Brian Hobson Karate Studio image

Brian Hobson Karate Studio

Physical fitness program Martial arts school Sports school Karate school

One of the Top rateds in Hampton


Address

1921 N Armistead Ave, Hampton, VA 23666

Website

www.brianhobsonkarate.com

Contact

(757) 825-2467

Rating on Google Maps

5.00 (158 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Monday: 11 AM to 12 PM, 4 to 9 PM
  • Tuesday: 5 to 8 PM
  • Wednesday: 11 AM to 12 PM, 4 to 9 PM
  • Thursday: 5 to 8 PM
  • Friday: 4 to 7 PM
  • Saturday: 10 AM to 1 PM
  • Sunday: Closed

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: karate (28) Brian (26) Hobson (25) Karate (19) students (19) dojo (18) child (15) focus (15) instructors (15) class (14)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Jamie h. 7 years ago on Google
    If you are looking for a positive outlet for your child, a way to counter balance any negatives in your child's life---movies...video games...etc...or just because your child wants to learn cool ninja stuff. Brian Hobson Karate Studio is definitely your answer. My 8 year old son is a student here and karate has done wonders for him. It's really amazing to see the change in his attitude. He has learned confidence, respect, discipline, focus, social skills, responsibility and self defense. He is so excited about karate he can hardly wait each day until the next class. Kyoshi Hobson is a 9th degree Black Belt and a National Champion. He teaches a traditional Okinawan Shorin Ryu Karate. Kyoshi's dedication and his outstanding training methods will help your child reach his or her maximum potential and become a Champion. Kyoshi Hobson and the Sensei's are truly the best in the sport. They take quality very seriously and their students are receiving the highest level in curriculum and technique. Whether the goal is competition, getting in shape or just having fun, this dojo will help them in accomplishing their goal. The student's progress is marked from beginner (white belt) through a variety of colors to (black belt). Testing for each new belt is a rewarding and challenging exercise in achieving their goal. The students also practice hard to attend competitions. These competitions are very professional and exciting. Your child will use their learned skills to compete against other karate dojos. They will learn how to perform under pressure, how to win and lose with good sportsmanship and return to the dojo the following day and be even more determined to improve themselves. They also learn to count and speak in Japanese. Games are also incorporated into the classes to make them fun. You won't find a better positive outlet for your child or yourself anywhere. All the students thrive and love it here. Karate in this Dojo ...Begins and Ends with Respect! Brian Hobson Karate Dojo also have classes for teens and adults. The classes are very high energy and very exciting. This is the Dojo for you. Stop by and check it out. You'll be amazed. By Jamie Hardison Tristan's Mom
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brian F. 6 years ago on Google
    My son and I both attend classes at this dojo. My son’s review (he’s 8 years old): “I like karate because I like the kicks. They’re fun.” For a kid, that might be enough. My review, both as a parent of a karate student, and as a student myself: the level of instruction across age levels is very high. Kyoshi Hobson and his black belts are knowledgeable and motivating. They hold each student accountable for their very best effort and focus. For the kids classes, especially, the level of mastery expected and achieved across the board is higher than any of the other area dojos I have heard about or experienced myself as a spectator at competitions. Competitions are encouraged for their benefits to students’ confidence levels and preparations, but students are able to progress at their own pace regardless of competition participation. The adult class students are held to the same level of accountability, and are motivated to improve our fitness and flexibility each and every day. For me, especially, the focus on improving flexibility is sorely needed. I particularly enjoy the “be better than you were yesterday” philosophy. My family first learned of this dojo because a friend from our church trained here and became a black belt. I feel fortunate that we were introduced to this dojo family because my son and I have very much enjoyed learning, sweating, and especially kicking.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nadia @ www.lavidaaloha.blogspot.com A. 7 years ago on Google
    A Hidden Gem in Hampton Roads! As a military family, it's always challenging moving to a new town, finding a routine, and trying to fit in. We found Brian Hobson Karate Studio through word of mouth, and started with our free trial class. From the moment we walked in the dojo, we knew we were right at home! The owner, Brian Hobson, is a charismatic Kyoshi who teaches with a combination of humor, discipline, and the type of guidance that children (and adults) need. He is also a world-class athlete and highly-decorated karate champion. The studio follows the Okinawan Shorin-Ryu karate style, which focuses on fluid movements and flexible positions with a solid structure, creating powerful moves. The students learn a variety of skills, starting with the basic positions through weapons mastery. Precision of movement is a large focus of the class, and "katas" (structured practice routines) become second-nature for the students. It's amazing to watch how many different katas even the youngest students are able to master! My son's favorite, though, is "kumite" where the students put