Kobukan Martial Arts Academy
About
Kobukan Martial Arts Academy in Virginia Beach offers a comprehensive range of martial arts disciplines including MMA, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, kickboxing, judo, and karate. The academy is led by Head Instructor and Founder Ron Manes, who holds black belts in both karate and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, with additional instruction from Karate Instructor Lehman Smith-Jernigan, also a karate black belt. This diverse curriculum allows students to explore multiple combat sports under experienced guidance, creating a well-rounded martial arts education in one convenient location.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the welcoming atmosphere where instructors like Mr. Ron greet everyone with patience and open arms. Parents highlight how their children immediately connect with the program, looking forward to classes each week and developing genuine excitement for learning martial arts. Specific instructors receive frequent mention, with Coach Grace noted for her fantastic energy in kickboxing classes and Mr. Ron recognized for his patient, skilled approach to karate instruction. Reviewers emphasize the safe, positive environment where children gain confidence while learning discipline, self-defense, and respect from knowledgeable instructors who genuinely care about student development.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Alexa Tidwell
a month ago
My son has been attending for about a month now and really enjoys his time here! He learns so much and the teachers are fantastic!
Donta Thatch
4 months ago
I’m very please with this Dojo. Mr Ron welcomes every one with open arms & patience. All the instructors are very knowledgeable and take their time working on each individual child. Every single staff member are people friendly And very helpful. I enrolled four of my kids in this dojo And they absolutely love it!! Great price and it’s teaching them discipline as well as self-defense. Hopefully, they will continue in the future years at Mr Ron’s Dojo
Jenny Morgan
2 months ago
I’ve been trying to find something that would truly grab my daughter’s interest. We’ve tried several sports over the years, but nothing really stuck. When we decided to try the introductory sessions here, she immediately fell in love with karate. We drive past so many karate dojos from Chesapeake to Norfolk, but this is the one she chose—and that says everything. She looks forward to coming, feels comfortable here, and is genuinely excited to learn. We absolutely love this place and are so grateful we found it. Highly recommend to any parent looking for a program that truly connects with their child. Mr Ron and his team are the absolute best!
J K
a year ago
I had been looking for a good place to take my boys too. Where they could learn to be apart of a class, and make friends. Being schooled from home they need the interaction and to learn from other adults. Their training couldn't be in better hands. Mr.Ron and his staff are all wonderful at what they do and care about their students. My kids love to go every week and I am thankful for that. They are taught to always be helpful and as they grow and learn more, to not only defend themselves but others too.
Sonya Anderson
5 months ago
Our experience at Kobukan has been nothing short of amazing! My child started about three weeks ago and he is always very excited to attend. The karate instructor is truly patient, and skilled. He has a wonderful way of connecting with the kids and making each class engaging while instilling important values like respect, discipline. Coach Grace brings such fantastic energy to every kickboxing class. She knows how to challenge the kids while still keeping it fun and supportive. Her enthusiasm is contagious, and you can tell she genuinely cares about helping each student improve and grow stronger not just physically, but mentally too. Together, the instructors have created a safe, empowering, and positive environment where kids thrive and gain confidence. We can't recommend Kobukan highly enough!
Contact
4552 E Princess Anne Rd, Norfolk, VA 23502, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Friday: 5:30 – 8:00 PM
Saturday: 8:45 AM – 2:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
groupCoaches & Instructors
Ron Manes
Head Instructor/Founder
Black Belt in Karate and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Founded Kobukan in 2008. Retired Navy combat veteran, Stage 3 throat cancer survivor. Over 23 years managing martial arts schools. Teaches Tai Chi in the community.
Lehman Smith-Jernigan
Karate Instructor
Black Belt in Karate
Began training at age 10 under Ron Manes. Ambassador Karate Representative for Kobukan since 2011. Focuses on building confidence and discipline in students.