Reviews of Southern Maine Martial Arts

I came to SMMA from another, smaller dojo, and joined the adult class rather than the class offered for kids under twelve. I am now about to test for my black belt through this school, and I couldn't have wished for a better place to study karate. Jeff Farley is an excellent Sensei; he is so passionate about the work he does, and it shows in the patience and eagerness of his teaching. At this school I've learned not only how to be a better fighter, but how to be a better person in general. If you observe any of the kids' classes, you'll hear them reciting the five rules of the school before they remove their belts and bow out: "Effort, to try my hardest. Etiquette, good manners. Sincerity, honesty and truthfulness. Self-control, to control my actions and emotions. Character, to be myself and the best I can be. " And there are more, besides, that we are taught as we bow to each other, and work to keep each other safe as we improve our skills. Respect. The value of kindness. The consequences of rash action. The irreplaceable beauty of life. In an age where we expose our kids to depravity and violence so early on, could there be better values than these to pass on to our children? I think not.

Jeff teaches with such patience. He focuses on self-discipline, honor, perseverance and ethics. These values translate to more than just Kempo Karate skills.