Mile High Karate
About
Mile High Karate offers both MMA and karate training in a family-run environment that emphasizes character development alongside martial arts skills. The gym is led by a team of experienced instructors including owners Amanda and Stephen Christensen, head instructor Alexandria Christensen (4th Degree Black Belt), and founder Grand Master Stephen Oliver (9th Degree Black Belt). With multiple certified black belt instructors on staff, the gym provides structured programs for all ages that focus on discipline, confidence, and personal growth. Members appreciate the authentic community atmosphere where students support each other's progress and instructors genuinely care about individual development.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members describe Mile High Karate as having a magical, family-like atmosphere where instructors genuinely care about students' development. Parents consistently report that their children gain confidence, leadership skills, and discipline while learning self-defense in a supportive community. Reviewers praise the old-school approach and authentic environment, with many noting that lessons learned continue to benefit them throughout life. One reviewer mentioned that the cost was higher than they could afford, but the overwhelming sentiment emphasizes the value of the personal growth and community connections developed through the program.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Charles Cordier
2 months ago
This school is quite magical!! It teaches and propels the students mind toward positive outcomes in many situations. The community and family feels authentic and genuine!! They really go above and beyond to take martial arts to the next level!! My Nephew is learning that he has a voice and how to defend himself.
Michael Bean
2 months ago
My daughter recently did some lessons here. The staff are amazing and friendly, the program is great, and my daughter really enjoyed her time. I could really see how the discipline can positively affect kids' behaviors. That said, it ended up being way more money than we could afford, so we had to stop, which was disappointing.
Julian Romero
2 years ago
There is no enough words to express how awesome this Karate School in Thornton is. Family run, with that unique old school touch that makes you feel welcome and at home. You don’t have to spend much time at this place to capture the dedication and passion the students radiate. Been a parent of two is hard to be able to give what my kids need in all areas of their development and wellbeing. Joining this school has been the best complement for our kids. They’ve been able to learn structure and discipline in a fun way. Our oldest son have found great role models that have inspire him, and we’ve seeing so many amazing attributes flourish in him, in just a couple of weeks. Thank you Mile High Karate in Thornton for all you do for the community.
Elizabeth Galentine
a month ago
The best decision we made for our sons. Consistent character, leadership and personal development. Sustained athletic and intellectual growth. Owners and adult leaders who genuinely care about your kid. Kids who want to see each other succeed and lift each other up when the going gets tough. Plus, you get to be indoors a lot of the time ;)
Mindy Davis
a month ago
I was a student at MHK when I was a kid and the life lessons I learned stuck with me as I got older. When I became a parent, I wanted my son to have those same life lessons. Not just confidence, but the discipline and work ethic, the whatever it takes attitude, perseverance to get through hard things. My son is very introverted and struggled a lot with social anxiety. Since he has been in karate, our extended family compliments him all the time on his confidence and leadership abilities. He is now a part time instructor and part of the ambassador team. He has made so many friends (so have I) and karate is really our second home. I have also found myself again. After I left karate when I was 17, I always missed it. It was such a huge part of my life and coming back was one of the best decisions I have ever made, not just for my son but for myself as well. Being able to work hard side by side with my family has been incredible. But the best part for me at this stage is seeing other students achieve their goal of becoming a black belt and helping them along that path. I love how supportive the MHK community is and I encourage everyone I meet to try martial arts. No matter your age. I am 45 and still training, I like to try to keep up with the kids! If I could give 10 stars I would!! ❤️🥋
Contact
3979 E 120th Ave, Thornton, CO 80233, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 8:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 8:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Saturday: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
groupCoaches & Instructors
Amanda Christensen
Owner / Instructor
Co-owner and operator of the Thornton location with husband Stephen. Providing martial arts instruction in the area since 2003.
Stephen Christensen
Owner / Instructor
Co-owner and operator of the Thornton location with wife Amanda. Providing martial arts instruction in the area since 2003.
Alexandria Christensen
Head Instructor
4th Degree Black Belt
Head instructor in Thornton. Began teaching Little Ninja Program at age 14. Served in CO Army National Guard, worked as behavioral therapist.
Ethan Tjeerdsma
Certified Instructor
3rd Degree Black Belt
Trained since childhood. Known for energetic instructional style and connection with students.
Jessa Wanninger
Certified Instructor
3rd Degree Black Belt
Began training in an after-school program. Known for exceptional ability to observe, connect, and lead students.
Grand Master Stephen Oliver
Founder / Head of System
9th Degree Black Belt
Founder of Mile High Karate system, enhancing lives and developing Black Belts in Denver area since 1983.
Sarah Houston
Office Manager / Black Belt Class Instructor
4th Degree Black Belt
Began training at age 11. Coordinates events, organizes curriculum, and develops staff.
Master Delfino Candia
Program Guide / Expert
Provides extensive expertise guiding the meticulously crafted programs at Mile High Karate.