A Center for the Martial Arts Introduce
For residents of Illinois seeking a truly authentic and supportive sports activity location, A Center for the Martial Arts in Palos Hills stands out as a unique and exceptional choice. This martial arts school, proudly veteran-owned, offers more than just physical training; it provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere that fosters personal growth and confidence. As one former student notes, the environment is so positive that they "miss the warm and welcoming atmosphere" after having to move away. This sentiment is echoed by another student who describes it as "one of the best places in the area to study martial arts and self-defense." The school's founder, Garza Shihan, is frequently praised for his patient and dedicated teaching style, particularly with children. His ability to connect with students and create a safe and disciplined space is a cornerstone of the academy's reputation. The focus here is on genuine self-improvement, making it an ideal destination for those who want to find their own strength, both physical and mental. A Center for the Martial Arts offers an opportunity to join a community that truly cares about the well-being and success of its members, from the youngest students to experienced adults.
A significant highlight of this center is its commitment to creating a safe space, particularly for female students. A review from a former student, who feels "better living alone after training with him," emphasizes this point. This sense of security and empowerment is a testament to the quality of the self-defense training and the respect-based environment cultivated by Garza Shihan. The school's specialization in disciplines like Aikido and Danzan Ryu Ju Jitsu, which are known for their practical self-defense applications, further reinforces its value. The training is described as a "good money and a good investment for children or adults," which speaks to the tangible and long-lasting benefits that students gain. The school’s connection to respected styles, such as following the Toyoda Shihan style for Aikido, indicates a deep-rooted commitment to traditional and high-quality instruction. The community-oriented approach, where students have been training for years, demonstrates the loyalty and satisfaction that the center inspires. For anyone in the Palos Hills area who is looking for a place to train, the message is clear: "If you pass by, you will miss a good chance to find yourself."
Location and Accessibility
A Center for the Martial Arts is conveniently located at 10717 S Roberts Rd, Palos Hills, IL 60465, USA. This accessible location serves the community of Palos Hills and the surrounding Illinois suburbs, making it a viable option for many local residents. The center's dedication to accessibility is a key feature, as it offers a wheelchair-accessible entrance, a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, a wheelchair-accessible restroom, and even wheelchair-accessible seating. These amenities ensure that the facility is welcoming and inclusive to a diverse range of individuals, making it easy for anyone to visit and participate in the classes. Furthermore, the business accepts credit cards, providing a convenient and modern payment option for its students. The physical space is designed to be comfortable and safe, with a restroom available for use. This combination of a central location and thoughtful accessibility features makes A Center for the Martial Arts a practical and appealing choice for families and individuals in the region who are looking for a reliable and inclusive sports activity location.
Services Offered
A Center for the Martial Arts offers a range of training programs that focus on traditional martial arts with an emphasis on self-defense and personal development. The curriculum is tailored to different age groups and skill levels. Key services include:
- Ju Jitsu: The school offers training in Danzan Ryu Ju Jitsu, a comprehensive system of unarmed self-defense that incorporates throwing, joint-locking, and striking techniques.
- Aikido: The center specializes in Aikido, a Japanese martial art focusing on throwing and joint locks to neutralize an opponent's aggression. The school follows the style of Toyoda Shihan, a respected lineage within the martial art.
- Karate Program: The school provides a Karate program and specific classes for students interested in this discipline.
- Classes for Children: The center has dedicated training programs for children, fostering discipline, respect, and confidence from a young age.
- Training in Multiple Disciplines: The school's curriculum combines various disciplines, offering a well-rounded and versatile training experience that prepares students for a variety of real-world situations.
- Training for All Ages: The school offers programs and classes suitable for children, teens, and adults, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for a diverse student body.
Features and Highlights
Several key features distinguish A Center for the Martial Arts, making it a highly regarded institution in the Illinois martial arts community. These highlights are a testament to its quality and positive impact on students:
- Veteran-Owned: The school is a veteran-owned business, which often speaks to a culture of discipline, respect, and professionalism. This background provides a strong foundation for the training offered.
- Safe and Welcoming Environment: The reviews consistently praise the warm and safe atmosphere. This is a crucial highlight, as it directly addresses a concern many people have when choosing a martial arts school, especially for women and children. The presence of many long-term female students further validates this point.
