From the first tentative step onto the mat to the moment a student earns their Black Belt, every program at Action Karate River Hills Plaza is built around one idea: your child should leave class feeling more capable than when they walked in. Whether your 3-year-old needs a confidence boost or your teen is ready for a real challenge, we have a class built for exactly where they are right now.

Adult Martial Arts Classes

Stress, long hours, and a schedule that leaves no room for yourself. Our adult classes give you an hour that belongs entirely to you. Build strength, sharpen focus, and learn real self-defense skills in a welcoming environment where nobody’s judging your starting point.

Try 3 Classes $49

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Kids Martial Arts Classes

More than kicks and blocks, our kids’ classes teach listening, respect, and the kind of perseverance that shows up in homework, friendships, and report cards. Structured, fun, and taught by background-checked instructors who genuinely care.

Try 3 Classes $49

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Ninja Sharks Ages 3 to 6 Classes

Big energy, small humans, and a whole lot of “I did it!” moments. Ninja Sharks is designed specifically for the 3–6 age group, building coordination, listening skills, and early confidence. We do this through movement, games, and guided instruction that feels more like play than school.

Try 3 Classes $49

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Special Needs Martial Arts Classes

Every child deserves to feel capable on the mat. Our instructors are trained to adapt their teaching to meet students where they are, creating an inclusive environment where progress is celebrated at every level, on every timeline.

Try 3 Classes $49

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Birthday Parties

Skip the bounce house this year. Action Karate birthday parties are high-energy, parent-approved, and genuinely unforgettable. Kids get to train like martial artists, and you get a stress-free celebration you didn’t have to host at your house.

Make it a birthday they’ll never forget. Let us host a high-energy, action-packed party that’s as stress-free for you as it is exciting for them.

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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

What Makes Action Karate the Right Choice for Your Family

Choosing an after-school activity isn’t just about filling a time slot. It’s about who’s teaching your child and what they’re actually learning. Here’s why Valrico families keep choosing us.

Real Skills That Transfer Off the Mat

The discipline a child builds here through showing up, trying again, and respecting others doesn't stay in the dojo. Parents regularly tell us they notice a difference at the dinner table, in the classroom, and during homework time within the first few weeks.

Instructors Who Are Background-Checked, Certified, and Actually Good with Kids

Every instructor at River Hills Plaza is safety-certified, CPR trained, and chosen because they know how to connect with young people and not just teach technique. Your child won't be handed off to someone who's just going through the motions.

A Track Record the Community Recognizes

We've been recognized as People's Choice 2025, honored by the Tampa Bay Times, and earned silver distinction two years running. Twenty-five of our students have earned their Black Belts. That doesn't happen by accident. It happens when a school holds students to a standard and supports them every step of the way.

Our Space

The River Hills Plaza Training Facility

A dedicated space designed so every student has room to move, focus, and grow. With 2,000 square feet of mat and a maximum class size of 28, it means your child never gets lost in the crowd.

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Action Karate River Hills Plaza

5.0

Based on 55 reviews

review us on

Jessica Fetters

21:59 22 Aug 25

I've had an amazing experience at Action Karate! Mr. K is incredibly passionate, professional, and truly care about each student's growth—both physically and mentally. The classes are well-structured, fun, and empowering. The sense of community here is also fantastic—everyone is welcoming and supportive. I highly recommend Action Karate to anyone looking for a positive and enriching martial arts program!

Melanie Hood

22:25 22 Jul 25

Mr. K pours his heart into these kids. He not only teaches them the physical part of karate but he also gives them life lessons too. Today he said something that really struck me. He told the kids that self discipline means they are in control. I had never heard it put that way! Mr. K opens kids eyes to opportunities within their reach. And that's what makes this place a great place to be! We are very grateful for Mr K! He is great support.

Izzy

21:44 25 Jun 24

Action Karate River Hills does a phenomenal job with their students. They provide an atmosphere supporting students in achieving confidence, leadership skills, character development through their self-defense program. Feedback and support consistently provided. It’s a great community supporting families.

Alena Alekseichenko

22:30 01 May 24

Our journey with Action Karate has been nothing short of exceptional. Two years ago, my daughter embarked on her martial arts adventure, a decision driven solely by her curiosity and desire. Walking into that small room on her first day, I had no expectations, having never delved into the world of martial arts myself.

From the moment we stepped in, Mr. K, our coach, made an unforgettable impression. Despite the humble beginnings of the classes, his passion and dedication shone through. It didn't take long for my daughter to develop a deep love for karate under his guidance. With each lesson, her skills flourished, progressing month by month.

What truly sets Action Karate apart is their personalized approach to teaching. Mr. K has an innate ability to tailor his instruction to each student, ensuring that every individual reaches their full potential. Beyond the regular classes, the they offer a plethora of engaging activities, from Halloween trunk and treat events to glow parties and painting classes. This creative flair, spearheaded by Mr. K and Mrs. G, fosters a sense of community and belonging.

Our time at Action Karate transcended the boundaries of a typical extracurricular activity. Spending five days a week immersed in this environment, we felt like an integral part of the family. For anyone seeking karate classes that prioritize deep learning and understanding of the martial arts process, I wholeheartedly recommend Action Karate. It's not just a place to learn karate; it's a place to grow, thrive, and belong.

