and most importantly, to have fun with friends!
Services
Sandoval Freestyle Karate is a family karate academy run by Mr. Allen Sandoval and Mrs. Kristi Sandoval We have two school locations to better serve you - our Gilbert karate school and Chandler karate school. Our promise to our students is that we will provide a warm, professional, and courteous atmosphere that will enable everyone the opportunity to grow both mentally and physically.
Our free class is for new students who have not previously attended either of Sandoval Freestyle Karate's locations. By scheduling your free class you will give you/your child an opportunity to meet and greet with the instructor(s) and program director, plus participate in a class! Please make sure that you register for the appropriate age group.
It is very beneficial to teach karate to children at a young age. It helps immensely with motor, listening, and mental skills. In addition, the earlier one learns martial arts, the stronger their foundation is as they progress through the different belt levels. At Sandoval Karate, we understand how to teach our Little Dragons in a manner that is fun and beneficial to the typical behavior of kids ages three to five.
Reviews (25)
John E.
Jan 02, 2022
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I went here multiple years and got my black belt through Sandoval. Now my 5 year old son goes here. All the instructors are very good with kids. They are good at teaching them discipline but still joke around and make sure to keep the class fun for the kids. I did a little martial arts when I was a kid and hated it. They do a much better job at keeping the classes fun for the kids.
Alma Henriques
Jan 02, 2022
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Our very spirited 4 year old has been going to SFK for 2 months now. The difference in his attitude and demeanor is staggering. The staff are extremely knowledgeable and truly love working with children, of all skills and attention spans. They instill the need for respect while anyways maintaining an environment for fun and learning. The classes are well designed for group lessons and they always create the space for one on one instruction.
Amanda Janine
Dec 12, 2021
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My daughter just started doing karate here and absolutely loves it! After the first day she asked to be signed up! It’s awesome they have a free first month to make sure the kiddos like before you commit. The teachers are great and really make sure all the kids are really learning the moves as well. Definitely a karate school to check out! Very clean facility as well.
*** few months into the classes watch out they want money for EVERYTHING! I paid 900 bucks for 6 months thinking all was covered I was WRONG! Good teachers but just want money it seems like every other place.
*** few months into the classes watch out they want money for EVERYTHING! I paid 900 bucks for 6 months thinking all was covered I was WRONG! Good teachers but just want money it seems like every other place.
Dustyn J.
Dec 07, 2021
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The only way that they notified us that they were moving is through email.. An email I never saw, they did not post it on the door like they did other notices, they have also called me and sent letters to notify me of other things but not this very important piece of information. I found out they were moving one day after my contract was to be renewed, I went in the next day to cancel and was told I was not allowed to.. I then pointed out that they broke their own contract by moving outside of the 6 mile radius agreed upon within said contract. They are now threatening to sue me if I don't
Ken Dunning
Nov 22, 2021
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Sandoval Karate is an excellent place for kids and adults. We have had a nothing but great experiences. The staff is friendly and and knowledgeable. My son took classes when he was in the 4-6 y/o class and the lessons and handling of the kids was excellent and they made it fun. We are now back and I am taking the adults class with my son and we love it. Great workout and excellent teaching. Allen Sandoval and his team make sure everyone is learning the proper technique and skills. Definitely recommend.
Derek Cone
Sep 29, 2021
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We have loved Sandoval karate! This is our second child enrolled now and our girls have both loved it! We love all of the teachers and how personable they each are. I love that they teach them manners and respect along with teaching them the proper way to protect yourself. They are serious and want you to learn but also include fun games within. There is great communication with Kaylie who is at the front desk , she is always there to help you. Can’t say enough good things about this place!
Linda Huizar
Sep 27, 2021
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Positive: Communication, Professionalism, Quality, Value
We have been with Sandoval Karate for over 3 years and it’s been nothing but great for our son. He has learned a lot, is about to get some physical activity in his day and truly enjoys class. The instructors really know their stuff. Highly recommend Sandoval karate!
