Whether your child is three years old and still learning to share, or you’re an adult looking to get stronger and more focused, Action Karate North Wales has a class built for exactly where you are right now. We welcome every ability, every background, every family.

Adult Martial Arts Classes

You don’t need a background in martial arts to start, just the decision to show up. Our adult program blends fitness, self-defense, and real mental discipline. You’ll build strength, stress relief, and confidence that carries into every part of your life. A lot of our adult students start for the exercise. They stay for how it makes them feel.

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Kids Martial Arts Classes

Our Kids’ Martial Arts Classes are where the life skills really take hold. Kids learn focus, respect, self-discipline, and how to handle hard things without giving up. Parents tell us the changes they see at home: listening the first time, better attitudes at school, a little more patience are worth every drive to class.

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Ninja Sharks Ages 3 to 6 Classes

Our Ninja Sharks program is designed for the big personalities in the tiniest bodies. At this age, it’s all about movement, listening, and building early confidence in a structured, encouraging environment. Your toddler will learn how to follow directions, take turns, and feel genuinely proud of themselves all while having a blast.

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Special Needs Martial Arts Classes

Action Karate North Wales is one of the most inclusive martial arts schools in Montgomery County. Our lead instructor, Master Felicia Cohen Nichols, believes everyone has the ability to learn martial arts and has built a teaching approach rooted in patience, adaptability, and listening to what each student actually needs. Whether your child is on the spectrum or has physical differences, we find a way to make martial arts work for them. We’ve been featured in North Penn Now for exactly this work.

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Birthday Parties

Give your child a birthday they’ll be talking about for months. Our Action Karate birthday parties combine high-energy martial arts fun with the structure and safety parents love. We handle the activity, you bring the cake. It’s the perfect celebration for kids who love to move.

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

Why Action Karate

More Than a Martial Arts School. This Is Where Character Gets Built.

At Action Karate North Wales, the kicks and blocks are just the beginning. What we’re really teaching, what change parents see at home, are the life skills that matter everywhere. We don’t just teach martial arts. We develop the habits, mindset, and resilience that will serve your child for the rest of their life.

Real life skills, not just belt ranks

We teach leadership, positive self-talk, public speaking, focus, and self-control alongside every punch and kick. Students don't just earn belts. They grow into kids who raise their hand in class, stand up for others, and come home with a better attitude.

An inclusive school that welcomes every student

From Ninja Sharks to adults, from neurotypical students to those with additional needs, our school truly caters to everyone. Our instructors adapt, listen, and grow alongside their students because we believe there is a black belt inside every person who walks through our doors.

A family atmosphere you'll feel on day one

We're not a drop-off activity. At Action Karate North Wales, families train together, celebrate together, and show up for each other. Parents join our BBQs, beach days, and 5Ks. Siblings train side by side. The family that kicks together sticks together.

Our Space

A Training Environment Built for Every Body

Our 3,400 sq ft facility in North Wales is designed to feel welcoming the moment you step in: clean, safe, and built for real training.

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Action Karate North Wales

4.9

Based on 110 reviews

review us on

L Carr

13:32 08 May 26

Our son has trained here for several years and is currently working toward his black belt. The instructors do an amazing job encouraging the students to work hard while still making classes fun and motivating.

Nathan Platt

18:38 07 May 26

In January 2024, I began my journey as a student at Action Karate in North Wales. After watching my daughters enjoy their classes since 2023, I decided to take advantage of a free trial month. What I initially expected to be a simple supplement to my running routine has evolved into something far more significant; joining this school remains one of my best decisions.

Starting with no prior martial arts experience, my progress has been truly eye-opening, especially when I look back at videos of my very first class. While learning new techniques and katas is a lot of fun, the path hasn't always been easy. I faced setbacks, such as failing certain katas more than five times before finally succeeding. However, these challenges helped me cultivate a mindset of grit and determination that has proven invaluable, even helping to reduce my stress levels at work.

Advancing through the belt levels has been a rewarding challenge, and I am incredibly grateful for my time at Action. As I look toward the next phase of my training, I am eager to continue growing as a martial artist alongside the instructors and friends I've made. Most of all, I look forward to the journey ahead with my daughters, embracing the idea that a family that trains together, stays together!

