I have used this dojo for years and am very happy with how Sensei Gary teaches and conducts his training. He is without a doubt an excellent instructor. I can recommend Potomac Kempo in Kingstowne to anyone looking for a good workout and a rewarding experience.

This dojo is outstanding for training and learning. Sensei Gary always assures I have a training partner and takes time to explain what he is teaching. His training sessions are designed to motivate me to do more than I think I can, but never to complete exhaustion. He is always willing to personally demonstrate complicated moves and allow me to practice them until both he and I are satisfied I have enough confidence to do them on my own. Sensei Gary's training sessions are both fun and educational and I look forward to every session. They are one of the highlights of my week.

Great dojo with an excellent Sensei and folks who truly care to see each person succeed.

The best kempo dojo. Gary and his staff have helped raise three of our children into respectable successful young adults, ready to face any of life's challenges and humbly enjoy life’s brightest moments. The combination of fitness, purposeful movement, and high level thought taught in the PK classes are lessons applicable in every facet of adult life. Lifelong friendship and confidence were built over the course of our nineteen year relationship with this fine institution.

Have you ever wondered what if? Only to walk past and never take the opportunity to answer the question? 20 years ago I studied Shoalin Kempo Karate from a different branch in WI. We moved due to a career shift and I stopped my studies Recently we moved into this area and lo and behold I found this place and couldn't resist at least poking my head in. Glad we made the stop. This isn't a belt factory. The instructors are approachable and well adept. This is not simply a dojo but a true community of practitioners who look to improve everyday. Don't walk by this door without seeing it for yourself.

Potomac Kempo - Kingstowne is a Dojo for martial artists. Led by experienced and compassionate instructors, men, women, and children can all benefit from education about the human body, mind, and spirit. One of five locations of Potomac Kempo in Alexandria, Virginia, it is located within a shopping complex. Other Dojos associated with this school are in Huntington, Old Towne, Fairlington, and National Landing. Distance learning available through internet connections. A student-centered, individual lesson-focused school with group classes available for people of all ages and martial backgrounds. No experience needed, just a love for learning, integrity, and service.

Natasha is such a good coach

My daughter and I are both taking the classes and lessons here at the Kingstowne location. It’s something we can do together or separate and we both enjoy it! My daughter even says, “It’s just like playing for awhile and you get to learn too!” I don’t like to work out but Kempo has changed that perspective. It’s a great way to learn the art and connect with yourself and meet your exercise goals. Best decision I made for my daughter and myself.

Potomac Kempo - Kingstowne is my favorite place to be. I get home tired from a long days work and still get excited and energized on the evenings I have class. I am learning a lot about myself and learning to protect myself. I am grateful to have found this new practice and home. Oh and the kids classes are so cute. Check it out

Gary and Potomac Kempo took such great care of my grandchildren. Now that they’ve all graduated, and I am proud of the upstanding young men they’ve become, I know I can trace this back to Gary and PK. From seeing their glee when they emerged from belt tests, watching them work to master difficult forms, and the respect for the dojo space, and our flag, PK has given them life lessons that will help them succeed . I am forever grateful to Gary and all the folks at PK . Kindest -

I went to few dojos before I came here over two years ago. I must say that I was sold on the fact of the spirit of Sensei Gary and other students. Great atmosphere where everyone helps each other to become not only a skilled martial artist but also build true interpersonal skills too. Love the Potomac Kempo family throughout all four locations. Great place for kids and adults.

Sensei Gary and Potomac Kempo have been instrumental in developing my son’s confidence and leadership skills for years. We relocated to Fairfax and still drive every week to give our son this experience. We’ve always found that there was complete transparency on pricing and expectations of what is needed. There are plenty of extra opportunities such as a tournament, specialty seminars, and even an amazing summer camp focused on learning about different cultures.The tournament is a great example of how they encourage progress and self-confidence. Students can choose to participate and they are awarded by skill and earning it. Nothing is given out here, but there is plenty of recognition and advancement to keep the kids motivated. If you're looking for an automatic black-belt this is not for you, but if you want your kids to earn it over years of hard work then join.I will also say that this is run with expectations and they hold the kids to those rules, such as not leaning against the walls, saying “yes sir/ma’am” and being in proper uniform. They don’t overdo it but reinforce good behavior. They also have fun events and let the kids serve as leaders as they grow. It’s expected to help those who are junior in rank and learning.If you want cheap, this isn’t for you. If you want caring, dedicated, transparent teaching to build your kids in confidence, then invest in this place. It’s simply amazing.