the moves they learn into action by fighting against opponents. I have to admit that this is my favorite to watch as well, mostly because I have seen my son's confidence soar. The more he practices his katas, the better he becomes at kumite. The Dojo would not be what it is without the amazing senseis! They range in age and in levels of black belts, but they all serve the dojo with such enthusiasm and genuine love of teaching karate. They care about the students and truly want them to succeed, working with them to overcome their weaknesses and bringing out the best in them without intimidation or fear. During competitions with other Dojos, I always feel lucky to be with Brian Hobson Karate Studio. Our students' moves are clean, crisp, and they fight fairly and correctly. They cheer for each other, they help each other out, and they WIN! I am truly grateful for having found this studio. We will miss it dearly when we go to our next base, but we know that our son has gotten the best foundation for continuing on his karate journey!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 JoAnna J. 1 year ago on Google
    Our son has been attending this dojo for almost 2 years now. He started in the pee wee class and is now a purple belt (second to the highest belt in the big kids class) Our son has ADHD and struggled with focus prior to starting karate. Within the first year we saw a different kid. Our sons discipline and ability to focus has never been better. My husband and I say all the time that this was the best choice we could have made for him. The instructors are phenomenal. They have fun but they’re stern too. There is a perfect balance here I doubt we would have found anywhere else.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cortney Olds (. 6 years ago on Google
    Brian Hobson Karate is the best studio in Hampton roads! Brian and all his excellently trained instructors are committed to authentic Japanese teaching. The kids flourish and excel under Brian's direction...and have fun while doing it. We have been with Brian Hobson 4+ years and it is amazing to see children begin with no skill -and often times very shy; after one (1) month you can see drastic contrast! The children are confident, respectful and practicing karate moves like champs! I also love the encouragement every child receives fron all instructors. There is a dedication to discipline and respect that is so refreshing yet unique in 2018! I Highly recommend this studio and truly believe it is the best around.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jerry J. 6 years ago on Google
    My son's confidence has improved so much since he started going to this dojo for almost 2yrs. It is the best dojo in the area and region. His staff, and the students are very respectful to themselves, each other, and karate. They strive for their very best, always. I recommend this school to everyone and anyone. Come train with champions and the best sensei's at Brian Hobson Karate Studio!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cassandra M. 7 years ago on Google
    My daughter loves the Dojo! It has helped her mentally and physically. She is making great grades in school and I know it is in part to the discipline that she learn from karate! The instructors are very knowledgeable and have a lot of patience with the children.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Carl H. 7 years ago on Google
    For awhile me and the wife were looking at a place where my daughter could grow and learn. Everyone at the Dojo has been awesome! They teach manners, they work with the parents, they teach discipline, and better than that they have fun. My daughter has grown leaps and bounds since day one there. She looks forward to going and misses it when we are away. Kyoshi Hobson and his black belts are hands some of the best that I have been around. I did karate when I was younger and if I would have had the same experience and teachers, I would probably still be doing it. Whether or not my daughter keeps it up is not an issue because of all the life lessons she is learning and how she is growing. Thank you.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 S C. 1 year ago on Google
    I think that it is admirable that each new student is taught their 1st lesson by the owner, himself. It is a great way for Mr. Hobson to get to know each student and show them that he cares. It is convenient to have multiple days/classes to choose from that fit your schedule. For working days when school is out, Brian Hobson's studio has you covered. The studio often has camps where students mingle, watch movies, have a pizza party and earn hours for their next belt as well. The studio really makes it easy for parents. The culture is wonderful and so is the sense of community. Each new student is greeted by the class and each stripe earned is celebrated by the class as well. This is a great opportunity to see your child thrive in ways you haven't imagined yet. Your baby is dropped into a class where everyone is following the same set of instructions. Your child has to "survive" by getting with it and quickly. As a parent, you see them and their true ability to adapt and learn. They are faced with new peers, instructors, rules, kihon, concepts and a new language. And it is set up so they not only survive, but thrive! As for my little Pee-Wee karate son... Within weeks of classes at the dojo, Brian Hobson and his instructors have ignited a fire in my son that no other sport has brought out. He asks everyday if it is karate day and he also started using phrases like "I am proud of myself". His dad and I are so contented after starting karate because our