Vilmaris Rodríguez

02:15 10 May 25

My Name is Edward Culbreath, and I am posting my review for the Action Karate North Wales program. My daughter Mia has been a member/student there for approximately five years. During this period, I observed Mia become molded into a caring and compassionate individual that me and my wife are proud of. I would like to acknowledge and credit Mr. Nichols and his staff for playing a big part in my daughter’s mental growth as a person. At Action Karate North Wales, I love how the staff is always telling the students about the inspirational stories of personal triumph and tribulations of famous people and how dealing with failure will only serve to make you a better and stronger person. Mr. Nichols and his staff are always pounding into the students’ heads about not being a bully, doing their homework as soon as they walk through the door and doing their chores around the house. At Action Karate North Wales their doors are open to any child or adult no matter what their physical or mental limitations are. The longer Mia stayed enrolled in Action Karate I became less concerned about Mia’s ability to defend herself but more concerned with the individual she is being shaped into. Action Karate provides a caring and nurturing environment because the older and more advanced students lead by example and provide support to the younger student which serves as a confidence booster. I would strongly recommend Action Karate to any parent looking for an outlet to get their children involved in.

Sincerely,

Culbreath family

Cindy Bacon

21:34 08 May 25

Action Karate instructors have helped my son to be more confident. He began classes when he was six years old and struggled with increasing anxiety. His instructors have been patient and kind to him, allowing him to go at his own pace, and over time it has helped him to develop into a confident kiddo. At first, it was a struggle for him to even get out on the mat. Now, he is testing for his black belt and I couldn't be more proud of him or thankful for his dedicated instructors.

Ann Sabo

14:39 05 May 25

We love Action Karate North Wales! The instructors are knowledgeable, professional, and truly passionate about teaching martial arts. They create a supportive environment that balances discipline with fun, making it a great fit for our son.

Our child has grown so much since he started karate. He is not your traditional athlete, but practice, training, and support from Action Karate has helped him find and excel in the sport of karate. He has gained not only physical strength and coordination but also confidence, respect, and focus from the training at Action Karate North Wales.

We love the flexible times to select classes so you can make at least 2 sessions a week. The class sizes are great and there are lead instructors and supporting instructors so every student gets attention and feedback to continue to grow o n their martial arts journey. Action Karate North Wales also does many events to build a sense of community outside of training. There are movie nights, assorted holiday activities (trunk or treat, visit from the Grinch), parent nights, camps, and more!

We highly recommend Action Karate.

Kristina Super

17:37 30 Sep 23

Action Karate has been a wonderful place for our son Nicholas to learn and grow. Nicholas started in Feb. 2021 at 6 years old in Ninja Sharks and is now going to be testing for his Jr. Black Belt in December at only 9 years old! He likes organized sports, but having an activity that he has to rely on himself has been important to his growth as a child.

Mr. Nichols, Ms. Felicia, and Ms. Rochelle have had such an impact on Nicholas. He is attentive and positive in school, gets excellent grades, is a friend to all his classmates. And at karate he has grown to be a leader with the young Ninja Sharks, is now an apprentice on the Jr. Demo team, and is excited to next test for his Jr. Black Belt! And not even at the top of the list, but his physical fitness is incredible as a bonus point!

His increase in confidence has been extremely noticeable, a once shy child now goes to tournament and comes home with medals, trophies, and awesome memories! We cannot wait to see where Action Karate takes him in the future! I 100% recommend any family with a child who is not sure what they want to do, to take them and try out Action Karate North Wales. They typically have specials for the kids to try it out a couple weeks before you commit!

Lisa Loewen

11:39 29 Jul 22

AK North Wales is not only a place to learn karate, develop confidence & discipline, and make friends, but a place where those friends become family. They are an amazing and active part of the North Wales community and have been an integral part of supporting those in need, encouraging each & every team member, & raising up a new generation of leaders. It's just such a stellar group of people and a great place to be.

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

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Your Instructors

Meet the Team

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

Shawn Nichols

3rd Degree Black Belt

28 years of experience

Mr. Shawn Nichols

Before stepping onto the mat as an instructor, Shawn Nichols served his country as a United States Marine, earning a brown belt through the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program. He... View instructor's bio

Felicia Cohen Nichols

5th Degree Black Belt

32 years of experience

Master

Master Felicia Cohen Nichols has been part of the Action Karate family for over 20 years and her roots go even deeper than that. She first stepped onto the mat... View instructor's bio

Our Story

A Community School, 15 Years in the Making

Action Karate North Wales opened its doors in 2011 with a straightforward mission: build a martial arts school where every student and every family belongs. Fifteen years later, that mission hasn’t changed. What has changed is the size of our community, the depth of our partnerships across North Wales and Lansdale Borough, and the number of students who’ve walked out of this building with stronger posture, better focus, and a confidence that surprises even them.

