Crouching Tigers
About
Crouching Tigers offers mixed martial arts and karate training with a focus on youth development and convenient scheduling. The gym provides instruction through experienced coaches including Sensei Kaila, Sensei David, and Sensei Kory, supported by leadership from founder Olivia Roney Mitchell and program directors like Kristen Zogbi and Steve Zogbi. A distinctive feature is their mobile program that brings lessons directly to schools and childcare centers, making martial arts accessible during the day for busy families.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the positive impact on children's development, noting increased confidence, independence, and important life skills. They specifically highlight instructors like Sensei David and Sensei Kaila for their excellent classroom control, respectful modeling, and ability to make lessons engaging. Parents appreciate the convenient school based scheduling and the meaningful promotion ceremonies where children break boards and demonstrate skills. Reviewers emphasize that the program teaches valuable lessons beyond just karate techniques, with multiple mentions of how even non enrolled children want to participate.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Alex Downs
3 months ago
My son has been participating in Crouching Tigers now for almost a year and a half, and I cannot recommend it enough! They come right to his school, and they have their lessons during the day which is a big help for our busy lives. He looks forward to his lessons each week with his Sensei, and at the end of each course there’s a promotion ceremony where the kids break boards, show off what they’ve learned, and get a stripe on their belt. It’s a lot of fun, and my son has really enjoyed his time with the program!
Terri Russo
3 months ago
Sensei David did a great job teaching my daughter this session. She has developed so.much confidence and independence. It is cool to see!
Lacey Coyle
a year ago
Crouching Tigers is absolutely fantastic! As a childcare teacher, I’m so grateful they come to our program. My students have a blast with Sensei Kaila during karate class! Even the kids who aren’t enrolled keep asking to join in on the fun. I really love that they do a class demo every semester—it’s such a great opportunity for me to promote the program after seeing it in action myself. This program teaches so much more than just karate, which is incredibly valuable at this age. If you haven’t signed your child up yet, you definitely should!
Dea Carmichael
3 months ago
Sensi David is really amazing with the kids. He has great control of the class and teaches respect through modeling and positive interactions. Thrilled to have him at our school.
Chris and Losalind Connell
3 months ago
Crouching Tigers has been a wonderful in helping our toddler learn important life skills like listening and empowerment through kind actions and words. We’ve enjoyed the ceremonies at the end and can see the difference it has made. Thanks Sensei David for your teachings!
Contact
5255 Winthrop Ave Suite 7, Indianapolis, IN 46220, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
groupCoaches & Instructors
Sensei Kaila
Instructor
Comes from recruiting and preschool background. Enjoys developing connections with students and values the company's positive leadership.
Sensei David
Instructor
Has been teaching martial arts to kids for over 15 years. Joined CT in 2019. Loves watching students develop confidence and mindfulness.
Olivia Roney Mitchell
Founder + CEO
Program Creator
Founded Crouching Tigers in 2007. Passionate about using martial arts to teach life and safety skills to children ages 2-7 in a positive, empowering way. Mother of four.
Kristen Zogbi
Indiana Program Director
Joined Crouching Tigers in 2011 and has overseen program expansion into over 250 preschools. Experienced mom and instructor.
Steve Zogbi
Master Trainer
Joined in 2009. Brings energy and passion with a physical education background. Empowers instructors to be their best.
Laurie Pierce
Director of Culture and Engagement
Brings experience in youth/family engagement and ministry. Passionate about helping children build resilience, empathy, and purpose.
Sensei Gillian
Indianapolis West/Lafayette Assistant Program Director, Instructor
Holds a Bachelor's in Psychology. Has 4 years experience working with children ages 2-15. Loves incorporating movement into teaching.
Sensei Victoria
Indianapolis Central/South Assistant Program Director
Goal is to be a positive example in every class. Finds inspiration in the determination and perseverance of the students.
Sensei Kory
Instructor
Has experience as a preschool teacher and administrator. Thrilled to be part of the team, finds teaching fun and rewarding.