Reviews & Testimonials

We’ve had an amazing experience at this martial arts school where my son's takes jiu-jitsu. The staff is super friendly, caring, patient, and always willing to help out. They create a warm and supportive environment where kids feel excited to learn and grow, both on and off the mat.

The facility is always clean, well-organized, and clearly taken care of with a lot of attention. You can tell they genuinely put a lot of effort into making it a safe, welcoming space for families.

My son absolutely loves going and looks forward to class every week. That really says a lot about how fun and engaging the instructors make each session. Besides the regular classes, they also offer great extras like birthday parties and women’s self-defense classes (just to name a few), which are all very reasonably priced for everything included and the experience you get.

We’re truly grateful to be part of such a positive and professional community, and we’d definitely recommend this martial arts school to anyone looking for a supportive, top-notch place to train.

Stefanie L.

Website Submission - February 2026

Myles is so blessed. Shihan Quatrochi, Renshi LaPolla, and Sensei O’Callahan have been angels in disguise for Myles. They work hard to show Myles what he is capable of when he works hard and believes in himself. He is learning about discipline, patience, self defense, dedication, kindness, and character development. We are so proud of how Myles tested tonight and he earned his yellow belt! We just hope that Shihan, Renshi, and Sensei know how much their hard work and patience mean to us. There is nowhere better than AQMAI.

Melissa V.

Google - October 2025

My daughter started off in the special needs class and now she is thriving in the adult class. What a wonderful program they have and how they work at your pace, skill and knowledge. The staff is so patient and kind and understanding and caring. I couldn't have asked for a better dojo than this one. Thank you everyone for all that you have done for our daughter.

Jennifer O.

Google - September 2025

I have been going to AQMAI since 2021, and it is the best martial arts school around. Shihan Quatrochi and all the wonderful instructors really do a great job in teaching me, and all the other students, jujitsu and self-defense skills. It does not matter one’s skill level, coordination, physical shape, or abilities; Shihan and the instructors will make sure you learn this art and that you feel good about yourself every time you step in and out of the dojo. Shihan and the instructors are incredibly patient, understanding, and accommodating to all students of any age or ability. The staff at AQMAI are very friendly and make the dojo a great environment for all learners to feel welcome and to hone their craft at their own pace. AQMAI is a wonderful school for all kinds of martial arts learners, and I cannot recommend it enough for kids and adults.

Dane F.

Website - August 2025

My daughter started off in the special needs class and now she is thriving in the adult class. What a wonderful program they have and how they work at your pace, skill and knowledge. The staff is so patient and kind and understanding and caring. I couldn't have asked for a better dojo than this one. Thank you everyone for all that you have done for our daughter.

Jennifer O.

Website - August 2025

Since my son has started at this school he's been doing great, so focused in class. He's really enjoying learning Jujitsu. So excited to go to class the two days he goes. He loves sensei, who teach the class. 

AQMAI, is the best for teaching my son. Highly recommend this school.

Mary B.

Website - July 2025

As a retired doctor, I was looking forward to finally having the time to study jujitsu. I joined Anthony Quatrochi’s Martial Arts Institute, taking private lessons.

I have had medical issues in the past that I must still accommodate, and the instructors were extremely welcoming and willing to work at my pace.

In fact, the whole staff is fantastic and extremely caring about the lives and welfare of the students and their families.

I recently expanded my training to include group classes as well as my private lessons because I’m enjoying myself so much!

I believe that attending classes at AQMAI has added to both my mental and physical well-being, and I highly recommend this art, and particularly this school, to students of all ages.

AQMAI has a student in me for life!

Dr. Cary M.

Sent via Email - January, 2025

Incredible experience at the self defense class. Anthony and his students did a wonderful job explaining actions we could do to get out of a scary situation. The students were super helpful, patient and didn't mind taking a hit. I highly recommend.

Fiona S.

Google - April 2025

I’ve been training at Anthony Quatrochi’s Martial Arts Institute for over a year now, and it’s been an amazing experience. The dojo is very beginner-friendly, which is great for me, and the atmosphere is welcoming and supportive. The instructors are knowledgeable and do a great job teaching Jiu-Jitsu in a way that’s both fun and effective. I’ve been to other dojos before, but this one really stands out. It’s been a great journey learning this art alongside such a wonderful group of people!

Austin O.

