Martial arts training offers discipline, fitness, and self-defense skills. Here are the best schools to consider in Roanoke.
MHMaya Hendricks · Home Services Editor Updated June 13, 2026 · Next review July 2026
Editorially independent10 companies evaluated
cover story
★ Editor's ChoiceLindamood's Martial Arts Center
96Score
Latest update · June 13, 2026: Initial ranking published. 10 Roanoke-metro martial arts businesses evaluated, top 10 ranked by Vetted Score.
Martial arts schools in Roanoke provide essential training for self-defense, fitness, and personal growth. With a tight-knit community and a growing interest in martial arts, the competition among local schools is heating up.
We evaluated ten schools in the Roanoke area, focusing on their ratings and review counts. This list reflects the most reliable options, taking into account the unique dynamics of the local market.
10martial arts schools evaluated in Roanoke
4.92average rating across the field
539customer reviews analyzed
Cityvetted analysis of public Google review data, updated June 13, 2026.
With a stellar rating of 5 stars from 105 reviews, Lindamood's Martial Arts Center is highly praised for its welcoming environment and skilled instructors.
To rank the best martial arts schools in Roanoke, we analyzed customer ratings and the number of reviews. All businesses are evaluated fairly, with no paid placements influencing rankings.
This list is updated monthly to reflect the latest feedback from students and parents, ensuring you have the most current information when choosing a school.
The Vetted Score: six weighted factors
Customer sentiment25%
Rating quality20%
Review volume & velocity20%
Website trust signals15%
Service breadth10%
Business longevity10%
Sentiment is measured by AI analysis of review text, recency-weighted, with verified-pattern checks to discount suspicious review bursts.
With a stellar rating of 5 stars from 105 reviews, Lindamood's Martial Arts Center is highly praised for its welcoming environment and skilled instructors. Families appreciate the focus on discipline and respect, making it ideal for children. One downside is that class sizes can be larger, which might affect individual attention.
Pros
Welcoming environment
Skilled instructors
Focus on discipline
Cons
Larger class sizes may limit individual attention
Limited specialized classes
Best forFamilies and beginners looking for a comprehensive martial arts experience
Roanoke Taekwondo & Ninja Academy holds an impressive 4.9 rating from 75 reviews. Reviewers highlight the academy's engaging classes and the emphasis on self-defense skills. It offers a good balance of fun and discipline, making it a great value for families. However, some parents noted that the scheduling can be a bit rigid.
Pros
Engaging classes
Emphasis on self-defense
Good value for families
Cons
Rigid scheduling
Limited adult classes
Best forFamilies seeking a fun and disciplined environment for kids
Excel Martial Arts boasts a 4.8 rating from 116 reviews, reflecting its popularity in the area. Reviewers commend the knowledgeable staff and structured classes that cater to various skill levels. It’s a solid choice for those wanting to progress in their martial arts journey. On the downside, some users mentioned that it can get crowded during peak hours.
Pros
Knowledgeable staff
Structured classes
Variety of skill levels
Cons
Can be crowded during peak hours
Limited parking
Best forIndividuals at any skill level looking to improve
Kaizen Jiu Jitsu Roanoke has earned a perfect 5-star rating from 42 reviews. Students appreciate the focus on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques and the friendly atmosphere. It's a great place for anyone interested in grappling. However, the smaller class size may limit the variety of techniques taught. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is those specifically interested in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It serves Roanoke, VA, with $80 to $130 per month pricing, and the honest trade-offs are limited variety in techniques due to smaller classes and less emphasis on striking arts.
Pros
Perfect rating
Focus on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Friendly atmosphere
Cons
Limited variety in techniques due to smaller classes
Less emphasis on striking arts
Best forThose specifically interested in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Super Kicks Karate holds a 4.9 rating from 50 reviews. Parents appreciate the focus on character development alongside martial arts training. It's especially suitable for younger children. One downside is that they primarily focus on karate, which may not appeal to those looking for a broader martial arts experience. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is young children and families prioritizing character development. It serves Roanoke, VA, with $60 to $120 per month pricing, and the honest trade-offs are limited to karate and fewer classes for older students.
Pros
Focus on character development
Suitable for younger children
Supportive instructors
Cons
Limited to karate
Fewer classes for older students
Best forYoung children and families prioritizing character development
Star City Taekwondo features a 4.9 rating based on 43 reviews. Students love the energetic classes and the focus on competition. This school is perfect for those looking to compete. However, the competitive focus might not be for everyone, especially beginners. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is competitive students looking to excel in Taekwondo. It serves Roanoke, VA, with $70 to $130 per month pricing, and the honest trade-offs are not beginner-friendly and high competition pressure.