Kelly Anderson

20:04 27 Mar 24

My grandson loves coming here! He is 6 and joined the little ninjas group. Since we have joined I feel his focus has improved as well as balance because of the great exercises. Every class is different and very planned out with a purpose. Lots of things to wear him out after a long day at school to release energy. Thank you Action Karate for being so awesome!

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 Bethlehem families train with us.

Mary Baision

Purple

3 years of experience

Instructor

Mary came to Action Karate the same way many parents do: she brought her four-year-old son through the door because he needed help with focus, coordination, and social skills. What... View instructor's bio

Our Story

Rooted in Community, Driven by Purpose

Since opening our doors in 2022, Action Karate River Hills Plaza has grown into something bigger than a martial arts school. We’re a family-owned school and that means something here. We know our students by name. We know which ones need a little extra encouragement on hard days, and which ones are ready to be pushed. We show up for the Valrico community because this is our community too.

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The student who used to freeze during class presentations now raises their hand first. We hear this from parents constantly and it starts on the mat.

Every belt earned is a lesson in delayed gratification. Students learn that effort compounds and that showing up, even when it’s hard, is itself a skill worth mastering.

Earning a Black Belt at Action Karate River Hills Plaza means passing a standard that doesn’t bend. Our graduates carry that achievement with them for life.

People’s Choice 2025. Tampa Bay Times recognized. Best of the Best. These aren’t marketing badges. They’re proof that families in this area trust us with the people they love most.

Martial arts helped shape my confidence, discipline, and mindset growing up, and I wanted to be able to pass that on and make that same impact on my students.

— Instructor Casey Heimbach, 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

Located in the Heart of River Hills Plaza, Valrico

Easy to find, easy to get to and right in the middle of where Valrico families already spend their week.

Next to The Landing Restaurant

River Hills Plaza

Valrico

FL 33596

Lithia Springs Elementary

Pinecrest Elementary

Cimino Elementary

Nelson Elementary

Randall Middle School

Barrington Middle School

Mulrennan Middle School

Families from Lithia Springs, Pinecrest, Cimino, and Nelson Elementary, along with middle schoolers from Randall, Barrington, and Mulrennan, train with us right here in Valrico. If you’re in Brandon, Lithia, or the greater Hillsborough County area and looking for a martial arts school your kids will actually want to go to, we’re right next door to The Landing Restaurant in River Hills Plaza.

Community & Partners

Our Role in the Community

Action Karate River Hills Plaza is more than a place where kids learn to kick. It’s a place where families come together. As a family-owned school, we take our role in Valrico seriously. That means showing up for anti-bullying workshops at local schools, hosting character development programs, and creating events that bring the whole family into the dojo.

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 River Hills Plaza families ask us most.

What is the style of martial arts that you teach?

At Action Karate Valrico, we teach Tang Soo Do — in the heart of the River Hills Plaza community in Hillsborough County. The school has been building its reputation in Valrico for several years and has the awards to show for it: People's Choice 2025, Best of the Best, Tampa Bay Times recognition, and a Silver Award winner two years running. Twenty-five students have earned their black belts here.

When can I attend classes at Action Karate Valrico?

We run classes throughout the week for families in Valrico, Brandon, and the surrounding Hillsborough County area. Use the form on this page to get the current schedule sent straight to you.

What should I wear to my first class?

Nothing special needed on your first visit to Action Karate Valrico. Comfortable clothing you can move in is all that's required. Your uniform (gi) is included in the $49 intro offer. Bare feet on the mat, no shoes required.

Who are the classes suitable for?

Who are the classes suitable for? Valrico runs programmes from age 3 through to adults, serving families from Lithia Springs Elementary, Pinecrest Elementary, Cimino Elementary, Nelson Elementary, Randall Middle School, Barrington Middle School, and Mulrennan Middle School. Twenty-five students have earned black belts here, and the school has been consistently recognised as one of the best in the Tampa Bay area.

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

We're in River Hills Plaza in Valrico, right next to The Landing Restaurant.

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

Valrico's Award-Winning Martial Arts School for Kids and Families

Classes for Every Age, Goal, and Comfort Level

Adult Martial Arts Classes

Kids Martial Arts Classes

Ninja Sharks Ages 3 to 6 Classes

Special Needs Martial Arts Classes

Birthday Parties

What Makes Action Karate the Right Choice for Your Family

Real Skills That Transfer Off the Mat

Instructors Who Are Background-Checked, Certified, and Actually Good with Kids

A Track Record the Community Recognizes

The River Hills Plaza Training Facility

Meet the Team

Mary Baision

Rooted in Community, Driven by Purpose

Located in the Heart of River Hills Plaza, Valrico

Our Role in the Community

Willam Penn Elementary

Thomas Jefferson Elementary

Fountain Hill Elementary

Lincoln Elementary

Spring Garden Elementary

Governor Wolf Elementary

Casa Guadalupe Education Center

Upcoming Events & Programs

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

Learn More about Our Programs

Join Our Martial Arts Classes