We have been with Sandoval Karate for over 3 years and it’s been nothing but great for our son. He has learned a lot, is about to get some physical activity in his day and truly enjoys class. The instructors really know their stuff. Highly recommend Sandoval karate!
Cierra Hennessy
Sep 21, 2021
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I love going to Sandoval Karate. I attend the adult class and I always feel welcomed. All of the instructors are amazing and attentive. The dojo is one of my favorite places to go to get some relief from a stressful work day, while getting in a good workout, and learning defense fundamentals. I always highly recommend this place to everyone interested in learning martial arts.
Kati
Sep 12, 2021
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Chris Bowyer
Apr 17, 2021
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Our boys have been going here for just a couple months now after taking advantage of their free one month free trial classes. They have shown immediate improvement in focus and discipline; and they look forward to their weekly classes. The instructors are friendly, yet keep them driven and hold them accountable. (Even the young ones)
We are happy we found such a great school so close to home. We love that there is also a viewing area for all parents/family members to sit and watch the classes. Kaylee has also been super helpful and knowledgeable when assisting my wife with make up classes when
We are happy we found such a great school so close to home. We love that there is also a viewing area for all parents/family members to sit and watch the classes. Kaylee has also been super helpful and knowledgeable when assisting my wife with make up classes when
Wendell J.
Aug 16, 2019
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Not a very good school unfortunately . My wife and I started this school and were told the first month is free however that's just a ploy to get you to sign a six month contract that you cannot get out of. The first preliminary class was awesome and the instructors were very hands on but after we signed up we never saw that instructor again and honestly all the instructors are a bit impatient to be dealing with children under five years of age. I'm not going to say anything else, I just wouldn't recommend this karate studio to anyone I know. They say one thing and do another. Too
Stacye H.
Aug 01, 2019
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Jeremy S.
Jun 01, 2019
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They make it easy & inviting to start and during our first two months of classes, all three adult 'coaches' gave our quite young (3.5 year-old) son the attention he needed to acquire new skills. You can really tell they care about the kids and have the right balance between that and providing a disciplined and focused learning environment. They demand respect from the kids and give back encouragement and positivity.
Cathy C.
May 09, 2019
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Took my 4 yo here for a class, after trying Brazilian ju jitsu. This class was great! The instructors were easy to understand, the directions were precise and they made it fun with different games, which is important for this age level. I also liked that each kid got one on one time to practice the skills with an instructor. My son was apprehensive about going to this class after not liking jujitsu, but he had a blast and we signed him up for 6 mo! So far a really great place for beginners!
Lisa C.
Mar 16, 2019
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Jen C.
Mar 06, 2019
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I took my daughter to class last night and she loved it and we are going back tonight. She had a blast the student to teacher ratio is awesome, they were very thorough and answered all my questions. Overall our experience has been awesome, and I can't wait for all she will learn and have a total blast doing it!
Clay T.
Jan 25, 2019
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We met Matthew as he walked our neighborhood looking to bring on new students. Very personable and engaged my son in conversation so that he wanted to check it out.
Though just one session in, my son nbn is very excited to pursue more sessions and in observing and then talking with the folks there, we are happy with their approach and handling of the kids.
Will update as we continue our progress towards his first belts!
Though just one session in, my son nbn is very excited to pursue more sessions and in observing and then talking with the folks there, we are happy with their approach and handling of the kids.
Will update as we continue our progress towards his first belts!
B. A.
Jun 29, 2018
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My son has been at Sandoval for a year now. He's learned a tremendous amount and I am
Highly impressed by the teachers and staff. The teachers do a great job of teaching the students while making it a fun and safe environment. They are fantastic with kids. The staff have also been very good at answering my questions. I also like how my son has progressed in class, but they promote when the child is ready. I appreciate not rewarding just to reward. Try out a class! We did and was impressed after the first class.
Highly impressed by the teachers and staff. The teachers do a great job of teaching the students while making it a fun and safe environment. They are fantastic with kids. The staff have also been very good at answering my questions. I also like how my son has progressed in class, but they promote when the child is ready. I appreciate not rewarding just to reward. Try out a class! We did and was impressed after the first class.