son has started looking within and challenging himself. The instilled sense of self pride is something we have been working on and have found at this studio. In the Pee- Wee class, after the lessons are taught, the instructors engage the students in friendly competition. The competitions vary from individual to groups, but they focus on key skills like listening and discipline. The games are altered daily and even during the instruction to fit the skill level and challenge the students. Students and parents alike are engaged and it is such an entertaining way to end the lesson. Your child will be instructed by multiple sensei and I have found there is an awesome balance of personalities and teaching styles. Each sensei is very professional and caring. All expect respect in a way that has been somewhat lost in sportsmanship these days. Your child will address the sensei correctly, they have to pay attention. We have found this discipline, focus, listening skills and sense of respect has carried over into other aspects of our son's life.  As a coach of my son's soccer team, I have taken away lessons of my own for my instruction. I have really won by enrolling my son at Brian Hobson's studio. I look forward to what is to come.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cristopher S. 1 year ago on Google
    Hobson Karate Studio in Hampton is simply amazing! Our daughter has been a student here for a while now, starting as a pee wee and now in the big kids class. The improvement in her focus, listening skills, leadership, and spirit has been incredible to see. The instructors are knowledgeable and patient, creating a supportive environment for students to grow and learn. We highly recommend this karate program to anyone looking for a high-quality martial arts experience. 5 stars all the way!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Valysha's C. 1 year ago on Google
    I can truly say my cousin has found happiness while taking Mr. Hobsons' classes! His confidence in himself has increased greatly followed up with bravery! I believe him attending has been a useful investment and can't wait to see his continued progression!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Akeya M. 1 year ago on Google
    My son has been with Brian Hobson Karate Studio close to 1.5 years, and looks forward to going to karate everyday. He is always eager to advance to the next level, and secretly has a favorite instructor. Karate is a great outlet for children, and also a great environment for them to learn and practice discipline, and also listening skills. The instructors are firm, but this molds character and respect, something that is lacking in todays youth. They definitely push them to be their best, just like the motto, “go big or go home”. My son also loves the Karate Camps that are available when school is out, which includes more karate practice and games with their peers. Hats off to Brian Hobson and his instructors, we recommend!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shannon M. 1 year ago on Google
    Family. Brian Hobson Karate Studio is all about family. My introduction to Brian Hobson Karate Studio came when I was invited to watch my (then) girlfriend’s two boys practice karate. I knew nothing about karate or any of the various programs that Brian offered. But what I did observe in my first few sessions watching the boys was Brian’s commitment to his students, not just their karate skills, but their overall mental and physical fitness. Like a good leader and caring family member, he is stern when required, but quick to praise and encourage when a student shows effort and motivation. Over the last two years I have observed the boys grow both in their physical fitness, their karate acumen, and in their mental focus. I have watched other students overcome obstacles they probably never thought imaginable outside of the dojo. I’ve witnessed the entire dojo, students and parents alike, erupt in cheers when someone achieves a new personal goal or earns a hard-earned belt. And most importantly, through the many nights of traveling back and forth to the dojo, sitting in the lobby chairs during long weekend sessions or test days, or running the 2 miles with the boys as they have tested to achieve new belts, my relationship with my sons has grown stronger. Seeing two teenagers genuinely want to come here, night after night and want to perform well and be at their best is a testament to Brian’s teaching methods and mentorship, and the leadership qualities and warm family environment he imbues in his staff. My girlfriend is now my fiancée, and the boys are soon to be my step-sons. I can honestly say that I am truly honored to have been welcomed into this important aspect of the boys’ life and made to feel like a family member of Brian Hobson Karate Studio.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 orlanda Terry I. 1 year ago on Google
    My son has been attending here now for 2 years and he absolutely loves it! I highly recommend if you’re looking for your son or daughter to get active and move! Discipline and focus is a great teaching point.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jennifer H. 1 year ago on Google
    The Pee-Wee class has far exceeded my expectations. Hanshi and each Shihan is clearly experienced in bringing the best out in children. They are encouraging, knowledgeable and funny! What I am most impressed with is how studying this discipline has increased my son’s focus and listening skills. He does not want to miss a class! The added bonus is that although competition is encouraged, the kids and parents are part of a big family. Really glad we are part of a Hampton original dojo.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Katie C. 1 year ago on Google
