UpLevel Martial Arts - Ballantyne

Uplevel Ballantyne is a great Martial Arts Academy. They offer karate, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and martial arts to people of all ages. (Theu also are a Gracie school and look at anti-bullying!) They also build relationships and teach life skills. Highly recommend!

We have always been the family that sits in the back; close to an exit just in case our child has a meltdown. Our son is an incredible, talented, kind, intelligent and extremely rambunctious 5 year old; he also happens to be on the Autism Spectrum. We came to UpLevel with the hope that through the instruction of martial arts our son would feel more in control of his body and hopefully comply with group instruction. After a particularly hard class with our son Mr. McGee pulled my husband and I aside and said, “You don’t need to apologize here, you don’t need to instruct; you just need to be his parents and enjoy the class with him. He is exactly who he needs to be and wherever he is where we will begin.” Mr. McGee and his incredible instructors have a precise balance of expectation and patience that is uncommon in a world that expects so little from children. They practice every expectation asked of their students with precision and excellence. They always explain why a skill is being taught and work seamlessly as a team to give every Little Leader individual instruction and encouragement. Our three year old daughter is also a student at this location and has found joy and confidence in learning many new skills, pride in the things she now accomplishes independently from her home chart, and a thrill in participating in every class. She has exceeded our expectations on every level. The instructors at Ballantyne show respect and kindness to every student and parent. Their ability to think quickly about the intention behind the instruction and adapt their expectations for children that learn differently make them uniquely successful at teaching different ages and abilities. They have a balance of being silly enough to engage a toddler and firm enough to quickly and quietly redirect or address a behavior. They show a level of maturity that can only reflect their own commitment to the art of the sport.

UpLevel Ballantyne is an exceptional martial arts school that truly focuses on developing both skills and character. Instructor Mr Henry McGee does a fantastic job creating an environment where students not only learn martial arts techniques but also build discipline, confidence, and strong personal habits. Also the support instructors are very encouraging and patient. What stands out most is the emphasis on values like respect, focus, perseverance, and self-control. Mr McGee is patient, motivating, and clearly passionate about helping each student grow. He encourages kids to push themselves, set goals, and stay consistent while making the classes enjoyable and engaging. The institute has a very positive and supportive atmosphere where students feel encouraged and proud of their progress. It’s clear that the goal is not just to train good martial artists, but to help shape responsible, confident young individuals. I highly recommend UpLevel Ballantyne and Instructor Mr McGee to any family looking for a martial arts program that builds both physical strength and lifelong character.

I have seen a huge change in my boys ever since we started going to martial arts class at UpLevel. My eldest, has been so much more confident around his friends and has also allowed for the leader inside him to show. My little one, has also made huge improvement as well. He was terrified at first but thanks to the amazing instructors (Mr. McGee, Mr. Val and Ms. Suj) he now loves it and looks forward to each class. I highly recommend UpLevel to any parent that is looking for an extra activity to keep their kiddos occupied.

We couldn't be happier with Uplevel, our son is thriving since starting there. All leaders are wonderful and the combination of firm and kind is just right. And they make it so much fun!