Paul VL (Father of Karate A to Z and ABK Students)

My son and daughter are in karate at ABK. Karate at ABK has been especially helpfun to my son, who started in the A to Z program at age 4 and is currently a brown belt at age 7 1/2. He loves Master Lerma!

The disciplined environment is key, where consequences are immediate and non-negotiable, where he must fit in with the rest of the class and not deviate from instruction. Most important, an environment where he must focus on the task at hand even though he has other things on his mind. These are the things that karate provides, and the things that will serve him well the rest of his life.

S. M. (Mother of Karate A to Z MAA Student)

Dear Master Lerma,
I want to take a moment to thank you for all the time and effort you have devoted to our daughter. We brought her almost two years ago, a shy and very withdrawn 4 1/2 year old child. During the fourteen months she studied in your A to Z class, my husband and I watched as you patiently helped her to learn and master various moves. As a result of your patience and mentoring over the last two years, she has developed a measure of confidence that shows not only in her Karate, but also in her school work where she is an above average student. Thank you again for working with my husband and I to help our daughter develop into her full potential. We consider you a co-partner in her development, and look forward to many, many years working together.

Rafal U (Reality Based Self Defense Student)

A year ago I enrolled as one of the first students of the new RBSD program, which is a self-defense system designed and constantly developed by Master Lerma. Although we live abroad now, I have regular online classes and continue my journey with martial arts. The RBSD is a very practical system that allows one to feel confident in most of the real life situations. The idea of sets of basic eights helps memorize and establish proper reflexes to respond immediately to various threats no matter if they come from someone, who practices popular martial arts like kick boxing, BJJ, MMA, karate or someone who is simply experienced in street fights. Master Lerma proposes new drills regularly and changes the focus of our private classes so that, I can stay engaged, have fun and grow my skills. I fully recommend their school, ABK classes for kids and youths, and the RBSD system for adults.

Dave M. (Reality Based Self Defense Student)

Absolutely the best training by Master Lerma who delivers over 30 years of practical and formal training to each lesson. He is calm, patient, and truly listens to his students teaching them in the way they learn best.
I have the privilege of being his student that started in February 2023 with uninterrupted 1 hour session per week. Master Lerma’s training has advanced me with knowledge of the Art, the purpose for each technique, and its history.
But it doesn’t stop there, through Master Lerma’s coaching and inspiration, I have lost 27 pounds and I have increased my body definition!
You’ll find it is fun to have him coaching you, builds confidence to managing potential encounters in today’s uncertain social climates, and has excellent physical fitness and health benefits!
It is with my sincere and most humble pleasure to highly recommend Master Lerma’s program for all ages, even beyond my age of 67 years old!

Todd G. (Father of ABK Student)

Our son was born with some minor learning and physical disabilities, including low muscle tone and weak gross motor skills. We always felt he could benefit from a self-defense class, but were always unsure about when to start him. We can assuredly state that your class has been extremely beneficial for our son. Aside from the obvious physical growth and improved coordination, his self-esteem, confidence, work ethic and even grades have improved immensely.  

Merle B. (Grandma of Karate A to Z Students)

Great atmosphere and learning experience for my grandchildren. Master Lerma is a gifted teacher not only in Karate but in life lessons. 

Danna P. (Mother of Karate A to Z Student)

We love ABK and Master Lerma! He teaches the kids how to focus and achieve through martial arts. His passion for what he does makes him unique as well as his talent to teach kids of ALL abilities. He has great stories and analogies that he shares with the kids as well. If you're looking for martial arts, with a side of life lessons this is the place for you!! 

I. K. (RBSD Corporate Workshop Participant)

The coach presented innovative insights on violence and defense.

I gained valuable knowledge from both the psychological and physical aspects. I didn't expect such deep psychological insights.

The quality of the workshops was high, and it was impressive how much was taught in a short period.

A. Z. (RBSD Corporate Workshop Participant)

The workshop was truly exceptional, offering invaluable tips, a welcoming atmosphere, and an openness that made learning enjoyable. The instructor skillfully blended serious safety topics with an engaging and accessible approach, free from unnecessary solemnity. These classes not only captured my interest but also ignited a strong desire to further delve into and enhance my self-defense skills.