MARTIAL ARTS FOR BODY AND SOUL
With our adult martial arts classes in Parkwood, you’re in for a treat. Our classes are designed with you and your needs in mind. Martial arts are not just a way to learn self-defense and discover ways to protect yourself from physical harm. They’re also an entry to destressing, helping you deal with whatever challenges life throws your way. A combination of physical and mental exertion, Action Karate is your safe space to completely unwind and re-energize as you’ll be equipped with all the tools you need to handle life’s stresses.
WHAT MAKES MARTIAL ARTS SO SPECIAL?
Learning martial arts goes beyond learning self-defense. It’s a journey of respect, connection, and personal growth.
1
Get Physically Fit
Joining Action Karate’s adult martial art classes is a thrilling and fun way to get physically fit and strong. You’ll work beyond your core to strengthen every muscle group, instilling complete confidence in both yourself and your capabilities.
2
Promotes Respect
Martial arts fosters a deep respect for oneself, one’s opponents, and the environment. It emphasizes humility, self-control, and the importance of treating others with dignity.
3
Build Stronger Relationships
The emphasis on respect and discipline in martial arts extends beyond the class setting, promoting stronger relationships with people from the martial arts community and those outside of it.
HOLISTIC APPROACH TO MENTAL FITNESS AND SELF-IMPROVEMENT
Martial arts is not only a physical workout -it’s a holistic activity and lifestyle that improves mental well-being. With Action Karate, you can foster and develop:
- Mental discipline
- Spiritual development
- Self-improvement
- Self-control
All this by following life-improving principles that will help you excel in every area of your life. Respect for yourself, for others (such as instructors and opponents), and for the environment as a whole is one of the most-important lessons martial arts teaches.
By following this principle our students build deeper relationships with themselves and the people in their life. Along this personal journey, you can find that starting adult martial arts classes:
- Promotes respect
- Builds stronger relationships
- Creates a sense of fulfillment
At Action Karate’s Parkwood location, you’ll enjoy a whole variety of benefits through a rewarding activity that’s both physically and mentally beneficial. What makes our adult martial art classes stand out is the combination of intense, whole-body workout and a fun activity that leaves you feeling good about yourself.
Action Karate Parkwood is the best! The personal attention from the instructors, mixed with the high intensity workouts keep you sharp physically and mentally! Highly recommended for adults and kids!
My son has enjoyed his time at Action Karate for several years, since he was 3. The instructors were great at engaging young kids and making learning karate fun. Now he’s older and it’s still fun but he is also learning a lot about his practice and commitment to physical & mental discipline. We also enjoy the extras such as the family events, kids night out, and camp days.
Love the growth my son has had in the few months he's been there. Everyone is very nice and always has a good atmosphere.
My name is Olivia Ilisco and I’m 16 years old. I started in the kids white through red classes and now I’ll be going for my Senior Blackbelt. I started my action Karate Journey a couple months after my sister and at first I wasn’t really interested in learning martial arts and how to defend myself but now I’m incredibly thankful for my parents forcing me to go to class every week. Through the years at action karate I’ve learned to be confident, to speak louder, defend myself, and to have grit and persevere even when I’m struggling. I’m so grateful to be part of the action karate family and I’ll forever hold on to the lessons I’ve learned to help me grow and face the challenges that life throws at me.
My name Zachary S. and I started doing karate at Action Karate in 2021, and I was so excited when I earned my white belt. It was right after Covid started so it was nice to train with other kids. Since then, I’ve worked hard through every belt, learning new katas and combos. The hardest part was learning how to do push ups but my instructors helped me and I got better and better. One of the cool parts was doing tournaments. I have earned bronze, silver and gold medals and a second place trophy! Finally, I am ready to test for my junior black belt, and it feels amazing because all my hard work is paying off. So happy I joined the Action Karate Parkwood family.
My daughter loves karate. It has helped her build confidence in herself.
The staff at Parkwood’s Action Karate are amazing. It’s really like a small family. Always pushing the kids to be the best they can be but making sure they have fun while doing so.
A long time ago, I was looking for something to enroll my 2 young sons in a program. They’re both on the autism spectrum. I was a little unsure if they would take to it. Many years later, They’re both junior blackbelts and are continuing up the promotion ladder. A big thank you to Mr Brandon and to Mr Litton. You guys make a difference. Thank you!
It has helped my 8-year-old son with his attitude. And self-control. he wants the workout and looks forward to class every week!
They have the most caring and patient instructions! Definitely a wonderful place!
I started my son Bryce at Action karate earlier this year and I have to say it’s one of the best decisions. The kindness and compassion they show my son and me . They truly care about the kids and the parents. My son’s confidence has grown and the smile on his face every time we walk in there. Bryce is autistic and is in private lessons he loves it! His instructors are phenomenal. It’s not just karate lesson. They’re a part of my support system with our family. I can’t say enough of how much that means to the both of us.Bryce has come a long way over the past year we both have and it’s great that action Karate is a part of that for us.I wish I could give more the 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Staff is excellent, classes are high energy and fun and help to instill self discipline in my 7 year old. Would recommend 1000xs over!!
