★ 5

I have been training with Sensei Oliver since I was four years old. Not only has this dojo taught me valuable life skills, like learning how to properly shake someone’s hand, but it has also guided me throughout my whole life, always being a pillar of love and support when I needed it.

The dojo has helped me navigate life as a young adult and supported me in my education. I learned so many listening and focus skills from Sensei Oliver that I was able to maintain strong grades throughout my early years of school, and eventually graduate as valedictorian of my high school.

After many years of training, I was also given the opportunity to teach at this dojo. That experience gave me the chance to work with all age groups and to learn how to effectively teach and share knowledge.

This dojo strives to give you the best possible experience in training, fitness, and community. I could not recommend this place enough — it has truly been my heart and soul throughout my life. If you are looking for a dojo here in Sacramento, this is the place for you.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been a student at ZMA for a little under a year. I have been involved in martial arts for over 20 years and can confirm with full confidence this dojo is the best of the best. Sensei Oliver is patient, kind and always provides an exemplary level of knowledge to students. If you want to feel like you are a part of something bigger than yourself, if you want to feel respected and valued (no matter your skill level), this is the place for you. I am also a mom and I know how important it is to find safe spaces and safe role models for our children. Zen is that safe place. I’ve witnessed the budding confidence and courage of young people on the mat. Karate skills are wonderful, but your children will thrive with life skills at Zen as well.

Source: Google

★ 5

I am so glad we discovered Zen Martial Arts for our two sons. We were looking for an activity for them that would help them with their self esteem but also help teach them discipline and respect. I think we made a great choice signing them up. They have so much fun and learn so much valuable skills! I love watching them practice with dad at home.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

There are not enough words to describe how outstanding this dojo is. Zen Martial Arts was recommended to me by a couple local moms when I reached out about suggestions to help my 5 year old daughter’s self-confidence issues, and it has been working wonders for her. Sensei Oliver and his team went above and beyond to boost her confidence and fill their students with inspiration and encouragement. They know exactly what to say to make kids feel comfortable, safe, and encouraged, while also having them try their best and follow the dojo rules without making them feel ashamed for messing up. The community they have created there is wonderful, and we’re so glad to be a part of it. Thank you, Sensei Oliver, for making my girl feel so good about herself, and for going above and beyond to do so.

If you’re considering where to have your child (or you!) take some karate lessons, look no further than Zen!

Source: Google

★ 5

We LOVE Zen Martial Arts. Sensei Oliver and his staff are fantastic with kids, teaching them lessons that will serve them well in life.

As an adult at 45, I’ve also just started training with them. It’s a great workout and a great way to learn something new. My son and I now practice 3-5 days per week. Couldn’t recommend this practice more.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

What a wonderful place to take your kids. My son loves it and learns so much each class. It is clean, friendly, punctual, organized and fun!!:) they teach life lessons along with discipline and karate. Definitely recommend!!:)

Source: Google

★ 5

I‘m pretty sure I’ve never written a review for anything, but I feel compelled to do so for this truly outstanding dojo. I found Zen Martial Arts two years ago when my daughter binged the show Cobra Kai and decided that she, too, would like to learn karate. I researched local dojos and was immediately drawn to ZMA just from reading through their website. We signed up for classes and never looked back. Karate has been an incredibly positive force in my daughter’s life and I think that’s largely due to her awesome teacher, Sensei Mike Oliver, whose deep love of practicing and teaching Isshinryu Karate is undeniable. He really pours his heart and soul into this work and clearly has fun doing so. His teachings go far beyond the physical exercise and self-defense skills people tend to associate with karate. Mindfulness, self-discipline, respect for self and others, the value of community, all of these things and more are encompassed in the teachings. They even learn some history and Japanese language! My daughter went from 2 classes a week at the beginning, to now attending 8 classes a week, including weapons training, sensei apprenticeship, and competition team, as well as assisting in classes for younger kids weekly. She absolutely loves it and I can’t recommend them enough. If you’re looking for a dojo in the Sacramento area, this one can’t be beat.

Source: Google

★ 5

Because of Sensei Oliver & Zen Martial Arts, our child has opportunities to practice bravery in new situations and patience with himself as he learns. It's brought us joy to watch him become more of himself at the dojo, and through the application of its lessons at home, in school, and with his many enemies (only kidding).

