Zen Martial Arts Center

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!

This review is for the Safe in the city series - it's a 12 week series self defense class for womenThey also occasionally offer 2 hour free class (check on eventbrite) if you want to get a flavor first.Sensei Oliver is a great instructor, going step by step, we practice with other classmates and then with him so you get a more realistic sense. Not only does sensei Oliver teach self defense, he also talks about what predators are looking for and how to present yourself so not to be a weak target.Studio - awesome space, good lighting, plenty of street parking nearbyI highly recommend the program.

If you're looking for a great martial arts dojo look no further. My daughter started here in tiny tigers group and her confidence and independence has been nurtured through the great teachings of Sensei Oliver. This man is a fantastic teacher and pours so much into his students. We are fortunate to have him lead our children and instill life skills in them that last

I can't say enough how wonderful this dojo is. We started a few years back when my son was 4 from the recommendation of a friend. We took a bit of a break due to scheduling, but I always knew when we started up again, we would only come back to Zen Martial Arts with Sensi Oliver. Sensi Oliver has an amazing way with these kids focusing on respect (for yourself and others), composure, how to handle bullying, how to make sure you're using your karate skills correctly (not on others), etc. He also encourages kids to do community outreach projects, helping them to think outside themselves. Along with the traditional aspects of this dojo, Sensi also really has fun with the kids. With the younger classes (my son is 6, so I don't know about the older classes) there are games played that the kids love. He really gains the respect and admiration of the kids and parents. If you're looking for something flashy, this isn't the dojo for you. But, if you want an experience that can be traced back to original traditions, this is what you want.

I can't recommend this karate school enough. The focus on the whole child is truly impressive. In addition to excellent karate instruction, there are many lessons to be learned each and every class that can help your kiddo with everything from respect to meditation and mindfulness. The variety from class to class and week to week is also an amazing way to keep my kiddo engaged and interested. Sensei Oliver is a wonderful human who has already had a positive impact on my almost 10 year old son. He is excited to go to each and every lesson.

I've been an martial arts practitioner for 30 years. After the dojo I attended closed I set out to find another Isshinryu school. The closest one the me is Zen martial arts. Yes it's a 60 mile drive to Sacramento from where I live in the Bay area. I do my best to make the trek on a regular basis. Mr.Oliver (sensei) has been extremely helpful. Although I practice the same style and have for years the way I learned the katas is somewhat different. All the folks have been very helpful and respectful. Although it's a drive I feel at home and at ease. Yes I will continue to train at Zen. Thanks for everything sensei OliverTim Arnold

Zen Martial Arts is a great place to be especially in these uncertain times. If you are looking for a safe and clean place to train, something to keep you occupied and bring balance back to your life come on down. During these Covid times all the guidelines are strictly followed. There are even Zoom classes that are being offered. My 3 kiddos have been with Sensai Oliver for years now. He is a great mentor for your little ones and for you (adults) as I have been training hear for a little over a year now. Please come check it out. You won't regret it!

My niece signed up recently and so far she is happy and so are we. Fun and a great way to teach discipline to kids.

Sensei Oliver taught a women's self defense class for my teenage daughter and her friends along with their Moms. It was awesome and he really knows this topic and gave us an amazing lecture about being safe and taught us techniques to execute in the event we are in dangerous assault situations. I recommend his martial arts center wholeheartedly and don't hesitate signing up for a class because you won't be disappointed. He is the best!!

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!