Ricky B.
Apr 12, 2018
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This company will never get my business. They cornered my kid at a donut shop and coerced my wife's phone number out of him. They've called us multiple times and we've clearly stated to not contact us anymore. Now they're showing up uninvited at our doorstep and aggressively trying to sell us on karate lessons while creepily asking about all our kids ages and other activities despite our clear lack of interest. This has turned into borderline harassment. Be warned! 1-Star because zero isn't an option.
Dustin J.
Feb 08, 2018
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I took my son here for the first time today, as he has just turned 3 and is at that age of enrolling in sports.
Upon arrival he was instructed to take his shoes off and sit on the mat. He was then placed with 2 other toddlers that had already been apart of the class, as they both had Sandoval Karate gear on. After 15 minutes of his first session, he was escorted back to me, and we were told to leave as he "doesn't have enough discipline". Mind you he was not yelling, screaming, throwing a fit or anything. He was just simply excited and couldn't keep his eyes forward at all
Upon arrival he was instructed to take his shoes off and sit on the mat. He was then placed with 2 other toddlers that had already been apart of the class, as they both had Sandoval Karate gear on. After 15 minutes of his first session, he was escorted back to me, and we were told to leave as he "doesn't have enough discipline". Mind you he was not yelling, screaming, throwing a fit or anything. He was just simply excited and couldn't keep his eyes forward at all
Leticia R.
Jul 25, 2017
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My daughter has been with Sandoval for 2 years and loves it! All the staff are amazing. They work well with my daughter and teach all the fundamentals of karate. My daughter has a learned a lot from the school and loves going each time. Sandoval is a great place where children learn focus, hard work, respect, and self defense.
Danny B.
Feb 03, 2017
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Bexx C.
Oct 14, 2016
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Please read this before signing up your chidren. Sandaval seems to appear as they are professional, however I was unable to continue taking my children to classes. I asked them to assist me with the contract and all they wanted was their money. They never even knew my children who attended the same class. They sent my outstanding balance to collections and would not come to an agreement to lower the remaining balance. My children only attended 4 classes before we could no longer go. I would never recommend this business to anyone. They are truly only out for money and not to teach children the
WatchMe C.
Jun 03, 2015
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Wax on. Wax off! This place is black belt! Bring your whole family!!!!
They do a really good job on teaching the art. Bathrooms are missing towel dispensers. The floor mats are very dirty. With all the kids that come here they should put one Clorox wipe in each of their hands and have them wax on and wax off the floor mats at least once a month.
Also the theme seems to be money. Buy these expensive uniforms that your kids will grow out of. Buy these expensive t-shirts that the kids will grow out of. But these body armor pads for sparing...but you can only buy ours. Buy these belts every couple
They do a really good job on teaching the art. Bathrooms are missing towel dispensers. The floor mats are very dirty. With all the kids that come here they should put one Clorox wipe in each of their hands and have them wax on and wax off the floor mats at least once a month.
Also the theme seems to be money. Buy these expensive uniforms that your kids will grow out of. Buy these expensive t-shirts that the kids will grow out of. But these body armor pads for sparing...but you can only buy ours. Buy these belts every couple
Summer R.
Feb 03, 2015
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I had completely forgotten about this place until a person called and left a message on my husbands phone, a year and a half after we were invited for a graduation ceremony.
Let me just say that I was highly disappointed in the way this company runs themselves. My son received a small training at Maxwell preschool Academy. We were to go to the karate place for his small graduation.
When we got there my son, who was 3 at the time, was terribly afraid of the loud noise and echoes that the small room created. Mind you, he had just had tubes put in. Previously everything sounded like he was underwater
Let me just say that I was highly disappointed in the way this company runs themselves. My son received a small training at Maxwell preschool Academy. We were to go to the karate place for his small graduation.
When we got there my son, who was 3 at the time, was terribly afraid of the loud noise and echoes that the small room created. Mind you, he had just had tubes put in. Previously everything sounded like he was underwater
