Columbia's Premier
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Training Center
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Children's Programs
Our programs offer children a strong foundation in essential character qualities such as courtesy, respect, and discipline.
Teen and Adult
13+
Our adult martial arts program will help you get fit while equipping you with the tools you need to lead a more balanced life.
Fitness Training
Not everyone is looking for the same results, so put your aspirations in motion by taking that first step. Train for MAXIMUM results with an experienced professional!
OUR MISSION HAS ALWAYS BEEN TO TRAIN THE BEST, MOST CAPABLE MARTIAL ARTISTS POSSIBLE. WE ARE NOT A TIME-BASED SCHOOL, BUT AN ABILITY-BASED SCHOOL
With a top-notch curriculum, we pride ourselves on training for real results and real capabilities. This means awarding a student stripe or rank when the technique is demonstrated with form, fluidity, and function....not from an arbitrary mark on a calendar. My name is JD Rifkin and I take great pride in the successes of my students. I began my martial arts journey some 32 years ago and haven't stopped since. When we opened our first school in November of 2000, I made a commitment to our students and families to create an enjoyable environment for students to improve their fitness, while building the confidence they can carry into their everyday lives. By reinforcing material both in class and in our online home practice "Student Tutorial" videos, we ensure that our students get the maximum benefit from training at RPKC.
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Whether you are looking for a sports activity for your child or for an alternative from the boring gym fitness routine, martial arts is unlike any other sport because at the core of the training, the emphasis is on personal development. Anyone can begin martial arts - any age, any fitness level.
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My six year old son has been attending Master Rifkins karate program for four months. I can't say enough how much I love this program. My son has had amazing improvement in strength, balance, focus, and his flexibility has surprised me completely. He use to fall over plenty, couldn't reach his toes...now he has his first stripe for kicking, which requires plenty of balance and he can practically do splits. My son loves showing off his skills to his family and friends.
Jennifer
JD Rifkin's gym in Columbia is as professional as it gets. My family and I have been involved in TKD for over twenty years with another organization. It was time to find a new gym and I joined Rifkin Professional after a private lesson with Master Rifkin. We are completely impressed. Rifkin is a complete martial artist with an exceptional skill-set. He is on the mats every day and teaches his own classes, beginner through advanced - he is an excellent instructor. Because of Rifkin's own athletic abilities and martial arts knowledge, this gym offers the "next-level" experience. You will be challenged regardless of your current skills. If you are looking for the first time as a beginning student or shopping around for a new gym, Rifkin is a great choice.
D.B.
"This is the first martial arts center I've been to in quite some time that doesn't pride itself in how many black belts they turn out in a given period of time, but are rather interested in the quality of the students and material covered. RPKC is definitely not a 'pay money for your belt' kind of school; you pay for your belt with hard work and dedication. Master Rifkin and his training staff are very knowledgable in all that they teach, and being a practitioner of martial arts for most of my life, I feel very comfortable in recommending RPKC as a school to give a look at."
Duane (Nov. '13)
Master Rifkin’s teaching does not only pertain to karate classes and training only! In order to succeed one must apply the rules in every day life! This will make you not only a comprehensively physically strong person, but also mentally. One must conquer himself first, conquer his/her mind and then the physical conquest will become possible. Such conquest must first target the weaknesses of the mind, doubts and fears. One step toward this goal is when you step on the karate floor for the first time. We all have seen the difference. Being a positive psychologist and employing many rules in every day life, I nevertheless needed to hear that support, enthusiasm and encouragement from someone else. And this person was and undoubtfully is Master Rifkin.
Yana
Can I just tell you that I have never seen (our son) so passionate about martial arts before? He enjoys being a part of your karate family. I have seen drastic changes in him. Before we enrolled him to your studio, he had the worst attitude. Part of it was boredom and just "growing pains" of being a teenager.
Now, he is much more calm, smiles alot more, and the attitude has changed for the better. I can't say, he's fully cured, after all he is a teenager (lol) but he's better. I just want to say THANK YOU so much for everything that you do! (We) are glad we have found your karate center. You guys are AWESOME!
Anna
"Just love this! So happy to have found Rifkin Professional Karate Center! It's such an important aspect of our life now!! Thank you, Master Rifkin!"
Helen (Oct. '16)
"Talk about blessed! I got to watch my best friends daughter compete in a karate tournament and my own daughter as well as so many amazing people! We truly have found a family with Rifkin Professional Karate! Proud of everyone today!"
Heidi (September, 2016)
"Thank you! Master Rifkin. For teaching so many women and children self defense. But the one thing we want to thank you most for is teaching our daughter and granddaughter to be very self assured and stronger. Thank you, to the entire team. You Rock!"
Sheila (June, 2016)
"Spencer was a ROCK STAR this evening at his karate belt testing....Purple belt here he comes!!! Nothing beats the reward he gets from his karate class!! And... nothing beats his karate program! Such a great day....hard work will pay off, tomorrow is the belt ceremony....proud parents!"
Jennifer (June, 2016)
"Awesome instructor! One of the best in the Midwest."
