Trident Martial Arts - Santa Clarita, California

Ali Franco

Our daughters have been training in the TMA program for several years now. They have grown with the discipline instilled in them. They practice those values in a day today basis. They are self motivated and not afraid to accept or complete any task given. They also have been able to participate in Taekwondo tournaments gaining valuable experiences and always making new friends! The Trident Martial Arts School is our second Family! We grow together, respect each other and help each other.
The Instructors at TMA are excellent at what they teach! They always inspire the students to do their best and continue to EVOLVE! All the instructors reflect the tutelage given to them by Sir Master Gast.

JC R

Transparency Matters in Business Practices

I recently tried the two-week trial for my daughter at Trident Martial Arts, located at 19247 Golden Valley Rd, Santa Clarita, CA 91387. After the first one-on-one session, the staff told me my daughter was doing well and encouraged me to sign up for their October promotion that would reduce the initiation cost if I signed up immediately instead of using the full trial period.

The receptionist explained that the standard initiation fee was $599.99, but with the promotion, it would drop to $399.99 if I chose the one-year plan at $200 per month. We also discussed the possibility of reducing the monthly fee, and he offered a $100 per month rate if I committed to a 24-month plan with a $299.99 initiation fee. He mentioned that once we reached black belt level, the monthly fee could increase to around $300-$350.

My wife and I decided to go with the one-year agreement since we were unsure if our daughter would like Tae Kwon Do long-term. We asked if they could match the lower $299 initiation fee offered with the two-year plan for our one-year contract. They agreed, and we proceeded with the $200 per month plan.

Before signing, I requested a copy of the agreement, but the receptionist said it could only be emailed after I signed. I was allowed to take a photo of the contract terms, which I later used to review the details with ChatGPT. Nowhere in the agreement did it mention additional costs for belt advancements.

The next day, a friend mentioned that other Tae Kwon Do schools often charge for each belt level. I called the receptionist to clarify, and he informed me that each belt would cost $99.99 or an additional $30 per month if bundled. When I asked why this wasn’t disclosed before, he explained that the owner, Master Gast, instructs them to introduce these fees after sign-up because discussing them earlier could scare off potential members.

I learned that they typically wait until after a child’s first official class to discuss the belt fees. They had informed me that during the next class, my daughter would receive her uniform and white belt, and there would be a short ceremony celebrating her start in Tae Kwon Do. It’s a moment that any parent would cherish—seeing their child be proud of their new journey. However, it was at this point that they planned to discuss the additional belt fees. I can imagine how difficult it would be for a parent to say no after such a positive experience for their child. Luckily, I avoided this situation because my friend warned me about the costs beforehand, allowing me to call and clarify before my daughter’s first official class.

While I understand that running a business comes with costs, I believe a family-oriented business like this should be transparent from the beginning when parents are signing up. The extra cost wouldn’t have been an issue if it had been disclosed upfront.

The staff and instructors were courteous and professional. The instructor who worked with my daughter during the trial session was outstanding, and I would give him a five-star rating for his patience and teaching style. The receptionist was friendly and helpful throughout the process; I would rate him four stars, as he is clearly a natural salesperson. I’m not upset with the employees themselves, as they were simply following the instructions given by the owner. However, the sales approach directed by the owner left me feeling misled. I ultimately chose to cancel my contract within the two-week grace period, as I felt it was important for me to work with a school that values transparency from the start.

This review isn’t meant to bash the business but to inform other parents considering this school. For those who are new to Tae Kwon Do like me, be sure to ask about all potential costs before signing. A place that teaches values like discipline and respect should embody them in every aspect of their business, including how they communicate with families.

Ricci Ackerman

We love Trident Martial Arts my son has been going for two years and loves every minute of it. Not only it he excelling at the academy, but he has more focus in school and is doing amazing. Between the amazing instructors and the welcoming atmosphere full of encouraging helpful students Trident makes you feel like family from the moment you step in. I highly recommend it.

Jamie Kemerer

My girls have been enrolled at Trident for about a month now. The teachers here are awesome, talented and very adept at both teaching Tae Kwon Do and managing children’s emotions. It’s been fun so far and can’t wait to see these two continue the journey.

Peter Kiefer

Instructors break down mechanics of technique and what may happen if done improperly. Highly recommended not just for a good work out but to build a strong foundation in discipline and respect

Cassandra McCormick

I had been searching for a good TKD martial arts studio for my son for the last two years and I finally found a great one!! Master Gast and his staff are awesome with the kids and adults alike!! Our son (7) absolutely loves it and has learned so much already!! If you are looking for a great Martial Arts program, I highly recommend you give Trident a try!!

Juanito Jones

I signed my step-son up here recently as he has been super excited about martial arts. At first my son enjoyed it, thanks to the great staff who created a welcoming space for students new to the arts. However, working with the owner, Master Gast has been one of the most difficult and frustrating parts of the school. He is blatantly offensive and rude and I have since unenrolled my child.

Samantha Markman

This program has been a game changer for our son. Before finding Trident Martial Arts, all he wanted to do was play video games, but now he asks me every day if he has Taekwondo and is really excited to attend classes. The staff at Trident is beyond welcoming and really made Jude feel at home and part of their amazing team. Jude’s athletic ability has improved substantially in just 30 days. Can’t wait to see what he can accomplish in the future.