Source: Google

★ 5

I am so glad I chose to enroll my child. I have seen tremendous growth and maturity in my child just over the past year alone. Not only is he learning how to properly protect himself while channeling his energy towards something positive and essential — but I have also noticed a greater sense of emotional development, assertiveness, greater self-confidence, lessen aggressive feelings (especially as a pre-teen boy) and an increase in his self-esteem. I have found that Zen Martial Arts has helped him hone his innate leadership abilities as well. The entire staff here is amazing and we have developed a sense of community and tight knit friendships with other families who children also attend the Dojo. I highly recommend martial arts if you are looking to better cultivate these attributes in your own little ones. Definitely worth the investment. 😊

Source: Google

★ 5

If you are looking for a great martial arts dojo look no further. This is your place. My daughter started in Tiny Tigers and has been here for several years. She has learned to be confident and disciplined as well as tough. We owe so much to a great Leader and Teacher Sensei Oliver. This man pours his soul into his students and leads with a positive example. In addition to martial arts the students receive situational life skills that will stay with them forever. Thanks Sensei for your contributions.

Source: Google

★ 5

Excellent dojo! Sensei Oliver is a great instructor and really takes the time to help the students. His dojo is about more than hits and kicks. It’s about the discipline and culture around karate. Highly recommend this dojo.

Source: Google

★ 5

The Distance Learning program saved our school year! For two working parents the overseeing of the distance learning added additional stress during an already stressful time. We noticed our relationships were being pushed to the limits. The distance learning at Zen Martial arts allowed us to be supportive parents rather than the teacher and tech support and focus on our jobs. Not only has our daughter received the support she needed, she also had the benefit of other peers (at a safe distance and wearing masks), friends to eat lunch with, recess on an actual playground with equipment, and Martial Arts with Mr. Oliver after school. We were new to Martial Arts and she is hooked. And as another unexpected bonus, science experiments during free time. The fee includes the use of all the school supplies necessary including whiteboard colored pencils, chromebook, art supplies as well as legos, battleship, Mad Libs and other fun activities to entertain rather than more online games! Mr. David is incredibly calm and patient and it is clear that he is inspired by kids and learning. Mr. Oliver is outstanding and a fantastic mentor to many children, teens and even grown adults. We immediately felt part of the karate community, which feels like a family. I highly recommend this program for any active kids and especially for parents who are done with overseeing distance learning!

Source: Google

★ 5

Sensei Mike Oliver was doing an incredible job before COVID. The way he's handled the past few months during COVID has only solidified my opinion of his comittmrnt to his students and to our community. He's been on on top of everything from the very beginning and I feel good about my son's participation in Zoom classes and modified in person classes. I wholeheartedly recommend Zen Martial and would encourage any student who is interested in trying martial arts to consider doing it, even now. Trying classes via Zoom is a great way to check it out.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been so happy to be part of the Zen Martial Arts community for 8 years. Both my children have taken classes, from the "Tiny Tiger" level up to the juniors, and Mr. Oliver is calm, patient, and communicative (even when both my kids are sometimes difficult to work with -- my older child is autistic).

One of the things I appreciate most is that Mr. Oliver does not just teach kicks and punches, but also self-discipline, respect, how to manage anger, how to use "verbal karate" to avoid a conflict, and he has a strong service component woven in to the curriculum. Students are encouraged to contribute to their communities, and even to focus on particular areas of interest, like animal welfare or feeding the hungry.

I could not recommend Zen Martial Arts any more highly!

Source: Google

★ 5

Very impressed with Zen Martial Arts. My daughter has always been interested in trying Karate but was too timid to move beyond interest. We learned of ZMA through a friend but this was about the time of Covid lockdowns. My daughter agreed to intro through Zoom and loved working with Sensei Oliver immediately. The Zoom class offered her comfort in her own home for the start up but then was eager to get to the dojo for the real deal. I was apprehensive at first as our family had been following the shelter-in-place guidelines closely. Once indoor activity was granted we were pleasantly surprised by the attentive safety practices occurring. It felt very comfortable and safe, even in a time I was sure I could not feel that way. The dojo was sterile, floors cleaned between every class, temps taken upon arrival, masks worn, one way in/out, fancy ventilation system, you name it-they got it covered. These karate lessons and the need for safe interaction is just what my daughter needed during these crazy times. If you are considering karate for yourself or child-hesitate no longer. Zen Martial Arts is your place for comfort and quality.

Source: Google

★ 4

Source: Google

★ 5

We are very careful in choosing the adults we allow to have influence and authority over our only child. We had visited 3 other places before friends suggested we visit Mike Oliver at the Coloma Center. After our first visit, we knew we would be back. After the first week, we knew we had found a Sensei and a dojo. After the first month, we knew we had found a mentor. Five years later, Mike Oliver is more than a friend. He demonstrates the character traits we want to see in our child. Integrity, kindness, discipline, fairness, and sincerity among others.
Sensei Oliver cultivates a fun relaxed atmosphere, while emphasizing tradition and cultural connection, and the new dojo at 4819 J street is beautiful. We are grateful to have found Zen Martial Arts, and Sensei Mike Oliver.