R. Osborn(professional martial artist)
Great school. Master Rifkin is fun and approachable while still being a thorough instructor; that being said, he maintains high expectations of his students. He pays attention to what is happening in class and knows when to push students harder and when to let them digest new information. I started as a white belt last year and have made significant improvements to my flexibility and endurance.I particularly like the way he is with children. My daughter is only 5 and within one day of starting, understood what was expected of her in class. Master Rifkin is kind but direct when she needs to change something and, because he keeps the class active and engaged, she adjusts quickly. He takes time to talk and joke with the children before and after class, which I really appreciate. He's demanding but not frightening. My girl and I both have a lot of fun. I highly recommend this school.
Natalie (2015)
"We are so thankful we had our son, Owen, join Master Rifkin's class 6 months ago. We have noticed a huge change in his behavior and he's finally doing something he wants to do as he gets older!"
Brioni(Dec. '16)
"My 9 year old daughter has been attending RPKC for almost two months. I have watched her go from being somewhat introverted to a self confident, out going individual. Master Rifkin is a much disciplined instructor and demands the same from his students. At RPKC each student receives encouragement along with positive feedback from the instructors. Master Rifkin not only teaches students the proper way to execute Karate moves, he incorporates words of wisdom in classes. One day he asked his students what the definition of a “black belt” was. No one knew the answer he was looking for. He told the students a “black belt” is a “white belt” that never gave up, and that hold’s true for anything you do in life. Never give up. RPKC is the best in town. I would highly recommend enrolling if you are serious about learning Karate."
Boyce(2012)
"When my son said he wanted to learn karate I knew nothing about where to go or who to chose. Thankfully I happened to see Rifkin Professional Karate before any other listing. I read the reviews and thought ok this is the one we're going to check out. I felt good with that choice after just talking to Master Rifkin on the phone the first time.... I have seen my son become so much more confident in everything he does, not just karate. He's started to figure out the "rewards" of hard work in ways my husband and I weren't fully able to show him but most of all, Master Rifkin has taught him to never give up. That seems so simple and something you'd think my husband and I would have already taught him. We have tried trust me! My son knows he always has us in his corner to cheer him on, believe in him and celebrate when he accomplishes one of his goals but now he also has Master Rifkin. If you're looking for somewhere for you or your child to learn karate- this is the place and Master Rifkin is the one, hands down."
Amy(2016)
"One of the most inspirational places I have ever been, highly motivating and excellence all around!"
Jennifer(2013)
"Dearest Master Rifkin,
I cannot tell you how much you and your teachings have influenced my life. After the 9-11 attacks, I felt helpless. I imagined myself under a situation where my life would be put into someone else's hands and I had no way to defend myself. Uncomfortable with this helpless feeling, I met you at Starbucks a few months later and my martial arts training began.
I hoped it was obvious that I loved our forms. They are beautiful, artistic, and skillful. Whenever I practice them people always ask me what they are and where I learned them, or even to perform them again. When performing our forms-I not only think of the skills, precision, and tactics you have instilled-I envision how you, Mr. Bosque, Mr. Dang and Ms. Nagayama gracefully and whole-heartedly demonstrate how the forms are supposed to be.....flawless.
I am proud to have been a student at our school and am proud to have learned from instructors who truly cared about my attendance and progress.
Rose.C (2008)
"Rifkin Pro Karate is a truly inspiring place. My son just recently started his Martial Arts training there and the difference I have seen in him already is truly amazing! Master Rifkin and his staff are all amazing instructors and really take the time to actually teach not just go through the motions.
Every belt at Rifkin is earned no one is just given a belt just because they have been in one level long enough. This is a great way to teach children that you don't just get things for the sake of getting them you have to earn it. If you are looking for a place for your children or yourself Rifkin Pro Karate is the place to go."
Sara V. (2009)
Master JD Rifkin knows how to bring out the best in his child students, after class, she just moved more comfortably in her body.
Natalie (2017)
"I've lived around martial arts and boxing since I was old enough to remember, and being in Rifkin Professional Karate for the last year has been a lot of hard work, but well worth all the time and effort. I couldn't ask for a better teacher in Master Jd Rifkin. Even when you think your at your best, he can always find a way for you to improve."
Joseph (March '17)
"Every once in a while an idea comes together to create a facility that sets a new standard for Excellence in Performance, Aesthetics, and Durability......visit JD Rifkin (Rifkin Professional Karate Center) and begin your journey!"
Brent (supplier/manufacturer)
"Thank you Master Rifkin and Tammy Rifkin for being so supportive to all of us students, but most of all thank you for being so supportive to me and to my girl Madyson!! I don't think I could have asked for a better school to train at and to call my family!!"
Misty (March '16)
"When you hear how polite and respectful your kid is and how even though he wasn't slacking, his teacher has seen a big improvement, focus and rice to improve-you take pride but know that it's truly who you have chosen to surround your child and trusted to teach/coach him. So job well done to Ed and I, and HUGE thank yous to his awesome fitness family and as always, Rifkin Professional Karate - U.P.M.A.A. and his Master, Jd Rifkin.