Pros
Energetic classes
Focus on competition
Experienced instructors
Cons
Not beginner-friendly
High competition pressure
Best forCompetitive students looking to excel in Taekwondo
Star City Taekwondo has a similar rating of 4.9 from 43 reviews as its counterpart. Students appreciate the community feel and supportive environment. It’s great for those wanting to learn in a friendly setting. However, the focus on advanced techniques could be challenging for newcomers. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is students looking for a supportive learning environment. It serves Roanoke, VA, with $70 to $130 per month pricing, and the honest trade-offs are advanced techniques may challenge newcomers and limited class times.
Pros
Community feel
Supportive environment
Experienced instructors
Cons
Advanced techniques may challenge newcomers
Limited class times
Best forStudents looking for a supportive learning environment
Hybrid -- Jiu-Jitsu * judo * Muay Thai enjoys a 4.8 rating from 41 reviews. Reviewers appreciate the mix of martial arts styles, making it ideal for those wanting variety. However, some students feel that the classes can be a bit unstructured at times. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is students wanting to explore multiple martial arts styles. It serves Roanoke, VA, with $80 to $150 per month pricing, and the honest trade-offs are classes can feel unstructured and limited beginner classes.
Pros
Variety of martial arts styles
Experienced instructors
Good community
Cons
Classes can feel unstructured
Limited beginner classes
Best forStudents wanting to explore multiple martial arts styles
Star City Jiu-Jitsu Academy holds a perfect 5-star rating from 17 reviews. Students enjoy the focus on technique and the friendly instructors. It’s a great choice for those interested in Jiu-Jitsu. However, the limited reviews suggest it's still building its reputation. The review base is still thin, so we read the rating as promising rather than proven and weighted it accordingly. Most of what reviewers hire it for is those specifically interested in Jiu-Jitsu techniques. It serves Roanoke, VA, with $70 to $120 per month pricing, and the honest trade-offs are limited reviews and smaller class sizes.
Pros
Perfect rating
Focus on technique
Friendly instructors
Cons
Limited reviews
Smaller class sizes
Best forThose specifically interested in Jiu-Jitsu techniques
Roanoke Kung Fu Association has a 5-star rating from 7 reviews. Reviewers appreciate the unique focus on Kung Fu and the personalized attention from instructors. It’s ideal for those looking for a different martial arts experience. However, the very limited number of reviews raises questions about its consistency. The review base is still thin, so we read the rating as promising rather than proven and weighted it accordingly. Most of what reviewers hire it for is individuals interested in Kung Fu. It serves Roanoke, VA, with $60 to $100 per month pricing, and the honest trade-offs are very limited reviews and smaller class sizes.
Selecting the right martial arts school involves considering location, class offerings, and instructor qualifications. Here are key factors to help you decide.
Location matters
Look for schools that are easily accessible from your home or work. Proximity can influence your commitment to training.
Class variety
Check if the school offers a range of classes, including different martial arts styles and age groups. This flexibility can enhance your experience.
Instructor credentials
Research the instructors' backgrounds. Experienced teachers with strong credentials can provide more effective training and guidance.
What it costs
What martial arts classes cost in Roanoke
Prices for martial arts classes in Roanoke can vary significantly based on the school, class type, and membership options. Here's a general breakdown.
Group Classes$75 to $150 per month for unlimited access to group classes.
Private Lessons$50 to $100 per session, depending on the instructor's experience and class duration.
Family Packages$150 to $300 per month for families enrolling multiple members.
Trial Classes$10 to $30 for a single trial class to assess the school before committing.
Frequently asked questions
How much does martial arts training cost in Roanoke?
Prices for martial arts classes in Roanoke generally range from $100 to $200 per month, depending on the school and the type of program.
What age groups do the martial arts schools in Roanoke cater to?
Most martial arts schools in Roanoke offer programs for children as young as 4, as well as classes for teens and adults.
How often is this ranking updated?
We re-run the full analysis monthly with fresh review data. Last updated June 13, 2026.
Our verdict
For most Roanoke families: <strong>Lindamood's Martial Arts Center</strong>
If you're looking for a well-rounded martial arts program with a solid reputation, Lindamood's Martial Arts Center is your best bet. Their extensive experience and impressive 105 reviews give you the confidence you need. For younger students and those interested in Taekwondo, Roanoke Taekwondo & Ninja Academy is a fantastic choice, offering specialized classes that cater to kids and beginners alike. If you're seeking variety, Excel Martial Arts provides a diverse curriculum that appeals to a wide range of students, making it a great option for families wanting to explore different styles.