Action Karate Manayunk runs programs built around where your child actually is right now: their age, their personality, and what they need to grow. Every class is structured, intentional, and led by instructors who genuinely care about what happens after your kid walks off the mat.

Adult Martial Arts Classes

Real training for real life. Adults at Action Karate Manayunk build strength, sharpen focus, and develop a level of self-confidence that carries over into work, parenting, and everyday decisions. No prior experience needed. Just show up.

Try 3 Classes $49

Learn More

Kids Martial Arts Classes

Your child learns discipline, respect, and self-control inside a structured class environment. But what parents notice most? The changes at home. Listening the first time. Tidying up without being asked. Standing a little taller.

Try 3 Classes $49

Learn More

Ninja Sharks Ages 3 to 6 Classes

Tiny humans, big energy. Ninja Sharks is designed for the youngest students, turning wiggles and enthusiasm into foundational movement, listening skills, and social confidence. And yes, they have a blast doing it.

Try 3 Classes $49

Learn More

Special Needs Martial Arts Classes

Action Karate Manayunk is proud to offer an inclusive environment for students with additional needs. Our instructors adapt their teaching to meet each child where they are, creating a space that is safe, affirming, and focused on real progress.

Try 3 Classes $49

Learn More

Birthday Parties

Skip the pizza place this year. Celebrate your child’s birthday on the mat with Action Karate Manayunk. It’s active, it’s memorable, and kids talk about it for weeks. Contact us to check availability.

Learn More

Find the perfect class time for you or your child! Get our schedule straight to your email. Get My Schedule

Why Action Karate

Philadelphia Voted Us the Best. Your Neighbors Already Know Why

Action Karate Manayunk was named the Best Martial Arts School in Philadelphia. But the award isn’t the point. The point is what happens in class, every single week, for every single kid who walks through our doors.

Your child will learn to regulate themselves, not just their kicks

Instructors at Action Karate Manayunk are trained to teach the mental side of martial arts alongside the physical. Students learn to pause before reacting, breathe through frustration, and push through moments that feel hard. That skill transfers everywhere.

Every instructor is background-checked and safety-certified

You trust us with your kid. We take that seriously. Every person who teaches at this location has passed a full background check and completed Action Karate's instructor certification program. There are no shortcuts on safety.

The community around your child matters as much as the curriculum

We've built genuine relationships with the YMCA, Hillside Rec Center, Roxborough and Andorra Public Libraries, and local schools throughout Manayunk and Roxborough. When your child joins Action Karate, they're joining a neighborhood.

Our Space

A Proper Training Environment, Right in the Heart of Manayunk

We didn’t cut corners on space. Our Manayunk facility gives students room to move, instructors room to teach, and parents a clean, welcoming place to sit and watch their kids grow.

Established

0 sq ft

Total Facility

0 sq ft

Training mat

0 students

Max class size

Action Karate Manayunk

4.9

Based on 320 reviews

review us on

Cheryl Boyd-Abner

14:07 18 Jun 26

We discovered Action Karate Manayunk when we attended a birthday party for one of my daughter's classmates. After the party, my daughter tried a few classes in February, and we've been committed ever since!
I would describe my daughter as naturally confident, but her experience at Action Karate has helped strengthen that confidence even further. We love seeing the growth she has made thus far.
We also appreciate the diversity of the student body and the supportive, encouraging staff. Overall, we are happy with everything we've experienced so far, and are excited to see how our daughter continues to develop her focus, discipline, and confidence.

Georgina Bennett

15:32 16 Jun 26

My family and I love Action Karate. My son and I go weekly, and he already has a stripe. The instructors are kind, friendly, and very knowledgeable. Although I am physically disabled, I feel like I am a part of the team, and they help me find safe ways to participate. I would recommend Action Karate to anyone (adult or child) to sign up.

