Independent Martial Arts School

"I grew up taking classes here (when it was the IKS) and even though I live out of state now, I still make a point to come to class when I'm in the area. The instructors, students, and everyone involved are awesome people and really focused on character development as well as quality martial arts instruction."

"I started with IMAS over twenty years ago, at age seven. Like many other students over the years, I could not imagine my childhood without the school and its community. I have lived outside the NH area for many years now, but any time life brings me within driving distance, I go back to the IMAS dojo. For me, it is going home. IMAS is dedicated to training and embracing students from all walks of life. I started young; at that time I wanted to learn karate because karate is cool, and my parents were grateful to have some energy wrung out of me every Saturday morning. In my teenage years, I developed close friendships with fellow students and reveled in the hard work of honing physical skill. I also learned to grow up, and benefited immensely from the direct mentorship of the school's leaders and immersion in the school's values. Now after moving away, I return whenever I can to train, to teach, and to pay forward all that IMAS has given me. My story in IMAS is common but not universal. Some students come to IMAS to enrich their understanding of traditional martial arts and its history. Some come for a solid workout. Some come for self-defense training. Some come to learn in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Some come as children, some as parents, some later in life. IMAS is a home for each and all."

"Outstanding! This school teaches highly practical self-defense skills by means of kindness and patience. Not to mention the other lessons my children have learned: confidence, courage, resilience, leadership, concern for others, quick thinking, teamwork, good sportsmanship, and more. Physically, there is nothing like the IKS program for developing strength, speed, and flexibility. Best martial arts school around--you will never regret sending your children for instruction here."

"The IKS is much more than a business, it's a genuine school. Students of the IKS not only know their techniques, they know what each move does. Along with kata and pinons, students will learn the history of how the martial arts developed. The headmasters are patient and kind and the older black belts serve as excellent role models for the younger students. Unlike other schools, you will never be asked to join a "Black Belt Club" to keep costs down. Costs are already reasonable. Other schools will test the students frequently and hold many tournaments a year. Don't be fooled - this gets very expensive as there are charges associated with testing and tournaments. Students are not encouraged to race through their belts at this school. The IKS holds one tournament a year and the excess funds are used for their scholarship program. My son studied karate with the IKS throughout his school years. He learned the value of working for a goal, working for the greater good (the IKS engages in a number of charitable events), self-respect, and confidence. Through public demonstrations and through teaching younger students, he learned poise in public speaking, a skill which served him well in college and while seeking employment. Most valuable of all were the life lessons he gained that shaped his character. He learned to serve others and to maintain focus and integrity. We feel very fortunate to have found this school."

"I started with this school at age 13, and as of the writing of this review am age 36. The school is like a second home... with good people willing to help out when you need it. It encourages school work, provides a means of participating in character building charity work, and teaches behaviors that I feel have helped me in my adult life and career. Of course, the school also teaches Kenpo and Enshudo... striking and grappling martial arts... for self defense. I confidently recommend the Independent Karate School."