Vertical Taekwondo

Lee's Summit, 1159 NE Rice Rd, Lee's Summit, MO 64086 | ★ 5 (74 Review)

📞 +1 816-500-1197

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Taekwondo school Karate school Martial arts school

About the Club

Martial Arts/Karate/Taekwondo Classes for Ages 4+

Help you or your Child build a better future by developing a lifelong love for Fitness, Listening Skills, Self Defense, and Character.

Located in Lees Summit we are the number one, best reviewed Martial Arts Studio

Come see how Martial Arts can be a life changing experience for you and your child.

Develop focus, perseverance, and confidence in a format designed to push students to be the best versions of themselves.

Martial Arts isn't just a sport, it changes lives.

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 Vertical Taekwondo
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Reviews

Mizz Baum

★ 5

The teachers are gifted with kids, respectful & engaging! They call them to a higher standard! My boys are growing in self awareness and respect. My 9yr old particular loves it! Highly recommend!

Source: Google

Vincent-Sara Manning

★ 5

We have really enjoyed our experience at Vertical Taekwondo. Our daughter has struggled committing to activities but she loves going to class each week. Mr. Catana is great with the kids. He manages to be both friendly and firm, and it’s clear that the students respond well to his teaching style. The flexible class structure is also a big help. We plan on attending for the foreseeable future!

Source: Google

Leanna Jaymes

★ 5

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Cameron Macias

★ 5

My 4 year old daughter loves going here. The instructors are great with the kids and teach kindness, respect and confidence.

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Yurii Tyvonchuk

★ 5

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Erika Moss

★ 5

My daughter recently started with Vertical Taekwondo and absolutely loves it! It is a structured learning environment, but also fun for the kids. Mr. Catana is great, and you can tell he has a passion for Taekwondo and teaching the children. My daughter always looks forward to her classes and has pride in completing the challenges. She has also gained more confidence throughout the last few months. Thank you!

Source: Google

Mackenzie Rennolet

★ 5

My 9 yr old has been attending Vertical Taekwondo for 3 months with no prior martial arts experience. So far he is loving it! Mr. Catana is great at keeping the kids engaged and learning. This has been great for my son to develop his respect for others, courtesy, integrity, and also burn some energy. Mr Catana has been great at receiving feedback and providing targeted guidance for specific kids/scenarios, but is not overly critical at this age. I would recommend this class.

Source: Google

Christian Roustic

★ 5

Our son always enjoys coming here and looks forward to it every time. Mr. Catana always does a great job with the sessions and couldn’t be more pleased with what we’re seeing as a result

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Cassy Beers

★ 5

Our son absolutely loves coming to taekwondo twice a week at Vertical! He has always struggled with confidence and Mr. Catana’s classes are helping so much with bringing that out! The strength he is getting from class is helping in other areas as well! We are so glad we were referred to Vertical by our friends and we can’t wait to see how our son continues to flourish! Thank you Mr. Catana and Ms. Lana for being so great and patient!

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Katie Lattin

★ 5

Absolutely love the skills an values Mr. Katana is teaching my son. He works really well with all the kids! My son is definitely showing alot of improvement in his every day attitude towards his family an peers! I definitely would highly recommend!

Source: Google

Sia Kellie

★ 5

My daughter love the class. The instructor interact with all the kids.They laugh and tell jokes. He motivate them and encourage them to do their best.I enjoyed watching all the kids learn.

Source: Google

John Walsh

★ 5

I'm more than pleased with our experience with Mr. Catana and Vertical Taekwondo! Mr. Catana is great with his students and I enjoy watching my child grow and learn more and more with each visit. Highly recommend signing up for classes!

Source: Google

Anastasiia Tyvonchuk

★ 5

Perfect place for your child)
Parents can either stay and watch their kids train or leave during the classes. The atmosphere here is warm and welcoming. But the most important part is the coach. Mr. Catana is the best coach we have ever met. He is really fun and strict at the same time. He is patient and very supportive. He encourages kids to believe in themselves. He is freaking motivating! My son was insecure and doubtful. Vertical Taekwondo helped him become more confident. Mr. Catana knows how to work with kids by combining physical activity, discipline, and fun. My son likes this place so much, and so do I! And he looooves Mr. Catana. Definitely recommend this place!