Sia Elle Beckwith

16:10 05 Jun 26

We enrolled our 12-year-old in Action Karate Manayunk over spring break, and we couldn’t be happier. She has continued with the program. From day one, she’s loved every class—the workouts are challenging, the staff are incredibly supportive, and she’s already feeling encouraged and motivated.
One of the things we appreciate most is the flexibility in class placement. As an older beginner, she has the option to join either the younger kids’ classes or the teen/adult sessions. This variety gives her unique perspectives and helps her learn from a broad range of peers.

Beyond physical training, the program emphasizes leadership, reflection, and personal growth. For example, in a recent class, the instructors highlighted all the sacrifices adults make to support their kids’ karate—transportation, uniforms, and more—and encouraged the students to express gratitude directly through conversation and connection. Moments like these demonstrate that Action Karate isn’t just about building strong punches and high jumps—it’s about cultivating kind, responsible, and thoughtful young people.
We are thrilled with the experience so far and feel confident that our daughter is developing both physically and emotionally in a nurturing, motivating environment. Highly recommend for any parent looking for a program that teaches more than just martial arts.

lisa crego

19:17 04 Jun 26

I can't say enough great things about Ms. Taura and Mr. C at Action Karate Manayunk! Their passion for teaching and dedication to every student is evident from the moment you walk through the doors. They create a positive, encouraging, and disciplined environment where students are challenged to do their best while having fun.

Ms. Taura and Mr. C have an incredible ability to connect with students of all ages, helping them build confidence, respect, focus, and perseverance both on and off the mat. They take the time to get to know each student personally and genuinely care about their growth and success.

The energy, professionalism, and sense of community at Action Karate Manayunk are truly outstanding. Whether you're looking for martial arts training, character development, or a supportive community, this is the place to be.

Tifanie Brown

20:42 18 Mar 26

We’ve had an amazing experience with Action Karate! Since joining, I’ve seen a huge boost in my daughter’s confidence, and it’s been so rewarding to watch her grow both mentally and physically. She trains hard, stays motivated, and genuinely looks forward to every class.

The instructors are absolutely fantastic; supportive, encouraging, and very intentional about the lessons they teach. It’s clear they care not just about technique, but also about building character and discipline in each student.

Jamaal Groce

14:58 10 Mar 26

Action karate Manyunkis such an amazing place! Ever since joining my daughter has been really focused on not only her karate skills, but her attentiveness, wanting to continue to be better in all aspects of life and she has such fun with her peers. All of the staff are very knowledgeable and extremely helpful with all of the kids and they make it such a fun and loving atmosphere. I highly recommend that other parents allow their kids to join here and they too will see such amazing things as well as enjoy the friendly staff. when it came to my daughter’s birthday, they made an everlasting memory embedded in her mind… Everything was hospitable, entertaining and beautiful. Thank you so much action in karate Manyunk for being amazing.

jesus Cruz

15:59 01 Mar 26

We couldn't be happier with our experience at Action Karate Manayunk. Ms. Tara and Mr. C are truly incredible—they don’t just teach kicks and punches; they focus on building our child’s confidence from the inside out. It’s been amazing to see the life skills they instill, like discipline and respect, carry over into school and home life. Plus, the schedule is super convenient for busy parents, and it is 100% worth the value. Highly recommend!

Raya Johns

15:54 01 Mar 26

I am constantly amazed by the kindness and dedication Actions Karate Manayunk shows to their students.
The instructors are out of this world when it comes to helping families gain the skills we come for.

The leadership skill and qualities the kids learn in class are gunna last a lifetime! I can't recommend them more!!