Google - March 2025

I have to say i never thought it would turn out like this. What a great system, incredibly dedicated staff and family like atmosphere. And especially great master Shihan Quatrochi. So grateful to be here..osu

Anthony R.

Google - February 2025

My son started in summer 2020 when he was just 4 years old. For the first month or 2 he would just stand back and watch. I was ready to pull him and try something new but Shihan said to give it time and I trusted the process. He is now a helper and student and loves every minute. The dojo has become a second home and family for us. My husband has even started classes, too. The atmosphere is no stress and everyone is accepted. Everyone truly cares for each other.

Heather B.

Google - February 2025

My son started in August. They were so accommodating with our weird summer schedule and let us try things out as we could. My son would bounce back and forth on if we was going to continue. I’d talk it over with Suzie as we still had time in the trial about what to do. We didn’t want to commit to something he didn’t like. We gave him time. Ultimately, he decided to jump on board. This has been just great for him. The dojo is like a family. They go above and beyond for the kids. It’s not just the instruction, it’s the sense of belonging, the extra activities they do like the Halloween party and nerf night, the overall atmosphere. Everyone is always so kind and understanding. My son is learning discipline and self defense, gaining confidence, making new friends. Even his little sister loves to go and if you ask her what sport she wants to do when she gets bigger, she says jiujitsu (and my son plays other spots too that she attends so it’s not just because he is doing it). Grateful to have found this community.

April R.

Google - February 2025

Anthony and the entire staff have gone out of their way to make my son feel accepted. In just his first month as a student there he has made so much progress. We drive 30 minutes to get there, despite there being another dojo right in our town, because they are Anderson Certified and have the patience and the drive to truly understand how to work with my son who is on the spectrum. We are so grateful that such an incredible establishment demonstrates inclusion on a level that goes well beyond anything we have experienced for my son in the past. We love and highly recommend AQMAI!

Review update: My son has been a student at AQMAI for 2 1/2 years now. At his parent teacher conference at school this week his speech therapist of 4 years said to me, “Vinny has become a completely different kid these past 2 years. His focus, ability to redirect himself, his eye contact, body language, self control, discipline, and ability to follow instructions is like night and day. I don’t know what you’ve done but he’s turned the corner so much and because of that has advanced as a student so much.”

My response: ”Anthony Quatrochi’s Martial Arts Institute.”

I continue to remain humbled and grateful for all the staff at this incredible facility. You’ve all become like family to us. Osu!

Stephanie D.

Google - January 2025

I've always wanted to learn martial arts. My husband and I got the free trial classes in April. I cannot imagine a more welcoming environment! The humble senseis and shihan always focus on explaining what the arts are all about and encourage your learning in a safe space. Goes without saying that we stayed and continue to go to classes every week. I'm so grateful to be part of this community!

Alexandra G.

Google - August 2024

I had an amazing experience here! The instructors were fantastic, and the environment was incredibly comfortable. I’ll definitely be back soon!

Abigail F.

Google - November 2024

The overall experience at Anthony Quatrochi's Martial Arts Institute can be described by using one simple word, "FAMILY". EVERYONE treats my family like their own, they take the time to learn your child's name and personally greet them upon arrival which makes every kid feel important and special. Their commitment they show in teaching my child discipline, drive and most importantly, respect is something we cannot thank them enough for.....OSU!

Mike M.

Google - July 2024

AQMAI has a family atmosphere with serious training. This school is not a black belt factory and is not flashy. If you want to train to effectively keep yourself safe - this is the place. Great place to learn self defense from kids to adults. AQMAI teaches students with all abilities. Nothing in this school is given it is all earned. The atmosphere is ego feee and everyone learns at their own pace. If you try this dojo out you will notice a lot of higher ranks but don’t be discouraged or intimidated. The reason this school has so many high ranking students is because they love it hear and stay for years and years.

Lou L.

Google - June 2024

They say there are no mistakes in life.. Certainly true when I decided to sign my grandson up for summer camp. Now enrolled in the junior class. The journey began, a path to follow for anyone needing focus, confidence and a feeling of being understood. Protecting the body .. but the mind and soul.. all inclusive. The owner, Anthony, the instructors and yes Suzie.. They are the BEST. So very grateful for them all. There’s no looking back..Osu

Following up on this post. After a couple of months I felt it was time for an update. My grandson expressed his own thoughts one day.. This certainly will tell you all you need to know. “My role models are Dad, Shihan, Renshi Lou, Sensei James, Sensei Darcy. I watch the class and I see such dedication and compassion from the instructors.