Source: Google

Bethany Van Lant

★ 5

Excellent classes and instructor. I looked at several taekwondo classes in the area. I’m glad we found vertical taekwondo. I recommend Mr. Catana. He is very responsive to questions and worked with my son’s hectic schedule to include him in multiple classes. He sends reminders about scheduling, payment, and testing. He includes an earning system for skill accomplishments. My son received several band colors on his belt to mark his accomplishments between belt testing. I really like the character building assignments that are given out periodically. They were easy to follow and complete. For example, my son had to document saying “yes sir” for 5 days at home. Easy to do and gives them something to accomplish even outside of class. When parents are looking for an after school activity I recommend vertical taekwondo.

Source: Google

Jeanette Tryon

★ 5

Mr. Catana is amazing. He does amazing work with everyone. He is kind and patient. My daughter loves doing Taekwondo at Vertical. She is learning so much and I couldn’t be prouder.

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K Medina

★ 5

Man where do I start about Mr Catana. He’s so patient and for that I really appreciate him for. My son’s confidence has gone through the roof. I don’t how he did it but I appreciate u and my son can’t wait to come back

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Jess Conway

★ 5

My 6 year old LOVES coming here! It’s taught him patience, discipline, and to pay attention to detail. Mr. Catana knows exactly how to get the kids engaged while still having a blast.

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Delchaun Woods

★ 5

Excellent job we love this place they are very professional and on point I recommend going here it's a very nice place

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Brian Breit

★ 5

So far so good! My son has been going to Vertical Taekwondo for about 6 weeks or so and is really enjoying it. I am enjoying it as well. He definetly is getting the interaction and physical activity that I was hoping for! He has been learning alot here and he has been coming home wanting to practice and get better each time. My son recently got into an altercation at school and I talked to him about it myself. I also mentioned it to Mr. Catana (fitting name btw) and he was true to what he said at the beginning and talked with him as well. I appreciate that because not only is the focus on self defense practice but also about being a better person. I enjoy the ways that both are being incorporated into the practice. Honestly I am glad we chose to come here because it is an all around experience for my young son. He is becoming a better person on top of learning to become the power ranger he aspires to be some day!!

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Amber Sexton

★ 5

My daughter has been with Vertical Taekwondo since November 2022, and we are beyond pleased with our experience! Mr. Catana is highly skilled, patient, and incredibly motivating. He focuses not only on teaching effective techniques but also on instilling values like discipline, respect, and perseverance. The classes are well-structured, and there's a perfect balance between rigorous training and fun activities.

We've noticed significant improvements in her skills, flexibility, and overall confidence. The community here is supportive, and everyone encourages each other to push beyond their limits. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced martial artist, this is the perfect place to enhance your skills and grow as a person. I highly recommend Vertical Taekwondo to anyone interested in learning Taekwondo!

Source: Google

Amy Treece

★ 5

The owner is the one who teaches the kids and he’s super awesome with them. He knows how to talk to them and make them laugh and feel comfortable while also requiring them to be respectful and listen. My kid (7.5yo girl) has adhd (possible autism spectrum) and she loves going, this is the first activity she has stuck out and never complains about going to! I will be keeping her in the class until she decides she’s done but it’s been great for her in so many ways! He also does great activities for at home like check off sheet where they’ll get an extra stripe on their belt if they say “yes/no, sir/mam” without being prompted, or check off for being out of their way nice, and things like that. Overall, I’m super pleased with this place!

Source: Google

Forest Fisk

★ 5

Mr. Katana is an exceptional instructor. As the sole instructor at the dojo, his passion for teaching shines through every day, inspiring students to strive for their best. He strikes a perfect balance—neither overly strict nor lenient—creating a positive and motivating environment. The classes are well-structured, enjoyable, and welcoming. As a new student at 40, I have found this a wonderful opportunity to bond with my 12-year-old, attending the same class together.

Source: Google

Shayla Davis

★ 5

My daughters absolutely love their class with Mr.Catana. They look forward to going to class every week I like that out outside of class they can and will just start doing moves anywhere. I could not ask for a better teacher for Maliyah and Londin I love that Mr.Catana has taught them respect patience and structure.

Amazing job Mr.Catana

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Lotuss Sunflowerr

★ 5

my daughter has been going for over a month now and she absolutely loves it!! Mr. Catana really works with the kiddos and helps them believe in themselves. 10/10 absolutely recommend!