I honestly do not know where to even begin lol. This will be a long review but one worth a read. My son Johnny was around 10 years old when we started looking for something we could enroll him in to learn more confidence and self-defense. With the world already being the way is it I wanted to make sure my son knew how to protect himself. My son was VERY shy, and we wanted to break him out of that shell because we knew underneath was a fun, outgoing kid! Right away we were drawn to Action Karate in Parkwood, the reviews itself were amazing so we scheduled a visit and figured we give it a shot. Upon entering the dojo, we were greeted with such amazing staff who were very welcoming. My son did a private class and absolutely loved it. We decided to enroll him and after ONE MONTH he was showing such a difference. He was more active, happier, and more outgoing and that "shy" little 10-year-old was breaking out of that shell, and we couldn't have been happier. We have been with the dojo for about 3 years now and my son is going for his senior black belt soon and the confidence this kid has is amazing, and I owe it all to action karate. From the very beginning, soon as we walked through those doors, we were treated like we were family. Action karate supports their members on and off the mat, always! I am a very shy person myself and since my son has been in the dojo for the last 3 years I have actually come out of my shell as well because they don't just interact with the kids/adults on the mat they make even the bystanders feel like a part of the dojo as well. They do such an amazing job here at Action Karate Parkwood that words couldn't say enough about how much gratitude I have for them. My youngest son Luke wanted to follow his older brothers' footsteps and join the dojo as well, he has GERD so sometimes if he gets to excited or a lot of running around can cause him to have a flare ups and I was very nervous with how active he would be, but the instructors here have been so accommodating and so helpful, they actually listen when your child speaks and don't just shut them down. My nephew who is also 7 saw how much both my boys enjoyed it here and he decided to join as well. So that is now 3 of my family members who are now enrolled in the dojo so that should tell you something lol. I will forever be grateful for the instructors here at this dojo. Every single one of them are amazing in their own way. Mr. Litton the head instructor is by far the BEST role model I could have ever asked for, for my son. My oldest (who is now 13) looks up to him so much and we couldn’t thank Mr. Litton enough for taking the time to teach Johnny and guide him through this very important time in his life. Action Karate will forever be our 2nd home, and we are so appreciative of everyone who works at this dojo and the parents who come in as well. Thank you for making us feel like family always💜
AKP has helped my daughter in so many ways and it has been amazing watching her confidence grow so much over the last couple of years in this program. I love that they consider input from home and school during evaluations for promotion as it gives the kids an incentive to apply the values taught to all areas of their lives.The instructors are great, and show genuine interest in seeing their students succeed.
I have to say that Action Karate Parkwood has been a dream come true for me and my son! The team there is amazing and very helpful. The sense of community that this branch brings is second to none. Highly recommend for families!
Action Karate is the best karate school.My grandson loves it there and they treat us like family.They listen to your concerns and help in every way possible.They also do different activities with the kids.Check them out Action Karate Parkwood.You won’t regret it.❤️💯
Action Karate Parkwood is a game-changer for our family! Unlike a typical gym, this incredible school offers so much more than just a workout. It’s a sanctuary that melts away stress and anxiety, boosting our mood, confidence, and courage in ways we never imagined.From the moment we walked in, we felt like part of a community family. The instructors are phenomenal—truly dedicated, supportive, and inspiring. They go beyond teaching karate; they instill valuable life skills that resonate both on and off the mat.Our 5-year-old daughter has thrived here. The positive environment and structured classes have significantly improved her focus, discipline, and confidence. She eagerly looks forward to each session, and we’ve seen her grow not just physically, but emotionally and socially as well.We are not alone in our experience. Several other families participate, and I'm sure I can speak for all of us when I say that Action Karate Parkwood has made a tremendous impact on our lives. They offer a variety of classes and class times for different age groups, which makes it incredibly convenient and flexible for busy families.Additionally, they host special events that keep the experience fresh and exciting for everyone involved. It’s not just a place to learn karate; it’s a school of personal growth and empowerment.Our whole family loves being a part of this vibrant, uplifting community. If you’re looking for more than just fitness, if you want to transform your life, this is the place to be! Highly recommend!
My son loves Action Karate Parkwood! He goes in, and has the time of his life. He is learning to focus, and listen, which is hard for him as he has special needs. He loves all of his teachers, and gets sad when he has to leave! He's currently taking their 3 weeks of summer camp. It's the first time at a real camp, and he's doing so wonderful! I'd recommend this place, not just for Karate, but for the family you make!