Best of all.. the students learn while having FUN.

Cathy P.

Google - June 2024

The all abilities class has provided my son with confidence and a sense of responsibility. The staff is amazing g and very welcoming. So glad we chose the dojo for our son.

Melinda P.

Google - September 2023

The collective years of positive experience with AQMAI is a testament to the skill of its instructors and staff. In a field where there are options, this school stands above and beyond all the rest in terms of real life preparedness. Students learn and grow in their ability because of the dedication from its teachers who have spent years perfecting their own skills. Without doubt, AQMAI is where you want to train.

My daughter has been a student at AQMAI since 2015. The confidence that she has gained in that time comes largely in part from the ability to protect herself through martial arts. The instructors at AQMAI are without question the most talented and skilled teachers. This school is dedicated to training its students in a safe, family friendly atmosphere that prepares them for life’s challenges. There are no useless trophies or hidden testing fees at AQMAI. There is only the confidence that comes from earning these skills.

Cathy S.

Google - May 2023

We started free trial classes here after trying a few prior places that were pretty much a daycare and taught nothing. The dojo teaches so much more and helps with discipline inside and outside of class. We had a listening problem that we brought up to his teachers and they talked with him about it which helped. They've been nothing but helpful and supportive. I love watching class from afar as my son concentrates and actually learns! And most of all I loved the straight forward pricing. Every other place has you doing math on what it will cost in the end. This dojo gives you a set price after a free trial and that's that, no fine print! Highly recommend!

Jessica H.

Google - June 2023

The first thing that comes to my mind when I think about AQMAI is family. This family has taught my two children more valuable lessons than I can count.

My son began lessons as a shy, quiet 9 year old, and has blossomed into a strong, independent, and outgoing 14 year old. He’s found a love of teaching the younger students and looks up to all of the higher ranks and Shihan tremendously.

My daughter began classes just after turning 4 and absolutely loves learning self defense. She’s watched her brother for years and couldn’t wait to get on the mat herself. I am thankful for the lessons she’s learning and that she will always have a foundation on how to protect herself.

If you’re looking for a dojo, don’t look any further. You will learn self defense and martial arts, but you will also be welcomed into a family that learns together, trains together, and continues to push each other for better every day. We couldn’t imagine our kids training anywhere else!

Kristen M.

Google - January 2023

We ABSOLUTELY love AQMAI!!! My son started when he was 5, he has ADHD & Sensory Processing Disorder & they were always attentive to his needs. The virtual classes during 2020 were great, even if they were hard for my child. After a break, my son decided to go back beginning of 2022, to their new All Abilities class & we all couldn’t be happier. The values they teach, that’s it’s not all about fighting and competition is great. All while learning to defend themselves. We are apart of the AQMAI family and love it!! We’ll never go anywhere else.

Nicole M.

Google - February 2023

I attended AQMAI with my family for over 10 years, and was an instructor for 5-6 before leaving for college. The atmosphere was amazing, I made lifelong friends, and learned endless ways to protect myself that I know will stick with me forever. If you’re looking for a place that will give you peace of mind that you, your child, friends, or family will be safe while navigating the world, this place and the people are the place to be. Always an amazing environment, the instructors and students love what they do and love new people. Check it out!

Georgeanna W.

Google - June 2022

I first started my journey with AQMAI in 2008 when I was looking for a martial arts school for my children. At ages 4 and 5, my son and daughter were the perfect age to begin training. After looking at several schools I decided to enroll them with Shihan Quatrochi and his staff. I wanted my children to learn a practical and effective approach to self defense, AQMAI was the perfect fit. The basic concept of “Get home safe” is the central theme in the dojo. While many schools are concerned with contests or tournaments, AQMAI focuses on self defense, using whatever is necessary to stay safe. As I watched my children train I decided to join in on the fun. Having a background in Tae Kwon Do, I couldn’t wait to begin my martial arts training again. I quickly learned how much more practical Jujitsu is compared to what I had trained in before. The instructors at AQMAI, led by Shihan Quatrochi, are able to take complex techniques and break them down into basic principles. This approach works well for children and adults alike. Over the years I have seen the patience, care, and dedication the instructors have towards their students. It is a place where you can feel comfortable to ask a question and always have someone willing to spend the time to help you understand a technique, concept, or principle. AQMAI has been a large part of my life for the past 13 years. Many of the people I started training with are still training today, that speaks volumes in and of itself. It is a dojo where the ego is left at the door, we all work together and help each other improve. It is a welcoming environment for anyone that is looking to learn how to defend themselves.