    It takes a village to raise a child, this is our village. Morals and behaviors we want to instill in our children; respect, acceptance, accountability, determination, discipline, resilience and focus are engrained in our son and continue to be an influential driving force throughout his daily life in and out of the dojo. The instructors are compassionate mentors and leaders, building a form of humble confidence and respect in our son that will last a lifetime. Our sincerest thank you to our village, Brian Hobson Karate, for their devotion, love and acceptance of our son. Attached, a picture of my son and his Chief Instructor.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sheryl P. 1 year ago on Google
    Our Kids have attending your studio for few weeks now and we have to say that this has been the best decision we’ve made. Staff is very professional and highly disciplined. We are proud of the development with the both kids in their attention to detail and self awareness.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jacquelyn C. 1 year ago on Google
    My nephew Chase Lee has been attending this dojo for over a year. You can definitely see changes in his mannerisms since beginning his studies in karate and he loves to go. That speaks volumes to me, 6 year olds don’t usually stay interested in one thing that long. Keep doing what you’re doing. Respectful children turn into productive adults.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mikasha 1 year ago on Google
    My nephew Chase Lee is a student at Brian Hobson Karate Studio in Hampton. I attend practice with my daughter frequently and I am pleased with the manner in which the youth are trained. They are being prepared for life and by that I mean they are being taught respect for themselves and others. They are being taught to listen, think, and observe. You can see an obvious change in Chase from the time he began training to now, he has always had a kind heart, however now he is extremely helpful whenever an opportunity presents itself. I attribute this to the discipline he is learning and his drive to do his best in his pursuit to his black belt. Thank you Mr Hobson and team for dedicating your time to assist them in reaching excellence
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Isleny O. 1 year ago on Google
    Words cannot describe how Hobson Karate Studio in Hampton is! Our daughter started attending this studio in July 2021 by her choice. The improvement in her focus, listening skills, leadership, and spirit has been incredible to see these past months. Her instructors are knowledgeable and patient. They create a very supportive environment for EVERY student to grow. I see the growth of every child and the respectfulness they acquire out of each class. I cannot highly recommend this karate program. There are many in the area but to anyone looking for a high-quality martial arts experience, Brian Hobson Karate Studio is the way to go.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Lavetta H. 3 years ago on Google
    My son has been actively involved in Martial Acts for over two years. We moved to the Hampton Roads area from GA looking for a great place for him to continue his practice and based on the reviews we chose this place. He loved it here. The instructor are great and he thrived under their instructions but once we moved out of the area (Maryland) we attempted to cancel the contract because it was not possible for him to continue training 3 hours away. We called and sent email without response. We got letters from their billing department when they hadn’t even started back training. We were held to standards that is not even within the contract like “we must give a 30 day written notice to withdrawal” or we will be bill for that period. Basically in a nutshell, they started out awesome, the instructors are awesome, the whole experience was awesome but I have come to learn they have shady business practices and I would BEWARE if you are considering this location.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tim G. 1 year ago on Google
    This dojo has not only help my daughter improve her self esteem, confidence and focus, but has inspired my entire family! We love this place!

  • 5/5 Tamara K. 1 year ago on Google
    This is an amazing school for you to have you child in when starting out in karate. They train well and push the kids to be amazing. Can’t wait to see my child continue to rank up!!!

  • 5/5 Vicki M. 1 year ago on Google
    Turning 50, being 80 lbs over weight, & having bad knees I was concerned I would never be able to do karate. Every one of the instructors at Brian Hobson's studio is great at helping me make adjustments to achieve my goals.

  • 5/5 Jasmine B. 1 year ago on Google
    The instructors and lessons have been great and it’s a family atmosphere, that my whole family really appreciates. Thank you Brian for your outstanding leadership!

  • 5/5 Ann L. 1 year ago on Google
    My son and grandson have both participated in martial arts. Excellent lifestyle activity for young and old. Builds confidence and instills discipline with dignity. Not to mention development of physical strength and a nurturing rapport. All of this is exhibited at Brian Hopson studios. My brother was a master in the Rangers U S Army. He exhibited the benefits. Not to mention it helped him conquer his adhd which was NOT a thing in those days. Enroll your child, YOU WILL BE GLAD YOU DID.


Call (757) 825-2467 Open on Google Maps

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