A Few Words
I’m Abel Ucelo, Head Instructor here at Ucelo Martial Arts.
As a martial arts instructor with extensive experience training kids, there is nothing better than seeing them grow firsthand.
But more important than the martial arts skills they learn… is the personal skills they develop and carry for life.
Because martial arts is so much more than just kicking and punching, and getting the next colorful belt.
It’s about developing confidence, discipline, character, focus and respect.
With every class we teach, your kids are growing in mind, body and character.
That’s because martial arts provides instant positive feedback. Through learning to focus on the core moves, they develop discipline and respect. They can instantly see and feel a difference, making them destined to build confidence, self-awareness and self-respect.
And of course it’s a ton of FUN!
That’s why I love teaching martial arts to kids in this community, and why I know your kids are going to LOVE training.
So please have a look below to find out exactly how your kids can benefit from our fun martial arts classes.
Thanks!
Does your young child
They have trouble focusing and don’t look at you when you speak to them.
They get angry easily and small things may cause them to lose control.
They lack the discipline to follow through on tasks without being reminded.
Parenting young children is a real challenge.
You must balance their natural inquisitiveness and high energy with trying to teach them the basic skills they need for school and life.
Discipline, sharing, and self-control are all things they need to learn to be successful.
The ideal setting is one that’s got some structure but works with kids at their current developmental level. If they have fun while they’re learning, they’ll be more likely to retain those lessons and learn the skills they need.
Results and growth with every class!
Studying martial arts is ideal for young children. It provides them with an outlet for their energy. But, it also teaches them about respect, discipline, and other core values that will go with them beyond the dojo. Junior martial arts classes teach kids to control their movements and behavior, and they’ll learn social skills and interaction at the same time.
Studying Martial Arts Builds Physical Coordination and Control
Young children who learn martial arts find out quickly that each movement must be intentional. They learn to control their movements to the best of their ability.
They also practice hand-eye coordination and learn about their bodies. That means they’ll be less likely to be unintentionally destructive.
Young Martial Arts Students Learn How to Focus
Getting young kids to pay attention can feel like an impossible task. The structure of our martial arts classes shows kids the importance of focus and teaches them by having them apply it to easily-achievable tasks.
The focus they learn in the dojo is something they’ll take home – and into the classroom. That’s why kids who study martial arts tend to be good students, too.
Martial Arts Helps Kids Learn to Deal with Frustration
Martial arts instruction requires students to pursue goals to earn new belts. Young kids can easily become frustrated when they don’t get what they want, but studying martial arts helps them learn the power of persistence.
The physical activity in our classes also helps kids manage stress and anxiety by allowing them to burn it off in a safe and constructive way.
Kids Who Study Martial Arts Learn Good Sportsmanship
Losing is not anybody’s idea of fun, but we all need to learn how to accept a defeat gracefully and move on. We teach students that losing is part of life – and it’s what you do after you lose that tells people who you are.
Even though martial arts is an individual sport, we cultivate an environment of supportive teamwork where students root for one another.
Our 5 year old kiddo has been training at ucelo for about two months, and...wow. I love this studio and more importantly the community they create. First off, the kids go through legit work outs...no joke...the fitness element is real. But more importantly Master Abel is so impressive with the kids. He is structured, appropriately assertive, tender, light hearted, and emphasizes the values and decorum that is missing in so much of modern life. He cultivates leadership among his students in a way that provides extremely constructive role modeling for everyone observing. We love how the people behave in and around this business and are hopeful that these experiences will positively influence our little one and help her become her best self. If you are considering ucelo martial arts just go watch one class...you will see it too 💙
We love Ucelo Martial Arts! We enrolled our daughter when she turned 5 in hopes of improving some behavioral issues we were struggling with. Her behavior improved drastically!!!! and we couldn't be prouder of her. Master Abel and Sarahi have left a lasting impression on our daughter, she loves and admires them, and I couldn't be more grateful for them.
My son started last month at 6 years old and right away he was learning and challenging himself to continuously do better and better. He LOVES UMA. He is bummed on our off days he wants to do karate every day! His focus, strength, and respect has improved tremendously even in this short about of time. Master Ucelo does a wonderful job explaining the respect is to be carried into home as well as in class. My son use to have difficulties listening and obeying the first time and we honestly do not struggle with that anymore. The instructors are wonderful and patient. I would recommend Ucelo MA to everyone.
My son absolutely loves it here and he looks forward to going to class . The energy and atmosphere is very warm and welcoming , you can feel it as soon as you walk in . I've seen such positive changes in my son and it's only been about a month . My husband and I truly feel that this was definitely one of our better decisions , I highly recommend this place . I personally love the teachings of respect and teamwork , and the inclusiveness .
My daughter Autumn and I absolutely love UCELO Martial Arts! Autumn has so much admiration towards Sarahi and Master Abel. The genuine care the instructors have with each and every one of their students- as a parent I could not ask for more. I have noticed Autumn’s attitude, behavior and autonomy improve in just the 6 months we have been there. I can’t wait to see where Martial Arts takes Autumn not only on the mat but in life. We are grateful for you both and thank you for all you do!
This school is amazing with amazing people. At UMA you are accepted as family. Your children are in wonderful hands. They do not disappoint.
