Kobukan Martial Arts Academy
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Kobukan Martial Arts Academy
Our mission is to inspire, encourage and educate our students through martial arts training and discipline to have an impact on their lives in a way that enriches not only themselves but also others. The philosophy at our studio is one of constant improvement. It is understood that perfection is unreachable and there is always work to be done and progress to be made.

We have found this to be a valuable life lesson that serves the student well beyond the martial arts arena. This class is appropriate for ages 4 & up and is a sport-based art with traditional techniques and skills. This class is for adults (ages 15 &up) and is a traditional style of white crane karate using a more upright stance.
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Our logo is a K in a circle, meaning the hall is the center of our attention. Turned on its side, it has dual meaning showing a) a tied black belt, the goal of martial training and b) a road to the sunset of success and achievement. Kobukan Martial Arts was established by Ron Manes in 2008 in Virginia Beach to offer further Advanced Karate and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instruction to students participating in other programs offered by Mr. Ron.
Roku GoRyu Shorin Ryu Karate (This Class is appropriate for ages 4 & Up) is a Sport-based art containing some of the traditional Matsumura Kata techniques and skills, but combined with higher kicking and faster hand drills. The students are allowed to create their own defenses in conjunction with the formal Kata.
We are committed to helping our military, police, fire and 1st responders and their families. We offer discounts that you can take advantage of when you come in and join our school. Many of these families find that the environment we offer can be comforting especially since many of our members are serving, are veterans, or are dependents.
Reviews (22)
Carson Pierce
Carson Pierce
Feb 03, 2022
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Passion and patience are the key qualities I see in the Owner/Main Instructor Mr. Ron, and it reflects in his students. My children came to this Dojo not knowing anything about martial arts or really too much for sportsmanship, and after attending this karate and jujitsu classes, are attentive and enthusiastic about school and home life.
The Owner is also a veteran and participates/host veteran meets organizations. This is a great place for adults and children to learn an art and self discipline.
Maike
Maike
Dec 04, 2021
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I have picked up Kickboxing at Kobukan a few months ago, and every week I am looking forward to class. The teachers are talented, kind and patient. It is hard to describe, but there is just a really good atmosphere at Kobukan and I always look forward to coming back here. I haven taken the Kickboxing classes of Darryl (MO - WED - FRI) and Katie (TUE - THU). Both teachers have their very own style and personality. But whichever class you take, the classes are really fun and you will learn a lot.
Gede Parwata
Gede Parwata
Nov 19, 2021
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This place is giving me the most beautiful memories when I was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. I can't find the same experience somewhere else. Its a martial arts academy that not only teaches you on how to be a better fighter, but to be a better human being and make you feel like a part of family. The academy is clean, spacious and the teacher is expert on what they do. 10 out of 10 recommend!!!
Mr. Uso
Mr. Uso
Nov 15, 2021
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Kobukan is a great institution for any martial artist, new or returning. Mr. Ron & his staff are experts at what they do. The school is military friendly & provide women-only classes. It is a welcoming environment with positive vibes set for growth.
Standards are set high, and they will do everything in their power to ensure all their students meet the criteria. If you are trying to buy your way up the ranks; this is not the place for you. All who attend here have earned their status, & you can, too. Training is intense, but the rewards are worth it. This is a gym that capitalize on potential
Alisha Winegarden
Alisha Winegarden
Oct 21, 2021
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I dropped in for the womens only class held on Mondays and was very surprised at how inviting the dojo was. I was greeted and included without hesitation. I left with friends and a dojo away from home to visit when I'm in the area.
If your looking for more than just training this is the place for you.
Jason D.
Jason D.
Oct 05, 2021
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My daughter has been attending Jiu Jitsu classes here twice a week for almost a year now.

The coaching staff are patient, kind and fun with the kids while also firm and push them to better themselves and do better