Alexandra Magdelinskas

15:48 01 Mar 26

Miss Taura and Mr. C are truly such incredible influences on my family! 🥋✨ From the very first day we walked into Action Karate Manayunk, we felt welcomed, supported, and encouraged. The positivity, structure, and life lessons they pour into every class go so far beyond just martial arts. 💛

They lead with patience, confidence, and genuine care for each student. You can tell they are passionate about what they do and truly invested in helping every child grow—not just in skill, but in character. The confidence, focus, and respect my family has gained since being part of this community has been amazing to see. 🌟

Action Karate Manayunk isn’t just a martial arts school — it’s a family. 🫶 We are so grateful to be part of such a supportive, empowering environment. Thank you, Miss Taura and Mr. C, for everything you do every single day! 🙌🥋

julia stokes

21:04 26 Jan 26

Action Karate has been amazing for my kids, Stormy and August. From the very first class, they felt welcomed and excited to be there. The instructors are patient, positive, and really know how to connect with kids while keeping them focused and engaged. I’ve seen such a big improvement in their confidence, listening skills, discipline, and respect, both in and out of class. They’re learning important life skills while staying active and having fun—and they actually look forward to going every week. As a parent, it’s awesome to see them grow, challenge themselves, and be part of such a supportive community.

Michelle Fean

23:21 23 Oct 25

My son did Action karate for a little over a year when he was 5 and then we took a break but he asked to go back to it this year and he has been doing so well! He enjoys going and asks when his next class is. He asked to go to their day camp when school was out and had so much fun! It happened to be the day before his birthday and one of the teachers stopped at our house and put a birthday sign in the front yard. He was over the moon. He feels the love when he walks in and that is amazing.

Try 3 Classes — $49

1-on-1 intro session · 2 group classes · Free uniform · Money-back guarantee

Reserve My 3 Classes

No commitment. Limited spots available!

Your Instructors

Meet the Team

Choosing a martial arts school is about more than the curriculum. Here’s why Manayunk families train with us.

John Cardinale

5th Degree Black Belt

15 years of experience

Master

Master John Cardinale has been training and teaching martial arts for 15 years, seven of them right here at Action Karate Manayunk. A 5th Degree Black Belt, he came to... View instructor's bio

Our Story

Built for This Neighborhood. Committed to These Kids.

Action Karate Manayunk has been part of the Roxborough and Manayunk community since 2017. We sit on the corner of Silverwood and Fountain Street, a short walk from Main Street and just down the road from Ridge Ave. Over the years we’ve become a place that local families come back to, again and again, because the results are real and the environment feels like home.

0 +

Active students

0 +

Community Partners

0 school

Districts served

Every class at Action Karate Manayunk runs on structure and repetition. Kids learn that showing up and putting in the work actually produces results. That lesson goes far beyond the mat.

Belt promotions aren’t handed out. They’re earned. When your child holds up that next belt, they know exactly what it took to get there. And so do you.

With a maximum of 27 students per class, our instructors know every name, every strength, and every area where a child needs a little more support. That’s not possible in a gym of 100.

The fastest way to build discipline in a child is to make them actually want to come back. Classes at Action Karate Manayunk are challenging and engaging in equal measure. Kids leave tired, happy, and already asking when the next class is.

I was inspired to become a martial arts instructor because I saw firsthand how much martial arts can change someone’s life beyond just the physical skills.Martial arts teaches confidence, discipline, respect, leadership, and perseverance in a way that carries over into every part of life. I realized pretty quickly that this was bigger than just punches and kicks. It helps people believe in themselves, push past their limits, and grow into stronger versions of who they are.

— Master John Cardinale, 5th Degree Black Belt

Try 3 Classes — $49

1-on-1 intro session · 2 group classes · Free uniform · Money-back guarantee

Reserve My 3 Classes

No commitment. Limited spots available!

Find Us

We're Easy to Find, and Even Easier to Love

Action Karate Manayunk is located on the corner of Silverwood and Fountain Street, within easy reach of Main Street Manayunk and just down from Ridge Ave. We’re a neighborhood school in a neighborhood that takes its community seriously.

