Reviews of Thurston Academy of Martial Arts

Just plain avoid unless you looking for a cult atmosphere. The owner's own mother is suing him which should tell you all you need to know.

I have been attending Thurston academy jiu-jitsu 4 days a week for about 2 years now. I enjoy all of my classmates and every instructor.

Every instructor is willing and ready to help you if you're ready to help yourself. If you are dedicated to yourself and committed to your personal growth they will be with you every step of the way.

Don't pay attention to all the negative reviews with false names attached… This is a great school with great instruction. If you want to great learning environment for your child or for yourself this is the place to go. The instructors a motivational and upbeat and full of great energy. Your child or yourself will have a great time learning true martial arts the right way in a positive atmosphere.

Tried this dojo a few years back. Basically uses his students to teach. At end of class owner comes in and acts like a tough guy. A lot of false bravado and ego. As he was showing off, he strikes a white belt in stomach to show his, "energy". Then expects everyone to idealize him. Seemed like a character from a movie. Think Cobra Ki! Spent a lot of time knocking any other style!

All about the money. .. have fun taking your children out of the school. ...shameless promotions to keep the new bodies signing contracts while current members feel like they just got a slap in the face. ......just a matter of time till they re putting out thurston urinal cakes in public bathrooms

Do not get involved with Joe Thurston. In addition to being intimidating he loves litigation.

Great instruction, very legitimate teachings, and it has all the equipment you need to do all sorts of training. .. all the way from tricking (flips and such) to Okinawan Karate with conditioning tools aplenty!

Everyone is very welcoming, super positive, and will help you achieve your goals. .. whether it's being the next GSP, helping your child learn the martial way, or just simply losing a few pounds, they'll bend over backwards for you and your family to get it done! I wouldn't go anywhere else!

Check out their testimonials and other positive reviews. This place is the real deal!

Sinsei Joe is a knowledgeable instructor. He pushes you to achieve your maximum potential. The instructors are the greatest. There is no intimidation. Every student and instructor supports each other in training. Sensei Joe doesn't just hand out belt promotions. You have to earn every rank you achieve. While doing so Sensei Joe is there to pass on knowledge and answer any questions. There are No Ego Problems Here. Every person is treated with respect and dignity. Go visit the Dojo, meet with Sinsei Joe, and take a class. You won't regret it. Bring the kids too. Excellent programs for children. Don't wait sign up today.

This school would be good if wife of owner (Allison) ran it. Enter Husband Joe and I would look for another place. Big ego, control freak, intimidation. All part of Joes bag of tricks. Keep on looking.

I've been training for 4 years and I can't thank Sensei joe and Sensei Alison enough for everything they have done for me and my family! They actually care about you!! It's not a belt factory where they are just handing you belts and fees and not caring what equipment you use. Thurston academy checks to make sure I'm safe with what im using, they don't charge me for belts because I earn those through training. They make sure that they have an open line of communication with me and my life in case things get crazy and my training becomes erratic. They make sure I stay on course to my goals and cheer me on in class, That by far is the best part I believe at thurston. Everyone there has no ego, everyone pushes you to be better cheering you on when things get hard and not letting you give up on yourself because sensei joe sees what you are really capable of, and strives to get you to see tht yourself. I would defiantly suggest this place for anyone wanting to EARN a belt and be apart of a close supportive dojo family.

Thurston Academy is a teaching facility where you are a STUDENT, it is not a gym where you're a client. This means that there is a teacher who cares about your progress, reaching your goals, and becoming the best YOU you can be. They teach only legitimate martial arts and will make sure that is all you learn.

In the 5 years I've been training, I've made tremendous progress through my martial arts training. The school has made me physically stronger, quicker, more coordinated than I ever thought my body could be. I've broken down mental walls that I had my entire life and developed a no-quit attitude that will never be broken. I've met wonderful people from all over the world and made friendships that will last a lifetime.

Thurston Academy has changed my life. The school has opened up my eyes as to what I can accomplish in my life and taught me that ANY goal I set is attainable through hard work, dedication, and a positive attitude. I attribute these lessons learned solely to the fantastic group of people that both attend and instruct at Thurston Academy.

Domo arrigato gozimus Sensei.

Body image can be tough sometimes. They are supportive and encouraging and help you to achieve your best. Your best, not someone else's. I would highly recommend to children, adults, beginners and advanced practitioners. There is a variety of classes and times. Your choice of locations and is convenient for everyone's schedule. Summer is around the corner. Start your training today.

This Academy is a great learning environment. The instructors teach discipline, honor, responsibly, courage, and respect. Bring your family in and try it out for yourself.

I would say this place is about training if you have a family stay away. They do not understand family at all. If you don't do what Sensei says your out of there. That may work out fine in the Dojo thats how it should be. Not at home and in everyday life. Life is too short to spend it all with The Thurstons.

He will be little your child for not having all equipment. Tell you you’re a bad parent and not let you leave. There is no way out of his contract. You are in for life.

Great value for your money. At least you know he puts money back into the business. Very clean well equiped Dojo.