Long's Shotokan Karate Academy

8.9
U.S. Hwy 40, Independence, MO 64055
Perfect for:
FamiliesChildren seeking discipline
Open now
Long's Shotokan Karate Academy interior

About

Long's Shotokan Karate Academy in Independence, Missouri is a well-established martial arts school that emphasizes character development alongside technical training. The academy offers multiple disciplines including karate, judo, aikido, and jujitsu in a family-oriented environment. Under the leadership of Sensei Mark Long, the dojo has built a reputation for helping students develop confidence, discipline, and respect while learning valuable self-defense skills.

Karate Schools VerifiedKarate Schools Verified
8.94/10

Our weighted 10-point scoring system for martial arts academies prioritizes instruction quality, training environment, and overall student experience.

We consider factors like instructor expertise, class structure, and facility quality. Our assessment combines student feedback, expert reviews, and website information.

Scores above 9.00 denote world-class quality, signifying premier martial arts training experiences.

Overall Vibe imageOverall Vibe
9.2153 reviews
Instructor imageInstructors Quality
9.6349 reviews
Class Structure imageClasses
9.1735 reviews
Facility Quality imageFacility Quality
8.0634 reviews
Value for Money imagePricing
10.001 reviews
Location and Accessibility imageLocation & Accessibility
7.577 reviews

Public Review Sentiment

Google
Based on 69 Google Reviews
The academy has overwhelmingly positive reviews, with most parents highlighting the positive impact on their children's confidence, discipline, and respect. Many reviewers mention staying with the dojo for years or even decades, indicating strong student retention and satisfaction.
Last Updated 11 Apr 2025

Instructors

Sensei Mark Long, a 7th Degree Black Belt and Team USA Gold Medalist, is highly regarded for his teaching ability and personal investment in students. The academy features several experienced black belt instructors who are praised for their knowledge and supportive approach.

Facility

The facility appears to be functional and well-maintained, though specific details about amenities are limited in reviews. The main concern mentioned is limited parking space which occasionally prevents students from attending class.

Pricing

The academy offers a flat monthly fee structure that allows students to take multiple classes across different martial arts disciplines. Many parents consider this a good value compared to other schools that charge per class or per discipline.

Facility

Generally CleanMixed SpacingTraining matsChanging areaWeapons training equipment

Gym

Mixed AtmosphereSupportive VibeGood Safety

Instructors

ExperiencedSupportiveKnowledgeableDisciplinedCaring

Classes

GiCompetitionAdvancedKids ClassesAdult friendly

Pricing

Good ValueFree trial

The academy offers one free trial class for prospective students, which many reviewers mention as their entry point to joining the dojo.

Location

Limited ParkingGood Accessibility

Opening Hours

Open now
Monday 4AM - 9PM
Tuesday (Today)5 - 9PM
Wednesday 5 - 9PM
Thursday 5 - 9PM
Friday 5 - 7PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Location

The academy is located in Independence, Missouri with generally good accessibility but limited parking that can sometimes prevent attendance.

Address

U.S. Hwy 40, Independence, MO 64055

Website

https://www.longsshotokan.com/

Phone

+1 816-257-6933

Frequently Asked Questions

What age groups does Long's Shotokan Karate Academy serve?

The academy offers programs for all ages, including Little Dragons for ages 3-4, Kids Karate for ages 5-12, and adult classes. Many families train together, making it a true family-oriented dojo.

What martial arts disciplines are taught at the academy?

Beyond traditional Shotokan Karate, the academy offers training in multiple disciplines including Aikido, Judo, Jujitsu, and Kickboxing, providing students with a well-rounded martial arts education.

How does the academy approach character development?

Sensei Long incorporates life lessons, respect training, and behavioral coaching alongside martial arts instruction. Students learn discipline, confidence, focus, and respect as core values, with many parents noting significant positive changes in their children's behavior.

Is the academy suitable for beginners with no martial arts experience?

Yes, the academy welcomes beginners of all ages and provides appropriate instruction for each skill level. Many reviewers mention starting with no experience and feeling welcomed and supported from their first class.