- Expert and Dedicated Instructors: The head instructor, Garza Shihan, is highly respected and lauded for his patience and ability to connect with students. His long history of training and his adherence to a specific and respected lineage of Aikido and Ju Jitsu give students confidence in the quality of their instruction.
- Focus on Practical Self-Defense: The school's curriculum is built on disciplines like Danzan Ryu Ju Jitsu and Aikido, which are known for their real-world self-defense applications. Students learn skills that can provide them with a genuine sense of safety and empowerment.
- Strong Community: The long-standing presence of students at the school indicates a powerful and supportive community. It is a place where people find a second home and a network of peers who share a common interest in personal growth.
- Comprehensive Accessibility: The full suite of accessibility features, from the entrance to the seating and restrooms, demonstrates a strong commitment to serving all members of the community without reservation.
Contact Information
For more information or to inquire about class schedules, A Center for the Martial Arts can be reached at the following contact points:
- Address: 10717 S Roberts Rd, Palos Hills, IL 60465, USA
- Phone: (708) 448-2454
- Mobile Phone: +1 708-448-2454
What is Worth Choosing
For individuals in the Illinois region, choosing A Center for the Martial Arts is a decision to invest in a place that is deeply committed to its students' well-being and personal development. The veteran-owned status and the genuine, heartfelt testimonials from long-term students speak volumes about the quality of the instruction and the strength of the community. This is a martial arts school that offers more than just a training program; it provides a transformative experience that builds confidence, discipline, and a sense of belonging. The specific focus on practical self-defense, particularly with the inclusion of women in its long-term student base, makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to feel safer and more empowered in their daily life. The highly accessible facility and its convenient location in Palos Hills further enhance its appeal. Ultimately, A Center for the Martial Arts is a place where you are not just a student; you are part of a family. Its value goes beyond the monetary cost, as it is an investment in self-improvement and a chance to find a positive and lasting community. It is, as one reviewer put it, "a good chance to find yourself."
A Center for the Martial Arts Services
Martial Arts School
- Classes For Children
- Danzan Ryu Ju Jitsu
- Ju Jitsu
- Karate Class
- Karate Program
- Training In
- Training Programs
A Center for the Martial Arts Details
From the business
- Identifies as veteran-owned
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Amenities
- Restroom
Payments
- Credit cards
A Center for the Martial Arts Photos










A Center for the Martial Arts Location
A Center for the Martial Arts
10717 S Roberts Rd, Palos Hills, IL 60465, USA
A Center for the Martial Arts Reviews
aikido
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1I trained with Garza Shihan for years and had to move away. I miss the warm and welcoming atmosphere. He’s so good with kids and the space is safe for women as you can tell by his many female students who have been around for years. I feel better living alone after training with him.
June 08 · Rachel KubackiOne of the best places in the area to study martial arts and self-defense. Especially suited to studying Aikido with Sensei Bob Garza and following Toyoda Shihan style. Good money and a good investment for children or adults! If you pass by, you will miss a good chance to find yourself.
September 14 · Tsvetomir DoskovWhere do I start…Sensei Bob Garza creates an inviting atmosphere for the kids during class - which keeps their attention while learning important skills in self defense, focus, and discipline. The instructors make it fun to learn the Japanese art of Aikido 🥋 The age range from 4 years to teenagers, and of course, the adult classes.I would absolutely recommend this dojo if you want your kids to learn about discipline, focus, and confidence to become well rounded young adults in the community.
October 30 · Sergio Aguirre JrMy wife heard about this place from a friend. It came very highly recommended so we immediately took our children to sign up. The first time we went, they let my kids join in the class without worrying about payment or anything. This was nice because we wanted to make sure our kids liked the place and felt comfortable. The environment and atmosphere was very friendly, positive and welcoming. Our kids loved it immediately! We registered our kids on the same day and have been going for a couple of weeks now. This school is very highly recommended and they have classes for all ages and at different days and times throughout the week.
September 19 · A HSince 2015 til now, i have very good experience and improved martial art skill with all my instructors ! They’re very nicely and patient with me given a lot of hard work to correct my problem. All sensei very deep and professional! This place it a Top 10 Dojo Illinois of chicago! 👍
September 17 · ALGTP COM
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