Ron S.

Google - August 2022

At AQMAI, you will begin to learn self defense on day one. You will feel welcome and wanted. The instructors are with you all the way teaching and training you. As a parent, you won't be ushered into an office to go over contracts and additional cost. You pay one monthly fee and everything is included in it. Instead of an office you will be escorted to a room where you can observe the training. Senior staff is always available to answer questions or address any other concerns you may have. AQMAI's students are a family and remain at the school after receiving their black belts. On a recent night it was interesting to see 16 black belts on the floor at one time. 8 male and 8 female, many with advanced degrees. The staff and students are truly family.

Mark T.

Google - June 2022

AQMAI becomes family. My son began classes over three years ago, and he has learned much more than martial arts. Anthony and his staff does an amazing job engaging the children and putting them in real life circumstances teaching them how to defend themselves. One of my favorite nights to watch was when they had the kids walking in the parking lot and having an instructor try to grab them and force them into a car and they taught the kids teqniques to fight them off and run away! As parents we are always worried about our kids but AQMAI gives our kids a fighting chance!

Jeff T.

Google - June 2022

I started attending classes at AQMAI when I was 4 years old, and went here for 10+ years. It was a fantastic experience every second I was there. The instructors are insightful, effective, and understanding, and the whole place really is like a big family. I've met some of my best friends over the years here at AQMAI, and I still attend classes whenever I have the time. AQMAI has given me a great deal of confidence in my own abilities, and in doing so I have been given fantastic experiences that I wouldn't trade for the world.

Campbell W.

Google - June 2022

My family’s experience with AQMAI started when my son, at age 4 or so, was invited to try out a class with his buddy, who’s older brothers were already at the school. He loved it from the first class, and he continued to train there until he left for college (and still checks in when he is back). Interacting with the instructors, I found them to be a great group of people, teaching an really interesting style (traditional Japanese Ju-Jitsu coupled with the best elements of other styles, and really good practical advice about avoiding dangerous situations, and de-escalation of situations). After watching my son’s classes off and on for a few months, seeing some adult beginner classes, and the advanced capabilities of the instructors, I really really REALLY wanted to join in and to learn how to do what they were doing. About that time, my daughter also joined AQMAI, and we continued to attend, train, advance, learn, and eventually even to start to help instruct at AQMAI over the next ten or so years.

Watching my kids grow up, in both confidence and capability, and to mature in such a healthy environment has been a pure joy. AQMAI not only provides the best expression of self-defense preparation I’ve ever seen, but also strong moral messages, individual and familial responsibility, and great opportunities to grow as a person. My daughter in particular grew into an instructor for several years (through high-school) teaching children and eventually adult classes, growing in self-assurance and self-awareness, and ultimately into an admirable young adult, and my son similarly grew into a confident and capable young man, student, scholar and assistant instructor. In our time, we’ve also trained young students into our own replacements, seeing children grow into admirable young adults teaching the next generation to come through the school.

AQMAI was established with all the right principles: the value of people/family and their time, a non-nonsense no-BS approach that espouses a free trial, no contracts, simple monthly fee structure with no hidden costs (i.e. no testing fees or real equipment purchases, etc.) and a ready understanding of people’s changing life conditions. The instructors love their art and want to share it; they will make special arrangements for private lessons, offer group seminars, and practice community outreach and upstanding citizenship. Training at the dojo is only one part of the full AQMAI experience, as they also have an active set of other activity opportunities, including community events, fun adventure activities (like white-water rafting) holiday parties, and thematic events like game nights.

AQMAI offers the best martial arts training within a sense of a real community. In short, AQMAI is not just a family, but a great family, with all the good that brings.

John D. W.

Google - June 2022

This is an excellent school. Students of all abilities are treated with respect and continually challenged with new skills. They are taught elite martial arts and how to become self-disciplined and self-confident. Students of all ages and skill levels are welcomed, included and successful. The staff are talented and caring. It is truly a great place to learn and be part of a community.

Kathleen D.

Google - October 2022

My daughter has been taking classes at AQMAI for over a year now. In that time she has gained many useful skills that can be attributed to the amazing staff and instructors at this dojo. The instructors work on self control, self confidence, situational awareness, and respect with the students, just to name a few. What sets this dojo apart from others is the incredibly caring and passionate attitudes of the instructors and their students. There's nothing else like it.