Source: Google

Mary Humphreys

★ 5

My child has been attending Vertical Taekwondo under the instruction of Mr. Catana for several months now, and I couldn't be more impressed with the program. Mr. Catana is not only a skilled practitioner of Taekwondo but also a fantastic instructor who truly knows how to connect with kids. His classes are not just about learning martial arts; they're about building confidence, discipline, and respect in a fun and engaging way.

Mr. Catana's approach is both nurturing and motivating, which has helped my child develop a genuine passion for Taekwondo. He creates a positive and inclusive atmosphere where my child feels supported and encouraged to do their best. The progress my child has made under his guidance is remarkable, both in terms of their physical abilities and their overall character development.

I highly recommend Vertical Taekwondo and Mr. Catana to any parent looking for a martial arts program that not only teaches valuable skills but also fosters a sense of community and personal growth. Thank you, Mr. Catana, for your dedication and passion in shaping the next generation of martial artists!

Source: Google

Heather Wilson

★ 5

Awesome instructor and great environment- balances teaching with fun, while instilling values of respect, self control, hard work, and perseverance. My kiddo started without any experience, and the growth he has made in Taekwondo and as a person have both been wonderful.

Source: Google

heather sartin

★ 5

This is the main thing that my son looks forward to every week! He has learned so much and his changes are awesome to see. He still has his moments as a 7 year old, but they are getting fewer. Mr. Catana is the best teacher. He gets on their level and talks to them not over their heads. He has made a tremendous impact in bettering my son’s behavior. An absolute Sanity Saver!

Source: Google

Melia Stolberg

★ 5

Mr. Catana is an extremely patient and excellent instructor. My son has been in his little dragons for close to a year now and we’ve seen so much growth in his confidence and self esteem. Not only that, my son gets quite loud and easily distracted and Mr. Catana is immediately able to re-orient him and get him to pay attention with firm but gentle instructions.

I would 100% recommend vertical taekwondo to anyone interested in taekwondo but also for those parents with children who need a healthy activity outlet and program to foster confidence and growth in their child.

Source: Google

Jina Price

★ 5

My son loves coming to vertical! He gets so excited to go to class and the discipline He’s learning will help as he starts school and the kids have so much fun!

Source: Google

Kailey Wickett

★ 5

The instructor is wonderful with the children and my son has improved greatly with manors and behaviors. This was a great investment for my sons future

Source: Google

Crystal Smotherman

★ 5

My 7 year old daughter LOVES taekwondo with Mr. Catana. She has learned so much and continues to grow with each belt she earns. Mr. Catana teaches in a way that is digestible for kids so they feel confident when they perform each new skill.

Source: Google

Megan Salerno

★ 5

Amazing experience! My kids are loving learning these new skills. Mr. Catana has a great way of teaching with humor and fun but also teaching them to be patient and respectful.

Source: Google

Afrikbabe A.

★ 5

I highly recommend this establishment! Instructor is great and very good with kids. Class times are very flexible. My son loves going to class and I have seen a major improvement in his skills and self esteem.

Source: Google

crazy kid creations

★ 5

We are loving our experience at Vertical Taekwondo! We could not be more thrilled. Mr C is so knowledgeable and works so well with the kids. Our son has gained confidence, core strength, and flexibility and loves going to class . We can't recommend them enough! ☺

Source: Google

Hanna Testerman

★ 5

My son absolutely loves Mr. Catana’s classes! Since he started I've seen a huge improvement in self-confidence, respect, and his listening skills. He looks forward to going to lessons every week and I do not see that changing anytime soon! Mr. Catana runs a smooth and fun class! As a parent, I enjoy the charts the kids are sent home with!! This has helped tremendously in my household every time!!

Source: Google

Henry Earley

★ 5

You are a great teacher, I like your flags, and I have a lot of fun here.

Source: Google

B. Williams

★ 5

Great opportunity for children to gain confidence and learn the art of Taekwondo. The instructor holds every student accountable, ensures proper discipline while maintaining a fun atmosphere. Highly recommended.

Source: Google

Stephanie Dein

★ 5

My child loves going to Vertical Taekwondo! Excellent instructor. I appreciate seeing his patience with all the students in addition to explaining certain moves in a way the kids can understand. Add on the additional areas the kids learn and develop: self-control, discipline, confidence, etc. It's been great for our 9 year old and we would absolutely recommend this location to others who are looking for classes.

