The Family Dojo
About
The Family Dojo in Hartford, CT offers training in multiple martial arts disciplines including MMA, Judo, and Karate. The gym is led by owner and chief instructor Sean Byrne, who holds specialized certificates in Kali Stick and Knife Fighting. This diverse curriculum caters to both children and adults seeking foundational skills or advanced techniques in a structured learning environment.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise Sean Byrne's exceptional teaching, describing him as patient, knowledgeable, and genuinely caring about every student's progress. They highlight his ability to work with mixed skill levels simultaneously while providing individualized attention and structured lessons that are both effective and fun. Reviewers emphasize the dojo's focus on character development through principles like respect and self-discipline, with students genuinely earning their belts in a safe environment. Many specifically mention the welcoming atmosphere, the balance between fun and discipline, and the strong sense of community fostered through both classes and additional activities organized by the instructors.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
MICHAEL PARK
a month ago
Mr. Byrne is an excellent instructor with endless patience. He goes out of his way to make sure every child feels included. My child is having a wonderful time and learning so much. I highly recommend checking out The Family Dojo!
Adam Turney
10 months ago
This is a great place to take your kids to learn Karate, Mr. Byrne is great with the younger students providing them the foundations to higher learning and skill, his ability to have a room full of students doing multiple techniques based on advancement level and somehow be watching each and every one of them is just astounding to me. He knows the name of every student and what they need to be focused on to advance. If you are looking for not just an activity for your kids, but to help them to understand principles like respect, self control and self discipline in a fun atmosphere then this is a great choice.
Jeremy Bradbury
3 years ago
Mr. Byrne is the definition of a teacher! He was very patient with me as I knew nothing of martial arts. My am a runner with a mix background. If I was able to learn so can you! Mr. Byrne knows his craft extremely well. His lessons are structured and are fun! Thank you for an amazing experience that I have learned and will stay with me for a lifetime!
Kelly Caya
3 years ago
Great atmosphere with a balance of fun, discipline and respect. Our son has thrived more, here, in 2 months than in 1 1/2 yrs at another school that was just pushing him through to the next belt and "graduation " fee. The students actually have to work for and earn their belts while in a safe and respectful setting. Highly recommend.
Jaye Carlin
2 years ago
Hands down the greatest place for a child (or anyone) to learn martial arts. Mr. Byrne genuinely cares about the kids in his class. His teaching style is approachable and highly effective. He leads by example and makes his students want to do well - both for themselves and for a genuine desire to earn his approval. Both he and his wife spend additional time and energy on extra experiences for the kids outside of the dojo, which ultimately results in the establishment of comradery amongst the students. Safety and respect are at the forefront of every activity. I can easily assume that his adult classes likewise excell (and once I can carve some time out for myself I fully intend to verify this assumption). To say that I would highly, and without reservation, recommend this dojo to everyone is an understatement. So grateful to have found it!
paymentsMembership
$110/mo
Contact
17 Farmington Ave, Plainville, CT 06062, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 3:00 – 7:30 PM
Tuesday: 3:00 – 7:30 PM
Wednesday: 3:00 – 7:30 PM
Thursday: 3:00 – 7:30 PM
Friday: 3:00 – 7:30 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
groupCoaches & Instructors
Sean Byrne
Owner & Chief Instructor
Certificates in Kali Stick and Knife Fighting
Began martial arts training in 2004, teaching since 2011. Started with Marine Corps Martial Arts in the military, continued in Shaolin Kempo Karate.