Rianna F.

Google - June 2022

Our kids love this place! They have been students for more than a year now. AQMAI has helped them with many walks of life... everything from sports to character building especially during these troubled times. Thanks AQMAI for your dedication to your students in continuing to serve our community while keeping them safe. Thanks for making it fun for the kids and serious at the same time. Hats off a great staff of people!

Jase H.

Google - September 2021

I first visited AQMAI with my Girl Scout troop, and I enjoyed the outing so much that I went back for a two week trial. Ten years later, I can say that I’ve enjoyed every class, summer camp, and seminar and fostered many close friendships. I am sad to have to bid the AQMAI family farewell, but I’ve moved out of state. The 5 stars I give here are not enough.

There is no better place than AQMAI to learn and grow, and the lessons learned in the dojo help in all facets of life. Training is varied to provide a realistic and well-rounded education, and instructors are knowledgeable not only about the technique but also the fundamental principles involved. All the instructors are passionate, attentive, and dedicated to the well-being of their students.

Over the years, I have learned how to defend myself physically and verbally, and my training has instilled in me confidence, determination, perseverance, and focus. My time as an Assistant Instructor developed my creativity and sharpened my leadership and communication skills.

Sincere thanks to Sensei Cameron, Shihan, and all my fellow instructors and training partners. Osu!

Hannah T.

Google - 2019

My child has been attending AQMAI since about 2014. I have nothing but positive things to say about their school and their techniques. My child has gained tremendous self confidence. Most recently at their latest belt testing event, I was pleasantly surprised to see that my child was tested on their real life scenario stranger danger escape techniques. As scary as this was to watch play out, it was wonderful to know that this school is teaching these types of situations and techniques to children if God forbid they are ever in a type of situation that requires them to use force to escape. All in all the school makes all of the martial arts skills taught in a fun but educational way. No harsh discipline whatsoever. The instructors are kind and caring and fun loving. It is a big family. Summer day camp is offered in the summer time and there are themed events throughout the year. I gladly rate AQMAI 5 stars, 2 thumbs up!

DT G.

Google - 2018

My 2 kids really enjoy their class & instructors at AQMAI (Wappingers). The skills being taught are done so in a fun way, which is more effective than the screaming "in your face" tactics at other dojos. The class size never seems to large & always has a good ratio of instructors to students. I've been impressed since day one with the polite & respectful attitudes of Shihan Anthony's staff. Senseis Ian, Jeremy & Georgie are wonderful with all the kids, as are the Instructor "helpers". Besides martial arts, there are other events & parties held for the students. Keep up the great work!

Leslie B.

Google - 2016

I love this place!!! Our daughter has been training at AQMAI for the past four years. The growth in her confidence and discipline is incredible. It's not about her strength and her responsibility to us. It's about the way she feels and carries herself daily. She has grow into the understanding of respect and responsibility, and a well rounded girl which AQMAI has played a significant part in. We loved it so much we brought our son! 2 years later her gets hold of his energy and is the most focused while in the classroom. He has never wore the instructors down and enjoys being with them each night. He has learned build bonds and friendships and really become an individual in his strength. I would send anyone to AQMAI but be ready because you walk through the front door you"ll never walk back out!!!!

Christine S.

Google - 2014

My son started AQMAI 9yrs ago. He has grown into a self confident young man. I know this has to do with him going to AQMAI. They have taught him discipline and respect. He is now an Asst. Instructor and loves helping the other children to learn.

Our second son started 4yrs ago and loves it just as much as his older brother.

Everyone at AQMAI is friendly, outgoing and helpful. They have several camps over the summer and winter breaks that the kids love to go to. They always have fun!

If you are looking to send your child somewhere to train this is the place for them!!

Terry T.

Google - 2014

My family has been associated with AQMAI since 2006. To start out, there is no ego at the dojo except for the confidence the instructors instill into their students. As the old saying goes, a belt is something we use to hold our pants up. While we learn close combat for defeating an armed opponent in which one uses no weapon or only a short weapon, the instructors are always referring back to the fundamentals, manipulating the opponent's force against himself rather than confronting it with one's own force.

The training is realistic. Any situation at any time. This goes a long way with the children, where at times sometimes the easiest way to get out of a situation is not to be in one. Keep up the good work. OSU!!!!

Nunzio G.

Google - 2013