Source: Google

★ 5

Sensei Oliver has an amazing ability to speak to kids in an engaging way, completely on their level. Highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Sensei Oliver is the best!! My 8 year old daughter has grown in her strength and ability. My daughter is a very shy kid, through the dojo she has become more outspoken and assertive. The lessons the kids take home not only focus on strengthening skills and defensive techniques, but also in mindful acts and community outreach. I love this Dojo and Sensei Oliver, I couldn't ask for a better place for my child to study martial arts!! I highly recommended this Dojo!

Source: Google

★ 5

Wonderful supportive dojo that cultivates peace in every way.

Source: Google

★ 5

I can't write enough good things about Zen Martial Arts and Sensei Oliver. My 9 year old son started about six months ago and is having a great experience. Sensei Oliver is amazing with the kids - he is patient and fun, but he also commands and teaches respect. The focus is on much more than a physical practice (my son made his bed everyday for a month because Sensei asked the class to work on self-discipline). He teaches loyalty, positivity, dedication, and most importantly he teaches the kids how to stand up for themselves and for others. I'm also very sensitive to how girls are treated in coed sports, and I've seen zero difference in how Sensei Oliver works with boys versus girls. This is a great place to bring your kids to learn a sport and to learn great values.

Source: Google

★ 5

I brought my younger brother to Sensei Oliver's dojo because he finally made his decision on a hobby. Sensei is extremely patient with kids, especially with the naughty ones who eventually learns how to respect and behave in class. A couple months later, I enrolled myself in the adults class to learn how to properly defend myself in the right time. Not only am I learning karate, I am learning how to better myself as a person and how to handle life as it comes at me. Sensei makes class fun and helps me exercise my strength, focus, and reaction. I did not expect to gain so much from my little time here so far and I will continue to keep learning at this dojo.

Source: Google

★ 5

Our family of 4 trains at Zen Martial and we can't recommend it highly enough.

Pros:

Every class balances physical exertion, practical skills, contemplation, and moral instruction (or reminders, depending on age). History is also a welcome frequent topic.

We sometimes leave class a little bruised, but always feeling better than when we went in.

Sensei Oliver clearly loves teaching all ages and all skills. He always offers insightful tips, a practice that is part of the culture at the dojo: everyone is sincerely friendly and helpful.

Sensei Oliver cares very deeply about his charges and the larger community. When our youngest faced a bullying situation, Sensei sought him out, listened closely then offered practical advice and emotional support. Over the course of the evening, our son went from resigned to resolute.

Cons: Will update the review when and if we encounter a negative. There is definitely some soreness from time to time, but that is to be expected (and isn't really a negative).

Source: Google

★ 5

I visited 3 martial arts programs before choosing this one. I am so glad we found Zen Martial Arts! Sensei Oliver is great with kids and adults. He teaches so many concepts in an age appropriate way. I love that our values of respect for others,kindness, compassion and self control are reinforced in word and deed. We are grateful for this Sensei.

Source: Google

★ 5

I simply can't imagine a better dojo for my child. Mr. Oliver is patient, firm, and funny. He engages the kids with a variety of games, practice, and lessons in things like healthy eating, self-discipline, and respect. I'm a teacher, so I recognize good teaching when I see it, and he's one of the best. He praises kids for good work, good effort, and improvement, and lets them know when he needs them to do better. He encourages kids and gets the best out of them every class. I wish I had the time to take adult classes, and I've never been interested in martial arts myself! At Zen Martial Arts, it's not just about the practice of karate; it's about that and so much more -- community service, values, and celebrating each student's achievement. I cannot recommend it highly enough.

Source: Google

★ 5

I couldn't be more pleased with Sensei Mike Oliver and his dojo! My daughter who is in kindergarten wanted to try karate and we feel so fortunate to have found this place. I like that Sensei Oliver focuses on empowering the kids and giving them important tools and strategies if they ever encounter bullies. It is such a wonderful positive environment that my daughter and I both enjoy. If any parent is considering a karate class I highly recommend this one!

Source: Google

★ 5

I wasn't looking for a karate instructor when I started karate classes with Sensei Oliver. I followed a good friend who had her own reasons for attending (that involved sons who also take classes from Sensei Oliver), into his adult beginner classes at Coloma Center. My friend had assured me that Sensei Oliver "just has a way about him" that fosters community and she was sure I would appreciate his approach and demeanor.

She didn't even realize at the time that as a kid I'd taken karate classes from a man I'd feared and hated--had I decided to shop for instructors, I would have had a long list of requirements. Sensei Oliver would have met them all.

As another friend with children in Sensei's class has said, "I heart Sensei Oliver." He has a genius for personalized instruction among students of varying levels that doesn't just address their skill needs but their broader, more holistic development as a student of Isshinryu karate, a training of the mind and character, as well as the body.

My friend's description of him was perfect and in contrast to my prior experience, I respect and trust Sensei Oliver and deeply enjoy my training in his dojo and within the community he creates around it.

Source: Google