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Our senior demo team has taken first place in their division at the Action Karate Invitational and our students compete with poise, sportsmanship, and the confidence that comes from serious preparation.

We’ve earned local magazine awards including Best Of and Most Loved, and have been featured in North Penn Now for our inclusive programming and community impact.

From raising funds for breast cancer awareness and the Special Olympics of Pennsylvania, to collecting food for Manna on Main Street over the holidays, to organizing our annual Kick-a-Thon for the Action Scholarship Fund, our students don’t just learn about upstanding, they practice it.

In 2025, North Penn Now covered our work with students of additional needs, shining a light on how martial arts transforms lives far beyond the mat. We’re proud of that story and the dozens of students behind it.

I use martial arts to help others realize their full leadership potential, not just leading others, but leading themselves by constant and never ending improvement.

— Mr Shawn Nichols, 3rd 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

Serving North Wales, Lansdale, and the Greater Montgomery County Area

We’re easy to find and even easier to love. Whether you’re grabbing a bagel at Everything Bagel down the road, picking up shoes at The Runner’s Store, or grabbing a quick bite at TexMex, Action Karate North Wales is right in the neighborhood.

Everything Bagel

The Runner’s Store

TexMex

Gwyn-Nor Elementary School

North Wales Elementary School

Gwynedd Square Elementary School

Stoney Creek Elementary School

Lower Gwynedd Elementary School

Pennbrook Middle School

Montgomery Elementary School

Families from across the North Penn School District trust Action Karate North Wales as their go-to after-school program. We proudly serve students from North Wales Elementary School, Gwyn-Nor Elementary School, Gwynedd Square Elementary School, Stoney Creek Elementary School, Lower Gwynedd Elementary School, Pennbrook Middle School, and Montgomery Elementary School. If your child attends school in North Wales, Lansdale, or Lower Gwynedd, we’re right here, and we’d love to meet them.

Community & Partners

Our Role in the Community

Action Karate North Wales doesn’t just teach inside four walls. We show up at the 4th of July Parade, at the North Wales Library, at the Healthy Kids Running Series, and at the school events where our families are. We believe that being part of this community means being present in it.

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 North Wales families ask us most.

What is the style of martial arts that you teach?

At Action Karate North Wales, we teach Tang Soo Do — and this school's philosophy is straightforward: martial arts is for everyone. The programme is led by Master Felicia Cohen Nichols, a 5th Degree Black Belt with 20 years at Action Karate and 32 years in the martial arts. Master Nichols teaches with patience, adaptability, and a genuine openness to every kind of learner — including students with physical differences, additional needs, or non-standard learning profiles. She's worked with students with two prosthetic legs, students on the spectrum, and students in every possible situation, and she finds a way to make the curriculum work for them. The school was also recognised in North Penn Now for its work with students with additional needs.

When can I attend classes at Action Karate North Wales?

We run classes across the week for families in North Wales and the surrounding area. Use the form on this page to get the current schedule.

What should I wear to my first class?

Just come as you are for your first session at Action Karate North Wales. 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?

North Wales runs programmes from age 3 through to adults. This school has a particularly strong track record with students who have additional needs — it's been featured in local press for exactly that. The school has also raised funds for breast cancer awareness, Special Olympics of Pennsylvania, and collected food for Manna on Main Street, and is currently preparing for the Kick-a-Thon which raises funds for martial artists in need across the country.

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

Where North Wales Families Build Kids Who Surprise Themselves

A Program for Every Student, Whatever They're Starting With

Adult Martial Arts Classes

Kids Martial Arts Classes

Ninja Sharks Ages 3 to 6 Classes

Special Needs Martial Arts Classes

Birthday Parties

More Than a Martial Arts School. This Is Where Character Gets Built.

Real life skills, not just belt ranks

An inclusive school that welcomes every student

A family atmosphere you'll feel on day one

A Training Environment Built for Every Body

Meet the Team

Shawn Nichols

Felicia Cohen Nichols

A Community School, 15 Years in the Making

Serving North Wales, Lansdale, and the Greater Montgomery County Area

Our Role in the Community

Healthy Kids Running Series

North Wales Borough & Lansdale Borough:

North Wales Library

The Malvern School, Children of America, Chesterbrook Academy, KinderCare, Guidepost Montessori, The Learning Experience, Play and Learn, Celebree School:

Mater Dei & Montgomery Elementary School:

Manna on Main Street:

Special Olympics of Pennsylvania:

Action Scholarship Fund (National Kick-a-Thon):

Upcoming Events & Programs

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

Learn More about Our Programs

Join Our Martial Arts Classes