Highly recommend!
CJ'S. Info
CJ'S. Info
Sep 22, 2021
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Kobukan Martial Arts Academy is an excellent place to learn Karate 🥋and much more! All of the instructors are professional, disciplined, patient and understanding! They’re great with kids too! My daughter loves going here and is always looking forward to her next Karate class! I myself decided to pursue the Karate path and I’m loving every moment of it. The prices are very reasonable! I highly recommend KMAA! Domo Arigato! Semper Fidelis!
Sara Scott
Sara Scott
Sep 02, 2021
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I've only been with Kobukan in kickboxing for a couple months now, but I have not been disappointed yet. They are fun, kind and engaging and you never feel less than or embarrassed as a beginner. Ms. Katie and Mr. Darrell are great teachers and I look forward to working with them long-term.
Brooke F.
Brooke F.
Aug 07, 2021
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Felt welcome and comfortable from the minute we walked in. Wonderful instructors and more experienced students even helped newer students with instruction. Would definitely recommend.
Joshua Garver
Joshua Garver
May 26, 2021
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My four year old has been in the tough pups jiu jitsu class for almost a month. He is very hyper active and has a hard time paying attention. The coaches are very patient. The more advanced students who help are alsoo the same way. They give him one on one time to try to show him how to do things. He wakes up every morning he has it and wants to leave at nine am. I always have to tell him it isn't until the evening.
Kimberly H.
Kimberly H.
Oct 21, 2020
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This is a great place, They offer classes for children and adults. My son and I love going to class as all the coaches are amazing and so patient with us. They do a great job making everyone feel as though we are part of one big family . We are so glad we came across this Kobukan Academy.
Melissa D.
Melissa D.
Oct 13, 2020
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I had no Idea I needed martial arts in my life until I came to Kobukan, I have never done this in my life and Mr. Ron and all the other coaches are amazing, I have been going for about a month now and I absolutely love being there no matter how sore I am.
Cori Thompson
Cori Thompson
Jul 10, 2020
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Signed my 5 year old daughter up to give her an outlet and learn some structure. The school is like a family and welcomed us in with open arms! Thhe instructors are incredibly patient but firm. She has beeen going now for over 6 months and the change in her attitude is amazing. She's mlre confident, calm, and focused. This school doesnt just teach karate, but teaches the kids how to become wonderful human being. Mr. Ron is amazing!
Emily G.
Emily G.
Mar 13, 2019
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My family loves Kobukan! Started coming here last summer as my kindergartener needed an activity to help him focus and learn respect. He's come a long way since his first class and still has a lot of work to do. That's the great thing about learning martial arts at Kobukan, the work is never done.

After a few months I decided to try their kickboxing program. I love attending Katie's classes. She is a thoughtful instructor who accommodates all fitness levels.

This dojo is family and military friendly. Husband deployed and need to get your workout in? Capable hands are usually
Allison M.
Allison M.
Jan 05, 2019
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My son has been attending Kobukan for almost a year now. I can honestly say that it has been such a fantastic experience for him all around. They are friendly and welcoming, they are supportive and instructive, and they really strive to teach you more than just martial arts. I think one of the greatest things I have found is that they don't hand belts to just anyone, and they really make you work for it and make sure that you truly know what you're doing. My son enjoys karate so much that he has asked to start BJJ, so not only will we be continuing but we will be expanding our class intake
Estrella G.
Estrella G.
Nov 14, 2018
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I have never done BJJ or kickboxing before. I called to ask a few questions and Mr. Ron told me to come try out the different classes for myself. Yeah I was nervous to walk in for the first time but you will get used to it. Although I do not bring any friends or family with me, it is very family oriented and the staff is welcoming and well versed. Often classes will have multiple family members in the same class; there's no better place for you to bring your kid to workout with you. No matter what your level is, you will have a great training experience. I joined in September 2018 and will
Nicole L.
Nicole L.
Nov 11, 2018
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My 4 year old attends this dojo. He is taught with respect and knowledge of the sport and all of its requirements to succeed. Each student is taught and trained by professional and trustworthy instructors.

The cost is affordable with the many discounts they offer.

It's very family oriented, professional.
Justin C.
Justin C.
Sep 28, 2018
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The crew here is awesome! They've taken me in and helped me grow exponentially within the short amount of time that I've been in town. Mr. Ron has created an environment vibrant in jiu jitsu culture, providing a healthy learning habitat for all practitioners. Looking forward to coming back :)
Cynthia R.
Cynthia R.
Aug 17, 2018
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I needed to get my kid some physical activity and do something other than talk about video games. He refused to even consider martial arts. As a parent, I knew the discipline and work ethic would help him today and beyond in his life. So, as all good mom's do when they are desperate and determined...I lied to him.

I contacted the owner Ron on Facebook and asked if he could help. He agreed. So, we went to say hi to my friend, Ron.

The gym was clean, neat and organized. Students were respectful to adults and adults respect all students. Young adults and teens help the younger kids. Everyone
Alex
Alex
Aug 11, 2017
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This gym has a great Jiu Jitsu teacher Ron, chill vibes and is the best place the local area. Also it is close to the Naval base if you are stationed there. Kobukan has a lot of potential to grow and is a great place to train for anyone at any skill level.
My background: Wrestler, coach, Blue belt in jiu jitsu, I have trained at many different gyms and can tell which ones are good.
Jamie M.
Jamie M.
May 24, 2017
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I started attending adult kickboxing classes from a Groupon and was expecting to try out a few different places to see which I liked the most. The only other place I had tried was ILKB. And OMG I don't need to shop around anymore! This place is awesome! They work with you to teach you the proper positioning and movements and help you do things the right way. The classes are pretty small, so you get more feedback from the instructors and they're good at learning your limits and helping you improve and push past them. Everyone who works there is super friendly and makes you feel comfortable
Ben D.
Ben D.
May 03, 2017
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I've been training at Kobukan dojo for about 4 months now and I love showing up everyday I can to learn. The staff awesome and friendly, Professor Ron is an excellent coach and I look forward to training with him at Kobukan as long as I'm in the area! Highly recommend this place to anyone looking to get into martial arts!