My son has only been attending a few months but LOVES IT! The instructors are knowledgable and talented. Their class schedule offers a variety of times. I highly recommend Action Karate for anyone, regardless of level or age.
Joining AKP has changed the trajectory of my children's lives. For my son he wasn't confident or focused and I didn't know how to help him. Since he's been here he has reached goals.not only in karate but the discipline he has gained has helped him in school as well. For my daughter who in a true introvert being a part of AKP she has blessed and become more outgoing and confident well. Me. Litton, Ms. Lisa and Ms Kat along with all the other students and families have become a part of our family. I love Action Karate Parkwood.
Such a great place very friendly environment.My son started about 7 months ago and absolutely loves it..
This place is the best! A school teacher had mentioned karate for my ADHD son for help with concentration, focus and self-control. The instructors here are amazing! They work so well with every child, helping them along the way. Everyone at Action Karate Parkwood have made us feel like family and that they really care for your child. My son is excited learning all the moves and the accomplishment of moving up with belts. It's not just karate, they have parents night out and do so many fun activities with the kids, a summer camp, and some weekend fun things. I cannot recommend this place enough! We plan on being here a very long time!
My son has had the best experience at Action Karate Parkwood. It has taught him strength, discipline and how to stay focused. All of the instructors are wonderful especially Mr. Litton and Ms. Kat. They really treat you like family. If you’re looking to get into martial arts, this is the place to go.
We have loved Action Karate at parkwood for almost a year now. Our son has found a place to be active and develop his leadership skills. I have such confidence in the instructors and their dedication. The whole family has gotten to try the classes!
My name is AL. I started at Action Karate Parkwood in 2020 as a ninja. This year I will be testing for my junior black belt. I enjoy the instructors, learning new things, building confidence and now helping other classes work towards their black belt and beyond.
My 2 boys love action karate! Mr Litton and his team do an amazing job teaching the kids. My oldest also does MMA there and he always looks forward to that class as well. My kids have learned a lot since being there and as a parent you can see the results
My name is Isabella Ilisco and I am a student at Action Karate Parkwood. I have been at Action Karate since I was 10 years old. I have earned my jr. Black belt and am currently working towards earning my first degree. When I first started karate, I was really shy. I kept to myself and was quiet. Ever since then, I’ve grown in to the person I am today. I am more confident and outgoing. I am talkative and less shy. I also am stronger and challenge myself more than ever to be the best version of myself. I love helping my instructors teach kids at Action Karate, and hope to become an instructor myself soon. I have learned how to persevere through tough times, defend myself in certain situations, and just life skills that are incredibly useful to me.
My name is Collin. I started my black belt journey in 2021 as a ninja doing outdoor classes because of Covid. I moved into white to red classes then to black belt leadership. I did two hit teams to move up in my belts. I also have done three tournaments on my journey. My instructors have been a lot of help. I can't wait to get my junior black belt and keep going.
Action karate Parkwood has been unbelievably beneficial to my son.He has been going to the Parkwood location for over 3 years.Since his first week we have seen consistant improvement in his attitude and determination.Mr Litton, Mrs Cat and the entire staff have treated us like family since day one!I highly recommend Action Karate Parkwood to anyone who is interested in watching there child grow and flourish in realy family environment.
My name is Stephen S, and I started my black belt journey in 2020. I was 4 years old. Training has been hard and I have grown so much. In the last 4 years I have moved from the ninja class to white to red, I joined black belt leadership, and also joined demo team. I have learned many new things and even completed my first HIT team this winter. My instructors are always there to help me along the way and we also have a lot of fun. I hope to become a great instructor one day so that I can help other kids like me with their black belt journey.
I registered my kids for karate for them to gain confidence, discipline and learn defensive tactics. I since then joined and enjoy doing this with my children as a family. The instructors are amazing and very good at what at they do. They have events and fun things to do for the families in addition to the karate curriculum. I would highly recommend! #AKP
From the moment I stepped into Action Karate Parkwood and met Ms. Kat & Mr. Litton, we knew we'd found something special. This isn't just a place for martial arts training; it's a community that empowers, educates, and embraces **every** individual's journey.For my daughter, it's been an incredible journey of growth and self-discovery. The instructors are not only skilled martial artists but also exceptional mentors. They've taught her the importance of discipline, respect, and perseverance, in private lessons that extend far beyond the dojo. Her confidence has soared, and it's a joy to see her suit up and practice what she has learned.As for myself, joining Action Karate Parkwood has been a game-changer. I initially joined to support my daughter, but it's turned into a personal transformation. The classes are dynamic, challenging, and incredibly rewarding. I've seen significant weight loss, and my endurance levels are the best they've ever been. More importantly, I've found a supportive community that motivates me to push my limits and strive for continuous improvement.Action Karate Parkwood isn't just about learning martial arts; it's about embarking on a journey of self-improvement and family bonding. We are grateful to be a part of this amazing community and look forward to many more years of learning and growing together.ASAH!!
