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December 2023 by Jess C
Honest review after almost a year at Final Strike:The positive:•Good family atmosphere. Kids can feel welcome and not intimidated. There is a wide range of ages so no matter your kids age they’ll have a partner their “size/age”•The class schedule is great, and provides for great flexibility. They have two class a day Monday-Thursday and you can choose any day to attend.•Mr. Cunningham and the student black belt leaders are great, they show awesome dedication and care for the students.The bad:•There is a clear intent on them making as much money from people as possible.Belt promotions are $75 a pop! Even tho they don’t give you a certificate and color belt promotions are based on attendance and not the traditional testing.In order to compete at tournaments and state/national championship your child must be part or “Gold Quest” which runs $3000 a year plus an “initial investment” of $250-$500If you want your kid to get extra attention or improve at a faster pace you can be part of the “Black belt club” which runs an extra $50 (or so) a month plus an initial investment fee.Being part of the black belt club also means you’ll need to purchase the “weapon of the cycle” which guess what? Cost extra money!Pair of nunchucks was $60 even tho online they go for half the price.Overall the studio is good and kids do seem to enjoy themselves, but their business practices and ridiculous pricing are a big letdown.
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December 2023 by Jonathan Castro
We truly love Final Strike, our son absolutely loves the classes and it’s thriving. Mr. Cunningham is an excellent instructor and the black belt leaders are really awesome with the kids; specially Mr. Durbin, Ms. Urquiza & Ms. Rentar they are remarkably patient with the little ones and a will be a great teachers one day.The classes are great no matter the age or fitness level and teach kids a lot more than just martial arts, they work on their discipline, listening skills and confidence.The negative aspect is the cost, the basic program is in line with the average around the area, but the other programs available are pretty pricey specially when you take into account the initial investment you are required to pay up front.
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December 2023 by J M
Final Strike is a fun place for the kids to learn and have an activity outside school. Mr. Cunningham and the black belt leaders (Mr. Durbin, Ms. Rentar, Mr. Rentar and the Urquiza sisters) show genuine care for the kids and do a good job at breaking things down and helping them learn.As far as the owners/masters there isn't much that I can say. They have taught family class less than 10 times in the almost year we've been here. I've heard Master Robles is more involved with the "advance" class.So why only 2 stars?Well, the way they run their business and the cost of the whole thing is all kind of crazy.From the moment you go for initial appointment of the "2 week trial" it feels like you are at a timeshare presentation; and if you decided to buy in and become a member they are just constantly trying to get you to pend more money and "upgrade".It starts with belt promotions, which are based on attendance (instead of testing), every new belt carries a $75 charge.Then you will get an invitation to join the "black belt club" which they make it sound like its based on skill, and discipline but, the reality of it is that anyone that is willing to pay the extra $50 a month can be part of it.They have programs that they will "invite" you to, and they'll offer all kinds of coupons and specials but they are only available for "limited time, so you need to take advantage of it right now" (literally jut like a timeshare presentation lol)Some of the programs are Gold Quest ($2500 a year) and leadership (approx. $1800 a year). Every new program has an "initial investment" (down payment) which is basically a way for them to secure money up front.Anyways, I can go on and on... it is really disappointing because the family class instructors are really good and kids really have fun but due to the pricing and business practices we will be leaving when our contract ends.
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December 2023 by Lindsey Denbo
ProsFriendly, warm, and invitingCunningham is a wonderful teacher who knows how to talk to the littles in a way that they understand.Parent Night OutsFun kid partiesConsIt’s not cheapLook, after 2.5 years with them, there’s going to be hiccups. But we’re still with them because, regardless of those hiccups (and the price), it’s worth it.
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November 2023 by Lindsey A.
ProsFriendly, warm, and invitingCunningham is a wonderful teacher who knows how to talk to the littles in a way that they understand. Parent Night OutsFun kid partiesConsIt's not cheap Look, after 2.5 years with them, there's going to be hiccups. But we're still with them because, regardless of those hiccups (and the price), it's worth it.