Main Street Manayunk

Ridge Avenue

Roxborough High School

Hillside

Dobson Elementary

Cook-Wissahickon School

Immaculate Heart of Mary

Greenwoods Charter School

Shawmont School

If your family lives in Manayunk, Roxborough, Andorra, or anywhere in the northwest Philadelphia corridor, Action Karate is close by and ready to welcome your child. Families regularly make the short drive from Wissahickon, East Falls, and the surrounding neighborhoods because there’s nothing else quite like it in this part of the city.

Community & Partners

Our Role in the Community

Action Karate Manayunk doesn’t just operate in this neighborhood. We’re part of it. We train kids from local schools, partner with organizations that share our values, and show up for the community that has shown up for us.

What’s On

Upcoming Events & Programs

From school workshops to summer camp programs — we’re out in the community every week.

FAQ

FAQs Got Questions? We've Got Answers. Here are the things Manayunk families ask us most.

What is the style of martial arts that you teach?

At Action Karate Manayunk, we teach Tang Soo Do — a Korean martial art that builds real discipline, physical confidence, and the kind of character shift that shows up off the mat just as much as on it. Lead instructor Master John Cardinale is a 5th Degree Black Belt with 15 years in the martial arts and 7 years at Action Karate. His focus is on the long transformation — watching students arrive carrying stress or self-doubt and leave as people who genuinely believe in themselves. That philosophy drives every class here. And the results have been recognised: Action Karate Manayunk has been voted Best Martial Arts School in Philadelphia.

When can I attend classes at Action Karate Manayunk?

We run classes across the week for families from Roxborough, Wissahickon, Manayunk, and the surrounding neighbourhoods. Use the form on this page to get the current schedule sent to you.

What should I wear to my first class?

Keep it casual. For your first session at Action Karate Manayunk, comfortable clothing you can move in is all you need. Your uniform (gi) is included in the $49 intro offer. Bare feet on the mat, no shoes required.

Who are the classes suitable for?

Manayunk runs programmes from age 3 through to adults, serving families from Dobson, Cook-Wissahickon, Immaculate Heart of Mary, Greenwoods Charter School, and Shawmont. Community partners include the YMCA, Hillside Rec Center, Friends of Pretzel Park, Bala House Montessori, Sweet Dreams Daycare, and Roxborough and Andorra Public Libraries. Adults are particularly welcome here — Master Cardinale's belief that the mat is one of the best places for adults to rebuild confidence runs through how adult classes are structured and taught.

Where is Action Karate Manayunk located, and is there parking?

We're on the corner of Silverwood and Fountain Street in Manayunk, down the street from Ridge Avenue and close to Roxborough High School. Main Street is nearby.

Have more questions? Get in Touch

Learn More about Our Programs

Adult Martial Arts Classes

Kids Martial Arts Classes

Ninja Sharks Ages 3 to 6 Classes

Special Needs Martial Arts Classes

Karate Birthday Parties

Philadelphia's Martial Arts School That Builds More Than Black Belts

A Class for Every Kid. A Reason for Every Parent

Adult Martial Arts Classes

Kids Martial Arts Classes

Ninja Sharks Ages 3 to 6 Classes

Special Needs Martial Arts Classes

Birthday Parties

Philadelphia Voted Us the Best. Your Neighbors Already Know Why

Your child will learn to regulate themselves, not just their kicks

Every instructor is background-checked and safety-certified

The community around your child matters as much as the curriculum

A Proper Training Environment, Right in the Heart of Manayunk

Meet the Team

John Cardinale

Built for This Neighborhood. Committed to These Kids.

We're Easy to Find, and Even Easier to Love

Our Role in the Community

YMCA

Hillside Rec Center

Friends of Pretzel Park

Les Petits Cherubs Daycare

Bala House Montessori School

Shawmont School:

Sweet Dreams Daycare

Cook-Wissahickon School

Roxborough Public Library

Andorra Public Library

Upcoming Events & Programs

FAQs Got Questions? We've Got Answers. Here are the things Manayunk families ask us most.

Learn More about Our Programs

Join Our Martial Arts Classes