Budo Martial Arts Academy
About
Budo Martial Arts Academy in Columbus, OH offers comprehensive training across multiple disciplines including MMA, kickboxing, judo, and karate. The academy is led by Founder and Head Instructor Michael Francis, whose extensive credentials span multiple martial arts traditions. The facility provides practical amenities such as changing rooms, toiletries, and WiFi to support a comfortable training environment. Members consistently highlight how Sensei Mike's patient yet engaging teaching style creates an atmosphere where both children and adults can thrive while learning practical self-defense skills.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise Sensei Mike's exceptional teaching abilities, describing him as a natural with children who commands respect while keeping classes fun and engaging. Reviewers highlight how he serves as both instructor and mentor, instilling life skills like discipline, patience, focus, and confidence alongside martial arts techniques. Parents report seeing significant improvements in their children's behavior at home and school, with many noting transformations from arrogant or unfocused students to respectful, well-trained individuals. Specific praise focuses on his decades of experience, patient coaching style, and holistic approach that treats martial arts as a way of life rather than just physical training.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Doc Davis
10 months ago
My daughter (6) has been attending class a couple of months, and it’s been amazing! Sensei Mike works well with her and the other students in a patient but funny way, and she loves it! It’s also clear from how Mike interacts with all the students that he really becomes a mentor as well as an instructor, skills like patience, and attention to detail are an integral part of each lesson.
Carole Coleman
a month ago
I would highly recommend Budo Martial Arts Academy, if you’re looking for a self defense class for kids that also includes structure & self-discipline. Sensei Mike commands respect, along with making sure the kids stay engaged and have fun. With his teaching techniques and patience, you are assured to see development & growth in your child that goes beyond martial arts.
GG Ali
a year ago
Sensei Mike's class is absolutely phenomenal. He is a natural with children. They have so much fun with him while at the same time they are gaining structure, learning discipline, how to focus better and becoming more aware! He is truly a role model that has a heart to guide and support our young people with pure intent. Five stars isn't enough. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Mtcklsd
10 months ago
I may be a little biased as Sensei Mike has been my children's Ninjitzu instructor for 19 years but I honestly have not, and would not trust my kids in the hands of anyone else. My entire family has the highest respect for him! He has been instrumental in teaching life application skills that don't end with physical acumen. Under his tutelage, my children have learned and been held to respect for self and others, confidence, discipline, and high moral code of ethics. We have witnessed hardened arrogant students of all ages become well trained, humble, respectful people. There is a difference between a person who teaches to make a living and one who teaches because it is a way of life. Sensei Mike teaches from a place that is a way of life. His fun comfortable sense of humor does not distract from his intentional purpose. I encourage all to seek his training for physical and personal growth!
Allison Erlinger
a year ago
Outstanding! Sensei Michael is a natural teacher who brings the perfect blend of fun and command for respect to his classes. When our child began classes it was a challenge just to stand still in one place; Sensei Michael has effortlessly guided our child from there to earning the first rank promotion within several months. The physical and mental skills gained have transferred into noticeable improvements in bodily control, listening, and respect at home and school as well.
fitness_centerAmenities
Contact
5198 Riding Club Ln, Columbus, OH 43232, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 – 11:00 AM
Sunday: 1:00 – 3:00 PM
groupCoaches & Instructors
Michael Francis
Founder and Head Instructor
4th Dan Yeshua-Do, 4th Dan San Kaze Ryu Aiki Jujutsu, 3rd Dan Jizaikan Aiki Ninjutsu, 2nd Dan To Shin Do Ninjutsu, 1st Dan Iron Claw Kung Fu
School owner since 2001. Teaches children and adults with a focus on self-protection, confidence, and goal realization. Began training in Judo and Tae Kwon Do.