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October 2023 by Michael Clayton
I don't even know where to start! My son was starting to get in to the wrong groups of "friends" at age 9. I had to act fast on where he would take his direction in disciple, respect and most of all integrity. I knew it was a gamble, growing up all my well behaved friends were in martial arts, so why not?!First introduction day Master Bates (I can't say enough good things about him) took us a small padded studio room with many other families as well. His positive attitude and articulate demeanor was a breath of fresh air. It was as though he was in my head and speaking to me in exactly what I was looking for by joining martial arts with my kids.This is not some fluff review, my son literally did a 180 in terms of chores, respect for his parents (me!) , friendships, and school work.He has a twin sister who has always done well who comes home from school with stories such as "Jonathan keeps raising his hand in class... and he's getting the answers right!". This alone is INCREDIBLE! FSMA teaches this skill DAILY, students are always looked to for answers and called upon.His twin sister also joined him and is having a great time learning and challenging her self, she has a strong competitive background in gymnastic style sports and has effortlessly enjoyed every class. Who wouldn't want to learn how to use Nunchucks safely? You kidding me?!The staff... Good lord, Mr. Cunningham is the main instructor for the main family classes. He is a very experienced high ranked blank belt with a heart the size of a dinosaur. Fluid, articulate instructions and will help you out if needed or with any questions. He makes every day comfortable for all, sets class up for everyone to succeed and have a great time learning at the same time.There are high ranked classes as well where Master Robles,Master Bates, Mrs. Bates and Mr. Cunningham teach. The experience and expertise between those 4 are monumental. We haven't reached the level of attending those classes as of yet, however we look forward to the day that we earn that ability.The blackbelts... each class is loaded with high ranked blackbelts dedicated to assisting in class. No matter how big the class gets, tailored help is there for you. They are the nicest people who genuinely want to see you succeed and enjoy what you're doing. Kid's belt dropped? No problem, one of them will happily help the young lad or lady get that belt tied on properly. Form not quite correct? No problem, one of the blackbelts will be by and help you correct your form. I have to stop here on this one as I could write a book about them.Now.. ME! I'm a 42 year old Father/husband of 3 truly awesome kids. I work as a Director of IT. I joined this program at first just to join my kids as I thought that they would enjoy it more if pops was there too. You'd think that this was just for the kids, it's not. I've improved in many aspects of my life through FSMA. My focus is higher than it ever has been, my confidence has made a significant jump as well. There are leadership programs that my children are in, as a parent I go to sit, listen, and wait for the class to end to take them home. The problem but really it's a great thing is that I end up listening and thinking about my own leadership at work, their talking points are for everyone!I have to cut myself off here, there is so much more I can type and so much more that they have to offer.At the very least, trust me and go for the 2 weeks to try it out. It's worth it, it's priceless, it's awesome!
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September 2023 by Michael C.
I don't even know where to start! My son was starting to get in to the wrong groups of "friends" at age 9. I had to act fast on where he would take his direction in disciple, respect and most of all integrity. I knew it was a gamble, growing up all my well behaved friends were in martial arts, so why not?!First introduction day Master Bates (I can't say enough good things about him) took us a small padded studio room with many other families as well. His positive attitude and articulate demeanor was a breath of fresh air. It was as though he was in my head and speaking to me in exactly what I was looking for by joining martial arts with my kids. This is not some fluff review, my son literally did a 180 in terms of chores, respect for his parents (me!) , friendships, and school work. He has a twin sister who has always done well who comes home from school with stories such as "Jonathan keeps raising his hand in class... and he's getting the answers right!". This alone is INCREDIBLE! FSMA teaches this skill DAILY, students are always looked to for answers and called upon. His twin sister also joined him and is having a great time learning and challenging her self, she has a strong competitive background in gymnastic style sports and has effortlessly enjoyed every class. Who wouldn't want to learn how to use Nunchucks safely? You kidding me?!The staff... Good lord, Mr. Cunningham is the main instructor for the main family classes. He is a very experienced high ranked blank belt with a heart the size of a dinosaur. Fluid, articulate instructions and will help you out if needed or with any questions. He makes every day comfortable for all, sets class up for everyone to succeed and have a great time learning at the same time. There are high ranked classes as well where Master Robles,Master Bates, Mrs. Bates and Mr. Cunningham teach. The experience and expertise between those 4 are monumental. We haven't reached the level of attending those classes as of yet, however we look forward to the day that we earn that ability. The blackbelts... each class is loaded with high ranked blackbelts dedicated to assisting in class. No matter how big the class gets, tailored help is there for you. They are the nicest people who genuinely want to see you succeed and enjoy what you're doing. Kid's belt dropped? No problem, one of them will happily help the young lad or lady get that belt tied on properly. Form not quite correct? No problem, one of the blackbelts will be by and help you correct your form. I have to stop here on this one as I could write a book about them.Now.. ME! I'm a 42 year old Father/husband of 3 truly awesome kids. I work as a Director of IT. I joined this program at first just to join my kids as I thought that they would enjoy it more if pops was there too. You'd think that this was just for the kids, it's not. I've improved in many aspects of my life through FSMA. My focus is higher than it ever has been, my confidence has made a significant jump as well. There are leadership programs that my children are in, as a parent I go to sit, listen, and wait for the class to end to take them home. The problem but really it's a great thing is that I end up listening and thinking about my own leadership at work, their talking points are for everyone! I have to cut myself off here, there is so much more I can type and so much more that they have to offer. At the very least, trust me and go for the 2 weeks to try it out. It's worth it, it's priceless, it's awesome!