Source: Google

Mia Dior

★ 5

I’ve never met a man more patient and great with kids! Mr. Catana is AMAZING have both my girls in his class and they absolutely LOVE him! They can’t wait to get home and practice everything they learned in class for the week until the next class rolls around (they do 2 classes per week). My girls will remain here for awhile! Absolutely love this class! This is your sign to go ahead and enroll your child! They’ll love it!

Source: Google

Jennifer Henderson

★ 5

Vertical Taekwondo has been absolutely amazing for our grandson!! He’s learned so much and has changed so much since being in the little dragons class. Mr. Catana has taught him self-control and discipline in a way that’s also nurturing and fun. To watch our grandson strive in class every week is so incredible to witness. We are so thankful we found this class, it’s so perfect for our grandson and his needs.

Source: Google

RADA PALMER

★ 5

Vertical Taekwondo is great place . Mr. Catana is awesome teacher , he is giving so much attention to each student. Having small class really helps so each student gets recognized for their effort . We love Mr. Catana because he is very patient with kids and teaches them respect and discipline among other things.

Source: Google

Jereme Snider

★ 5

Vertical taekwondo has been an amazing outlet and learning experience for my 6yr son. He is learning respect, integrity, perseverance and discipline. It is great for all ages and I have recommended MR. Katana and Vertical Taekwondo to everyone I know. 10/10 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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Shatara Willis

★ 5

My son loves Taekwondo with Mr. Catana he started when he was 8 and has grown so much in a few months He is very excited to go class and learn new moves. Mr. Catana really cares about my son even with all of my sons disabilities Mr.Catana has never made him feel like he couldn’t do great things my son has come such a long way to be where he is right now . Thank you for all you do for me and my son.

Source: Google

Christi Leslie

★ 5

Vertical Taekwondo is teaching my kiddo how to ground himself, helping focus his energy into something positive, and using some of that endless energy! (His class has been requesting burpees lately...) We're four belts in and class days are his favorite days. Mr. Catana is such a great teacher with more patience than you can even imagine. I recommend anyone with active kiddos check out a class!

Source: Google

AAA Enterprise

★ 5

Coach Katana is always helping me to do the moves right if I don't do it right 😃😁 And he is also nice. From Angelina A

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Andrei Antonets

★ 5

Mr. Catana is a very nice coach and I love his teaching. From Evan Antonets.

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Aimee Dusselier

★ 5

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KB The Kidd

★ 5

Very professional and awesome with the children! Highly Recommend!

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Drake Cornwell

★ 5

Mr. Catana is very patient with the kiddos. Very helpful and talks to them on their level and in ways they understand what he is wanting them to do. He is very respectful when he speaks to them as well. He has made a Wonderful difference to my son!

Source: Google

Emma Russell

★ 5

My 4 year old started going here 2 months ago, and she loves it. She’s been really going at her own pace and Mr. Catana has been very accommodating. It’s actually quite fun to watch also!! He is very engaging with all the kids individually while also teaching the whole group. He manages to keep the respect in the room while making it so fun for them. He’s very patient with kids who are new or even those having off days, while also standing firm on the boundaries of what they are there for! I could keep going on but just take this as your sign to enroll your child! You definitely will NOT regret it! 💯

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Aaron Kellyj

★ 5

Awesome!
Fun class, great exercise.

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Teequa Twiford

★ 5

Mr. Cantana is FANTASTIC! He is amazing with kids on keeping them focused, motivated and engaged. Our 9 yr old loves it as well as our newly 4 year old. Very reasonably priced and fantastic attention to students. We love the smaller student to teacher ratio. You will LOVE it!

Source: Google

M Orem

★ 5

This is an amazing instructor. Mr. Catana is fantastic with all students and is very helpful with students and works well with families.

Source: Google

Sean Orem

★ 5

Great instructor. Great with the students, fun atmosphere.

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Juston Hill

★ 5

Our experience with Vertical Taekwondo under Mr. Catana's guidance has been truly outstanding. What sets Vertical Taekwondo apart is the personalized attention each child receives. Mr. Catana ensures that every student, regardless of skill level, thrives under his guidance. Our son has flourished, not only in martial arts skills but also in self-confidence. Mr. Catana's commitment to high standards is evident in every class, skillfully combining rigorous training with a fun and engaging atmosphere. His patience with beginners, detailed instruction, and fostering of a supportive environment make Vertical Taekwondo a standout choice for our family. We are excited to witness our children's continued growth in skill and confidence under Mr. Catana's tutelage.

