Business Details
47 Years
experience
Traditional Wado-Ryu Karate Training in Phoenix, AZ
Established in 1979, Mountainside Martial Arts Center has dedicated itself to preserving the authentic traditions of Wado-Ryu Karate-do. Our discipline-based curriculum emphasizes maturity, balance, and personal growth through rigorous training in a non-franchise environment. We cultivate lifelong commitment to martial arts, focusing on motor skill development, self-discipline, and character building rather than shortcuts or entitlement.Our dojo fosters a second-family atmosphere where students train alongside experienced instructors who serve as role models for community leadership. With a 5,000-square-foot facility, we provide affordable traditional martial arts education that strengthens both body and mind while instilling core values applicable to all life aspects.
Services
Wado-Ryu Karate
Self Defense Training
Martial Arts Curriculum
Discipline Programs
Character Development
Traditional Kata Instruction
Jiujitsu Training
Community Martial Arts
Youth Programs
Adult Martial Arts
Details
- Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
- 46 years of continuous operation preserving traditional martial arts
- Non-franchise environment maintaining authentic Japanese training methods
- Emphasis on earned advancement over entitlement-based progression
- Community-focused dojo fostering personal growth and leadership skills
- Experienced instructors with decades of martial arts expertise
What people say
Love and discipline
Great role models
Traditional values preserved
Lifelong skills developed
Authentic training experience
Services
Wado-Ryu Karate
Our Wado-Ryu Karate program teaches authentic Japanese martial arts through structured curriculum emphasizing proper form, self-defense applications, and character development. Students learn traditional kata (forms) and kumite (sparring) while developing discipline, focus, and physical fitness. This practice builds both technical skill and philosophical understanding of martial arts principles.
Self Defense Training
Self-defense instruction integrates real-world applications from Wado-Ryu techniques, teaching situational awareness and practical responses to common threats. Training emphasizes de-escalation strategies, defensive positioning, and effective countermeasures while maintaining martial arts ethics. Students develop confidence through scenario-based practice under instructor supervision.
Character Development
Our character development program focuses on traditional martial values including discipline, respect, perseverance, and integrity. Through structured training and dojo etiquette, students cultivate mental resilience and ethical decision-making skills applicable beyond martial arts practice. This development occurs gradually through consistent participation and mentorship.
Youth Programs
Youth programs introduce children to Wado-Ryu fundamentals through age-appropriate instruction balancing technical training with character education. Classes improve motor skills, concentration, and self-confidence while teaching respect and teamwork. Curriculum includes games, drills, and structured practice fostering holistic development.
Traditional Kata
Kata instruction preserves traditional Wado-Ryu forms through detailed breakdown of movements, applications, and transitions. Students learn historical significance while refining technical precision and mental focus. Regular practice develops muscle memory, proper breathing, and understanding of martial principles through repetitive execution.
People
Rick Savagian
Head Instructor
With over 40 years of martial arts experience, Rick Savagian established Mountainside Martial Arts Center in 1979 to preserve traditional Wado-Ryu teachings. He emphasizes authentic training methods and character development through disciplined practice.
Ashley Ballard
Instructor
Ashley Ballard brings extensive martial arts expertise to our team, specializing in Wado-Ryu techniques and student mentorship. She contributes to maintaining traditional standards while supporting modern training applications for diverse student needs.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialize in traditional Wado-Ryu Karate-do and Jiujitsu, maintaining authentic Japanese training methods since 1979.
Are your instructors certified in Wado-Ryu?
Our instructors have decades of experience and hold advanced ranks in Wado-Ryu Karate, with lineage tracing to the style's founders.
What age groups do you accept?
We offer programs for all ages starting from youth through adults, focusing on age-appropriate skill development and character building.
How long does it take to earn a black belt?
Black belt progression follows traditional standards requiring minimum 3-5 years of dedicated training with earned advancements.
Do you offer self-defense training?
Self-defense principles are integrated throughout our curriculum, emphasizing practical applications from beginner through advanced levels.
Is your dojo affiliated with any franchise?
We are independently operated as a traditional dojo, not affiliated with any commercial martial arts franchises or chains.
