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Strive Martial Arts

4.9 ★★★★★ 112 Google reviews · Karate dojo in Darien, Illinois

Free trial Kids & teens

Plan your first class

  • Free trial / intro class most dojos welcome new students with a free trial or intro class — check their site or give them a call to book your first session
  • Kids & youth classes kids and youth Karate classes — built around discipline, focus, and confidence
  • Adult classes adult Karate classes — training built for grown-ups, from fitness and fundamentals to kumite (sparring) at your own pace
  • Website & schedule strivema.com — book classes and see the live schedule
  • Phone +1 630-850-3500

The classes they run

Karate classes on the schedule at Strive Martial Arts, confirmed in students' own reviews and the dojo's own info — not guessed from the sign out front.

🧒 Kids Karate 32 mentions

“My son transferred to Strive from another martial arts school, and had a great experience from day 1.”

All dojos that run kids karate →

Other martial arts here

Karate dojos are usually multi-discipline. Here's what else students mention training under the same roof at Strive Martial Arts — mined from their reviews and the dojo's own info.

🦵 Taekwondo 5 mentions

“We have been going there for years and they have built confidence not only in tae kwon do, but also their daily lives.”

Other dojos that also teach taekwondo →

Disciplines are mined from reviews and the dojo's own info — they show what students have trained, not a formal class guarantee. If you specifically want taekwondo, jiu-jitsu, or kickboxing alongside your Karate, confirm the current schedule with the dojo.

What students say

The things reviewers bring up again and again across 112 Google reviews — in their own words.

expert instruction from a great sensei 4 mentions

“Our son earned his black belt a year back, a milestone we are so proud of, and we credit the amazing instructors and positive atmosphere at Strive for helping him get there.”

🌱 welcoming to beginners 3 mentions

“We highly recommend it to any family looking for a welcoming and inspiring martial arts school!”

friendly, respectful dojo 15 mentions

“I wholeheartedly recommend Strive Martial Arts to anyone looking to learn martial arts in a fun, supportive, and effective environment.”

🧒 strong kids program 5 mentions

“My son is improving his focus and building his confidence every time he earns new tape on his belt or graduates to the next belt.”

builds confidence, discipline & respect 26 mentions

“Master Bill and the other teachers go above and beyond to ensure each student progresses at their own pace while fostering respect and are able to cater to all ages in the class.”

From the reviews

My son transferred to Strive from another martial arts school, and had a great experience from day 1. Master Bill helped him a lot during that period, because my son had to learn a lot of new stuff, as each school has their own rules. Lessons at Strive are very dynamic, and the time just flies, according to my son.

★★★★★ — Elle, Jul 2025

I highly recommend Strive Martial Arts! Master Bill (Owner) and the entire teaching staff are truly exceptional. What sets this school apart is Master Bill’s open-minded approach; he is always willing to listen and works closely with parents to ensure both the children's and the parents' needs are met.

★★★★★ — Anisha, Jan 2026

Excellent confidence building, home discipline and focus building program for kids. My daughter was super shy at first and now looks forward to going to class with the amazing Bill the master who work so hard and diligently to help our kids grow and become confident little ones.

★★★★★ — Leyla, Jun 2023

Strive Martial Arts is absolutely fantastic! From the moment you walk in, you can feel the positive and encouraging atmosphere that Master Bill has cultivated. What truly sets Strive apart is the incredible attentiveness of all the trainers.

★★★★★ — Graham, Nov 2025

Excerpts from public Google reviews. Read all 112 reviews →

Your first Karate class at Strive Martial Arts

Nervous about walking into a Karate dojo for the first time? Almost everyone is, and a good sensei expects beginners to come through the door. Here's what to know. What to expect: a typical first class is a warm-up, then drilling basic stances, blocks, punches, and kicks — not hard sparring. Step to the side whenever you need to; no one will bat an eye. What to wear: athletic wear you can move in (or a gi if you have one); you'll train barefoot. What to bring: water, and a mouthguard if you have one — many dojos lend a loaner gi for a first class, so it's worth asking when you call. As you keep training you'll add your own gi and the belt your dojo awards you. Kumite (sparring) eases in gradually, once your fundamentals are solid. Arrive 10–15 minutes early to sign a waiver and meet the sensei. It gets easier fast — most people feel far more at home by their third class.

Karate is a contact sport. Ease in, train within your limits, listen to your instructors, and if you have any injuries or health concerns, mention them before class and check with a doctor if you're unsure.

Where to find Strive Martial Arts

6950 Kingery Hwy, Darien, IL60561

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Listing verified July 2026 from public business records and member reviews. Something out of date? Report a correction. Own this dojo? Claim your listing — it's free.