Source: Google

A S

★ 5

Sensei Katana has gone beyond expectations. My daughter struggled to find an activity she enjoyed enough to stick with. She is always excited to come to class and learn. Mr. Katana teaches skill, discipline, and confidence, while keeping things fun and motivating. I would recommend anyone thinking about martial arts to check out Vertical Taekwondo.

Source: Google

Kristin Schlosser

★ 5

We are absolutely thrilled that we found this gem of a place! Mr. Catana is amazing, has exemplary communication with parents and kids. He teaches the kids to a very high standard while making learning really fun and the kids are consistently smiling and enjoying themselves. He is so patient with beginners and works with everyone to build their individual skills. Each kid gets attention and instruction. Our son has learned so much and it’s really cool watching him gain confidence in himself and his abilities. Mr. Catana has a strong gift of teaching and we are excited to watch our kids grow in skill and confidence with his detailed instruction!

Source: Google

Henrietta Scriven

★ 5

After doing Taekwondo for a year I had to take a year off due to a knee surgery. When it was time to get started again, I decided to try a different studio and Mr. Catana my favorite instructor by far. I have been frustrated since restarting with the ground I lost in both fitness and technique in the year break I had but Mr. Catana has been an encouragement every step of the way. He knows when to push me for those last few kicks or when to make me take a break so I don’t hurt my knee. Overall a great place to be and I highly recommend.

Source: Google

Ryan

★ 5

Very great class for youth development with discipline and structure

Source: Google

Tasha Bender

★ 5

Mr. Cantana has great energy and does an awesome job keeping the kids engaged, having fun and learning. He meets every kid where they are and pushes them to excel in a fun way. We love the small classes and personal attention.

Source: Google

Angela Keller

★ 5

Mr. Catana is great with even his youngest students. My son has a lot of fun each class but Mr. Catana always manages to keep respect and following directions at the forefront. He also a very skilled and a great teacher. Highly recommend.

Source: Google

Park Sooyoung

★ 5

My kids love their karate classes here!

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Joey Law

★ 5

Mr. Catana is a phenomenal instructor, and is great with the students! Highly recommend!

Source: Google

Yuliya Antonets

★ 5

My kids love Vertical Taekwondo classes and Mr. Catana. The classes are fun and teach kids discipline and respect.

Source: Google

Kyle Sexton

★ 5

Great classes and instructor!

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Kathryn Carney

★ 5

My son has really enjoyed the class and learned so much. I like the well planned lessons and structured activities.

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Beth Turk

★ 5

Mr. Catana is an excellent instructor and is so patient with all of the kids. He does a great job of making sure that his students understand the tenets behind the practice, teaching them to practice respect and self-control in addition to the physical practice. He keeps things moving while still letting everyone have fun. My kids have really enjoyed the lessons and we plan to stick with Vertical Taekwondo!

Source: Google

Raquel Walker

★ 5

my husband and I decided to enroll our son for discipline and coach-ability, and we couldn’t be more happier with Mr. Cantana. he’s great with young kids, playful, patient and understanding. while at the same time being serious when needed. i would highly recommend to any parent that wants to start their kid out with any extracurricular activities. he’s done great with our 5 year old.

Source: Google

Kristin Glikbarg

★ 5

My son has been doing these classes for the last few months and just loves them! If you are thinking about trying taekwondo classes Vertical Taewkwondo is the place to start!

Source: Google

Nina Williams

★ 5

My sons have been taking classes for several months and have thoroughly enjoyed it. We have found them both to be better listeners at home as a result, which alone makes it worthwhile for me. The classes have also helped build their confidence. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

Michael Church

★ 5

My daughter has been attending classes for about six months now and loves it. She's always excited to go and to demonstrate her forms afterwards. We also see a real improvement in her self-control, especially with other groups/classes

Source: Google

RJ Alakayleh

★ 5

My son loves the classes! He has learned a lot and gained confidence in himself. Mr. Catana is a great teacher and very patient with his students.

Source: Google

Dakota Piscopo

★ 5

I've been taking my son to Vertical Taekwondo for several months now and it's been a fantastic experience. The instructor is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about teaching Taekwondo. The classes are well-structured and provide a challenging workout while also teaching self-defense skills. I highly recommend Vertical Taekwondo!

Source: Google

Paris Lee

★ 5

My kids love it here!!! Alex and the team do a phenomenal job!

Source: Google