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July 2023 by evelyn sanchez
My 13 year old son is always so excited to attend. We absolutely love Mr. Cunningham and Master Bates. The philosophy is amazing and the teaching even more so. We are beyond happy to be part of the Final Strike Family.
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July 2023 by Evelyn S.
I've been searching for a physical activity for my 13 year old son for sometime now. He has never been in an athletic role or team before, and I knew martial arts would be a great choice. After trying out other studios, we did a trial at Final Strike, and we loved it! We have been going for about 2 months now, and my son has gained so much confidence in himself. The staff is amazing. Mr. Cunningham and Master Bates really care about their students and the families. All the students, no matter the age, are respectful and so nice! I have so much gratitude for helping my son feel like his part of a group and building his confidence. We look forward to being part of the Final Strike family for a very long time.
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July 2023 by Justin S.
I can not speak to the martial arts portion of this organization but I can say their summer camp is the BIZZZZZZZZZ per my son. He lovvvveeees it and gets upset when he can't attend even if we're taking him on an action packed adventure haha. Kudos to Christina and her awesome staff, all great kids (teenagers) and love seeing how much they care for our littles. Kudos! This will be our third summer with the FSMA Summer camp crew and they truly are the best Summer Camp in the area like the camp shirt says! Highly recommended
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May 2023 by Antonia V.
Do not fall for the $20 free trial...yes you get a free uniform and and intro session, however, the prices are outrageous...the sign up fee is almost $500 and the monthly membership is almost $800. I brought my daughters in for the intro session and "Shun," was very nice to my girls. However, I also had my 2-year-old with me. During their intro session, I tried my best to keep my toddler away, but there is only so much I can do as she wants to do everything her sisters are doing.Shun's comment was "this will work for today..." meaning that my toddler would probably otherwise be considered a disruption to the classes. I thought this was supposed to be a family friendly environment...The lady who accompanied him in the intro session was very kind, however, when I expressed to her that there is no way we could ever afford the monetary equivalent of a housing or a car payment to enroll my kids in martial arts, she said: "you never know, miracles can happen.." WTF?!!!If you have $$$ to spare in this economy go right on ahead. However if you are a hard working blue collar family, stay away from this place.This did nothing but teach my kids about disappointment, as they really wanted to continue taking classes, however, I had to explain to my 6 and 5 year old that we could not afford their outrageous pricing.
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March 2023 by Lyndsey Rodriguez
Final Strike is an amazing place. Not only does my daughter enjoy her taekwondo training there, but they threw the best birthday party for her ever!! We did a super hero party, and the kids were taught their taekwondo skills to fight crime like a hero. Mr. Cunningham and Miss Maya were amazing with all the kids. They handled everything accordingly, and had a blast with the kids. My daughter said it was the best day ever! She can't wait to go back for her classes.
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March 2023 by Maria Arredondo
Very welcoming and high-energy environment which is amazing for Martial Arts training. The instructors are awesome with wonderful older students whom set a great example of great work ethic, strength, positivity, and friendliness. A family we’re happy to be apart of.
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March 2023 by Maria S.
My daughter has been training with Final Strike for just over a year now. The instructors and older students whom help facilitate the classes are just awesome. The older students who serve as the Storm Team are really what solidified our choice for her to train here. They are so well mannered, respectful, positive, and amazing with the kids. I remember the first day walking into the studio and each of the older kids said hello and gave her a high five. They do that every single time we're here and as a parent I just love the great example they're setting and the complete welcoming atmosphere that exists at Final Strike. Definitely a family we're happy to be apart of.
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March 2023 by Lyndsey R.
Final Strike is an amazing place. Not only does my daughter enjoy her taekwondo training there, but they threw the best birthday party for her ever!! We did a super hero party, and the kids were taught their taekwondo skills to fight crime like a hero. Mr. Cunningham and Miss Maya were amazing with all the kids. They handled everything accordingly, and had a blast with the kids. My daughter said it was the best day ever! She can't wait to go back for her classes.