The instructors are fantastic.I appreciate their dedication.Well organized, highly recommended.
Instructors are amazing, they are patient and caring. They build relationships with their students to help them feel comfortable and confident during lessons.
My family and I attend Action Karate Parkwood. We absolutely love it and the instructors are awesome. I highly recommend Action Karate!
Excellent family atmosphere, challenging training for people of all ages and most of all, fun! A+++
We've been a member of AKP for about 2 months now and it has been the greatest experience ever for my kids. They have shown tremendous improvement since we began. I have 2 kids in the ninja class and 1 in the adult class. They all have made me proud with their dedication, focus and skills. We love our AKP family ♥️
My son is very happy and enjoys Action Karate Parkwood. I am happy with the improvements he has made. I am very happy we got him involved in karate.
We love Action Karate we started with private lessons for my 4 year old who has autism and now have 3 students enrolled from our family because of how amazing they are. I have seen so much growth in him and I want to give a huge shout out to Mr. Brandon he has been sooo amazing with my little guy we appreciate him so much we love our “ninja shark” family as my 4 year old would say. I would recommend them to anyone very inclusive, they meet you where you are and help you grow!
My son won 3 free classes at his school and it was the best thing. The Instructors were excellent with my son who is EXTREMELY shy! He is now so excited to start Karate here he can barely contain himself. They are respectful, caring, professional and it shows that they are there because they care about children and people in general. Hands down best Karate dojo I've been to in a very long time. Just excellent!!
We joined action karate a little over two years ago and since then my son's confidence has grown so much.I have seen such a big difference in him thanks to all the instructors time and effort they have put in to teach him. We have also enjoyed the varies activities they have for the kids throughout the year. Highly recommend action karate!
Action karate has been a top notch experience from day one minute one. Instructors are all super helpful, inviting, informative and knowledgeable. All great with kids keeping them engaged and on task. We have only been a member a short time but definitely feel like my daughter as well as us as parents are now part of the action karate family hopefully for a long time to come.
We joined Action Karate just about a year ago. In that time our son has grown in confidence and self control. He has been disciplined in listening to the instructors, responds appropriately in situations at school and socially. We also have enjoyed the extra things like summer camp, board breaking, belt promotion events, and warrior nights. They answer questions any time we have them. All of the instructors (both adults and students) have been amazing, professional, and really get to know the students and families. Highly recommend Action Karate Parkwood !
THE BENEFITS OF MARTIAL ARTS FOR EVERY ADULT
Action Karate’s martial arts classes in Parkwood are perfect for every adult, irrespective of age, gender, or skill levels. We cater to everyone; from novices to those that are more advanced. And every class will leave you feeling empowered, stronger, fitter, and more confident. Just a few of the reasons to get started with Action Karate’s adult martial arts classes today include:
Self-Empowerment
- Increased self-discipline
- Improved focus and concentration
- Increased resilience
- Developed leadership skills
- Greater levels of self-confidence
Emotional Well-being
- Enhanced emotional regulation
- Socialization and communication
- Improved stress management
Healthier Lifestyle
- Improved sleep quality
- Reduced risk of chronic disease
- Enhanced flexibility
- Excellent weight management
THE POWER OF SELF-DEFENSE NOW AT YOUR DISPOSAL
Although some people may think that martial arts is an aggressive sport, it’s more about assessing potentially dangerous situations and learning how to avoid or de-escalate them before needing to physically defend yourself. Learning how to assess potentially dangerous situations can ultimately teach you the ability to defend yourself and your family from harm.
Regardless of age, gender, or physical abilities, you will work on developing a sense of control that bolsters your feelings of safety and confidence. All this means you can enjoy a greater sense of security in your daily life as you’ll know that your protection lies in your own capable hands.
OUR EXPERIENCED INSTRUCTORS ARE WHAT MAKES OUR CLASSES POSSIBLE
Action Karate’s Parkwood instructors are, first and foremost great individuals. They are committed to encouraging students and fostering a positive learning environment. Our instructors are all highly experienced and passionate about the martial arts. A huge part of their profession is to motivate and offer personal attention and guidance. Additionally, they all work on creating a safe and inclusive learning environment, in which every single student feels comfortable. Now what are you waiting for? Book your first class with us today! Our instructors can’t wait to welcome you to the word or martial arts.
Where can you find us
Our self-defense school is located in Northeast Philadelphia. Most of our students come from Parwood, Andalusia, Eddington, and Cornwell Heights but we welcome everyone in the Philadelphia region to come and join us. If you live away from Philadelphia County, then check our full list of locations throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
How to Find Us
mondayClosed
tuesday9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
wednesday9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
thursday9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
friday9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
saturday9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
sunday9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
171 Franklin Mills Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, 19154, USA