The best karate instructors in town! My daughter has been at UMA for almost 5 years and my son recently joined, both my kids enjoy the class very much! UMA has helped both kids learn about self defense, self confidence and respect. The instructors are experienced and patient with the kids, always pushing them to do better and be the best they can be. UMA has become family to us, we could not be more thankful for finding such wonderful karate school for our children!
I'm very impressed with the Ucelo's family leadership and professionalism. Both of my daughters attend class for almost 1 year, my husband and I are extremely pleased and happy to be a part of the UMA Team! We love the family oriented environment.
The best karate school there is! Everyone is so friendly and master Abel is the best! Bring you kids here you won't regret it!!
La mejor escuela con el mejor instructor Abel! Todos son amables y sin fácil de enseñar! Traigan a sus hijos aquí es la mejor escuela!
Best martial arts school in Glendale. Both Sarahi and Master Abel treat everyone as family. My kids love going to class and strive to do their best both at home and martial arts class.
I’m so happy we found UMA my oldest son who is 5 yrs old (started at 4) was having a super hard time focusing and behaving well in school and now thanks to a wonderful supportive team at UMA he is reading and right on track for kindergarten in the fall! I myself have recently joined kickboxing and I feel like they are so supportive and patient with me, I feel so much better about myself and have so much more energy! My youngest son will be joining the karate team in May when he turns four and we are so excited! Thank you team UMA!!!!!
I highly recommend Ucelo Martial Arts! The culture they have created, how much fun the kids have and how the families are involved, make this the best Martial arts school in the Valley!
You have totally changed my great granddaughters life. Thank you UMA.
Love this school. Everyone is very nice, patient, and excellent at teaching the moves and understand the meaning of it. Everyone is treated equal. Feels like we are all a big family. I would definitely recommend this school. 5 Stars for sure.
This place is great, both of my kids love coming every week, they have learned discipline, confidence, and the meaning of community. Master Abel has been a positive figure in their lives, we plan on being a part of UMA family for a long time.
My daughter loves Ucelo Martial Arts. Her confidence, focus and physical strength have greatly increased. Not only does she learn martial art skills, Master Abel teaches respect, integrity and responsibility. If your child can only do one activity, chose this. You will not be disappointed.
This is hands down the best karate school. My daughter has gained so much from practicing martial arts with Master Abel and Miss Sarah. They are both amazingly encouraging and they genuinely care about their students. UMA really is a big family. It's a great place with wonderful people!
Absolutely, hands down, the best martial arts place in Phoenix! Master Abel and Sarahi are so welcoming and treat everyone like family! We couldn't be any happier with finding their facility and being apart of their family! Highly recommend!! You won't be disappointed!
Our daughter enjoys everything she has learned from Master Abel and Sarahi. We appreciate the holistic approach that is provided to the students. They learn martial arts techniques as well as the importance of life lessons in loyalty, integrity, perseverance, courtesy, and self control. We truly feel we are among family!
Amazing family, amazing school! From the Grand master to all his kids, we love Ucelo Martial Arts!!!! True passion for what they do, so glad we returned to Phoenix and my son decided to continue his journey with martial arts.
I would highly recommend this school. I have know this family for many years! They are amazing!!!! The kids learn the art of martial arts plus key characteristics to become better individuals.
We have had our two girls (ages 5 & 8) at Ucelo Martial Arts since July of 2019. I have seen the girls grow immensely in confidence, strength, and discipline. This is a family run business and it is clear that they love what they do in how they treat the students. My entire family would recommend Ucelo Martial Arts to anyone!
Highly recommend this martial arts company to all ages! Some times martial arts classes can be intimidating but the UMA family are very welcoming, encourages individuals to never give up and have fun while striving to do their best. Being apart of the Little Tigers, my son enjoys his class and new friends as well as remembers each lesson his Master teaches; which we continue to implement at home. Some of the classes the parents participate with their children making it more interactive and memorable. So happy to have such a great martial arts company in the Glendale community. Awesome job Master Abel & Sarah!
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FAQs
Yes, it can. We help children learn the importance of emotional control and respect for others. These are lessons that will help them in the classroom, too.
Yes. Even though studying martial arts is an individual pursuit, we teach kids to learn in a collaborative environment with an emphasis on sharing, cooperation, and teamwork.
Yes. Part of martial arts training is teaching kids to be mindful of themselves and their surroundings. They must focus to succeed in class, and once they learn to do it, they’ll be able to do the same thing at school.
Martial arts instruction focuses on hand-eye coordination, control, and strength. As kids learn basic moves and then advance, they learn how to control their bodies and movements.
Yes. It’s common for students to require more than one attempt to earn a new belt. We teach them that trying is the most important thing – and that persistence pays off.
Respect is at the core of everything we do in the dojo. Kids who study martial arts must respect their instructors and fellow students, and we find that they learn to respect parents, teachers, caregivers, and siblings at the same time.
More Benefits
Kids learn how to listen respectfully to others without interruptions.
Our students learn the value of discipline as they pursue clearly-defined goals.
Martial arts instruction teaches kids how to accept defeat and learn from their mistakes.
Martial arts helps kids build core strength, balance, and physical coordination.