Sensei Gary and his team do an amazing job! Potomac Kempo - Kingstowne's team of instructors are all committed, professional, kind, and knowledgeable. My son has been taking martial arts classes at this Dojo for over 6 years and he simply loves it there and looks forward to every class. It is apparent that he has developed a strong sense of belonging and is committed to continuous learning.Potomac Kempo provides much more than martial arts training. It provides structure and stability that can be so helpful toward personal growth. I have no doubt that these classes have helped tremendously with my son’s development, and I credit Potomac Kempo with helping him to develop a strong moral compass, greater self-discipline, strong conflict resolution skills, and a high degree of empathy and respect for others.I have no reservation in recommending Potomac Kempo.

Absolutely wonderful group of people. Very proficient in their art and great teachers.

My 4 now 5 year old was showing interest in martial arts. After researching different options in the area and speaking to Sensei Gary, I decided on this dojo. My son is thriving, growing, and learning with each class. He looks forward to working with Joshua and Sensei Gary. After only a few months I see a difference in his discipline and focus. Highly recommend!

Upon Moving to VA a goal of ours was to make sure our son got an excellent start in Martial Arts. Went on the hunt for a school that we believed would provide the right foundation for our son, one where the dojo was welcoming and harmonious.we literally looked at 5 different dojos before checking out Potomac Kempo, and from the moment we walked in, we knew. This is where our son needed to be, he absolutely loves going to training. The Sensei and instructors are professional and always willing to answer questions. If you are looking for a place for your child and or for yourself to improve, grow stronger, be more focused and achieve goals. Potomac Kempo is the Dojo for you.

We joined Potomac Kempo Kingstowne this past summer for our son. Sensei Gary and Mr. Kai have been amazing! They always make learning fun. Recently we have been virtual lesson due to social distancing and our son gets so excited when it’s time for Kempo! Just because we can’t be in the dojo doesn’t mean we still can’t learn! Thank you Potomac Kempo for bringing some normalcy to this crazy time.

This place is so awesome for your kids

Challenging and supportive environment with standardized instruction. I appreciate the rigor and insight to advantageous body mechanics. Plus, it is fun! This is everything I sought in martial arts instruction. Thanks, team.

I worked with this dojo for nearly a decade; honing my body and mind to become the best version of myself, and always felt encouraged and respected by the staff.

Highly professional and dedicated instructors! Our son is making great progress with Sensei Gary. He's the best!!! We are glad we found Potomac Kempo! 🙂

Superb and varied martial arts instruction incorporating karate, Kung fu, taekwondo, Kali, other weapons forms and best of all, a combination of personalized training and a supportive energetic community of all ages and backgrounds. Highly recommend this dojo for fitness, friendship, self defense and confidence - and fun!

Sensei Gary is an amazing teacher. He builds lovely life lessons into the class. My daughter loves class and is thriving.

The decision to join Kempo Karate marks the beginning of a profound personal journey for me. By setting clear short-term and long-term goals, I seek to transform myself physically, mentally, and spiritually. Through the practice of Kempo Karate, I aim to cultivate discipline, resilience, and a sense of community, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding and embodiment of the art. This journey is not merely about mastering techniques; it is about becoming a better version of myself.Kempo Karate will help change your life.

Potomac Kempo has been such a positive experience for my 10 yo! In addition to katas, she has learned confidence and discipline that will last a lifetime. Sensei Gary and the teachers at Kingstowne are amazing!

A wonderful studio, with passionate instructors, who create a family environment. This was our first journey into martial arts for our 5 year old, and I’m so grateful we found this dojo.

Excellent martial arts for kids and adults alike. My kid love it and have seen his grow both physically and mentally. The instructors are great with kids and Sensei Gary is the best!

Highly recommend Potomac Kempo at Kingstowne and Sensei Gary. My almost 7 year old who is very high energy and easily distracted took a recent interest watching karate cartoons. I came in with low expectations, given previous attempts to try any kind of sporting activities that led to frustration, and plain refusal. I am so impressed by Sensei Gary’s patience and ability to connect at his level. He has created a very inclusive environment at the Dojo, and let him learn at his own pace. The environment is very family friendly and in just a few sessions he has learned to follow a few basic directions. He is still impulsive, but enjoys interacting with peers. I am hopeful that this sport will go a long way towards his physical and mental well being.

We love Potomac Kempo! Sensai Gary provides students with opportunities for positive social interaction and a sense of community within the dojo!

A couple years ago, I wanted to start a martial art to add some structure and discipline to my workouts. I texted Sensei Gary and was basically in the dojo the same day doing my first lesson. Sensei Gary and Potomac Kempo have helped me find a new passion and then even get back in shape after a pregnancy + broken foot and I can’t wait for my daughter to get started soon too.