Aaction Martial Arts specializes in private lessons (30-60 minute blocks) Tuesday thru Friday from 12:00-9:00 PM! We offer both in-person and virtual lessons to offer greater flexibility. We also conduct daytime and evening group classes. 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.
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.
Services
Through centuries of oriental development and refinement, physical blows, punches and kicks have been perfected to an art form. Kenpo Karate teaches how to down an opponent through highly skilled coordination and manipulation of hands, feet, knees, and elbows. Maneuvers by expert Kenpoists are swift, precise, and powerful.
The Kids Program (ages 7+) focuses on providing powerful benefits while imparting valuable self-defense knowledge - safely and responsibly. Confidence, discipline, and respect are a top priority. Lessons are designed to boost focus, develop healthy habits, improve balance and coordination, and of course, gain self-defense skill to prevent and conquer bullying.
Our Adult Programs offer Springfield's most flexible schedules. We have daytime and evening classes, and provide both group and private lessons with expert instructors. With our focus on self-development through self-defense, we're confident we can help you achieve your goals whether it's to improve your health and wellness, have fun with new friends, develop focus and self-defense skill, or enhance balance and coordination.
Reviews (10)
Stefanie Ostendorf
Jul 22, 2021
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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
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
K. Woodring
Oct 18, 2017
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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!
Randy Mitchum
Jul 13, 2017
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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!
Jacob D.
Nov 03, 2016
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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
Mike Jones
Oct 22, 2016
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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
Michael Goldsmith
Jan 12, 2016
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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.
Mark Wells
Oct 11, 2015
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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
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
Michael Witt
Aug 29, 2015
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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.
Jerry Wickens
Aug 17, 2015
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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
Mark Retana
Jul 05, 2013
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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!
