How to Join the New Student Special in Tucson

~ Trinity Johnson

​

The AIK family has been the light in my life ever since I moved to Arizona at the end of my eighth grade year. I didn’t know anyone but I had my orientation class the second day in this new city. My brother and I clicked so well at this dojo that it was a relief to have found a new place to continue to train in martial arts. My dad even joined the following year.

​

I had this place to get me through all four years of high school and they have given me a home I didn’t even know I needed. This place has been my safe space and a place to push myself to be the best version of me possible. Even through Covid, classes took place over Zoom, but the teachers still made you feel special and a part of a family. Through any fear, anger, sadness, or anything rough going on in my life it was a place to keep me grounded. I have felt that those with more experience than me have taken me under their wings and helped me grow into the woman I am today. If you decide to join, know that this dojo will become a home and the people in it will treat you as part of their family.

​

​

~Patti Racina

​

My son began as a “little dragon” (youth program) during first grade. The classes were fun, but structured, and he was excited to learn and advance in the ranks. We noted an improvement in his ability to focus in school, which helped his grades and his confidence. As he has transitioned into the junior classes, he continues to enjoy the instruction, including how it continues to be challenging as he progresses.

​

The entire staff at AIK have always been available if needed for additional one-on-one instruction. They are skilled at working with a variety of different kids. AIK worked through the pandemic, by posting online supplemental material and teaching classes via Zoom (which is still ongoing). I highly recommend the American Institute of Kenpo to any parent considering it for their child. They are a dedicated staff that will instill great core values and train your child in karate.

​

​

~Oleg Cohen

​

My son Sam and I joined AIK in the summer of 2021 right after moving to Tucson from Massachusetts. We took advantage of the New Student Special at AIK and we never regretted that decision. The New Student Special provided us, first and foremost, with an opportunity to train at AIK to evaluate for ourselves whether the school was the best choice for us. The New Student Special program provides new students with the uniform and the belt which is very important if you want to truly feel a part of the Martial Arts training experience.

Another great feature of the New Student Special is the orientation class. I was great for me, even though I had been training for years, but it was super valuable for my son Sam who at the time was 8. Sam is shy and the personal orientation class was very helpful to get him acclimated and comfortable when joining the group class. For me personally, the orientation provided an opportunity to have a tour of the dojo as well as learning more about the philosophy of teaching at AIK.

When we joined, everybody at AIK was both super nice and extremely helpful. I will say the time spent training during the New Student Special was ample for Sam and I to understand that AIK is a great place to join and continue our American Kenpo training journey!