As much as I and Edward guide and raise him, you all have a giant impact on him and we couldn't imagine better role models and teachers for him"
Amy S (2017)
Super Huge testing this time around! I was so impressed! JD Rifkin your school is ON FIRE! Can I say it?.....We love you. Your dojo is pure AWESOMENESS!!!
Lisa B. (June 2017)
"Master Rifkin is an amazing insructor who cares about his students and works them hard!"
Craig S. (June, '17)
"I have to say this little girl has absolutely made me so extremely proud to be her mom. Yesterday she competed in her first big tournament (2nd biggest in the nation outside of Texas) she may not have placed but she went out and did her very best she never once complained about not placing and was just happy to be there. Everyone from #TeamRifkin did an amazing job! Can't wait to see how she progresses in the future!"
Lindsey( July, 2017)
"Proud to be a student at RPKC. I'd like to thank Master Jd Rifkin for everything. This last year and an half has been a blast. Now I see the difference between us and everyone else. #DETAILS. I would have loved to see Ms. Aaliyah Potes compete. Hopefully next time!!! I have learned so much. I need lots of improvement, but I'm loving those charging kicks. I saw alot of double kicks in this tournament and alot of schools with hands down. As I get better, my skill level will improve. One day I hope to be as good as Master Rifkin. Can't wait for class on Monday:)"
J. (2017)
"I just had the privilege of representing Team Missouri at Ozark Mountain Nationals! It was definitely something I will never forget, what a great experience! Thank you Richard Osborn Jr. for asking me to fight with Team MO and for putting on a great tournament! Also, a HUGE CONGRATS to our school Rifkin Professional Karate for being the TOP SCHOOL at the tournament!! We had a lot of students in/at the tournament and everyone of us held our heads high and did our best with many many wins!! What a great day!!"
MW (2017)
"Happy Birthday Master Rifkin! Thank you for providing me with incredible life skills and bad a** moves. I appreciate your work everyday of life and am very thankful that you were my instructor all these years. Have an amazing birthday and enjoy this new year of life!"
Michelle (black belt, RPKC)
In 2007 after 8 very long years of getting my butt handed to me on the mat, I received my first black belt under Master Rifkin and became the first female to do so at Rifkin Pro Karate. I had a few friends training at the time but after visiting various schools, watching or participating, I realized the difference in training I was receiving. Kicks and punches being held to a higher standard because when you throw them correctly, you can stop them as well, especially if you realize mid kick that it has more power than you anticipated. Watch other schools, do they point/flex their toes/feet on the varying kicks? Are they're hands down when they kick? Are the arms flailing about with no control or sense over what your body is doing? Master Rifkin notices and they do not skirt by him because proper technique will save your life. I was never treated differently as a female as well which is an invaluable tool in learning martial arts....... because Master Rifkin has a way of pushing you towards your own excellence. I earned my Black Belt and I am humbled to have had such an instructor that cared about my training to see me through. He hasn't changed a bit in all the years I've trained with him and I'm sure he never will...he just cares too much. Train here first, then go out and check other places and see just how much you've learned.
Leilani S., Black Belt, RPKC (2017)
It is official we have greenbelts these people worked their butts off and did the best the could my heart swells to continue to watch them grown in their journey and to watch Zoey get her black belt as well I absolutely love that we have found Rifkin Professional Karate Center and it feels like one big family! I can't wait to see where the rest of this journey takes Harley and the rest of her class mates!
Lindsey (Sept.'17)
"Eva just tested for her third stripe and permission to try for her Blue belt this weekend. I have to tell you -- it wasn't looking good. In all it was OKAY, but there were wobbles and forgotten bits and such.
Master Jd Rifkin asked Josh and I to stay after her class for a bit, then called Eva up to the front of the following class -- the advanced class -- and told them that their job was to keep her from earning the last stripe. He then told her that she could only get her stripe if she out-performed the class.
Suddenly my little girl was on fire. She nailed that form to the wall with strength, determination and just... fire. She got that third stripe and is testing this weekend. I was literally shaking my head at how well Master Rifkin knows how to bring out her best. That performance just floored both Josh and me.
Once again, I find myself thanking Master Rifkin for the wonderful job he is doing with her. We are blessed."
Nat (2018)
"A remarkable place for kids of all shapes, sizes and abilities. Master Rifkin is demanding but fair and kind...just a great teacher. I’d give six stars if I could."
Scott R. (March '18)
I shopped around before landing at RPKC. Master Rifkin's attention to MY every detail are what sets him apart from other schools in town - there is zero comparison - all while making me feel 100% comfortable. If you just want to sweat, I'd say get a gym membership. If you want self-defense, exercise and self-discipline, you've found the right place!
J. Conroy
Master Rifkin, I just wanted to take a moment to tell you what a great joy it is watching (my son) begin Karate as your student. You have shown a great deal of patience and commitment in training younger students - Thanks! He seems to really be progressing and what you say sticks with him. I especially enjoyed the "simon says" training tonight. Again, thanks for your commitment, time, and approach to training.
D.W.
Master Rifkin has an incredible program that I can't speak of highly enough. This discipline has benefited and will continue to benefit, my girl in every aspect of her life, and I don't say that lightly. Master Rifkin's lessons don't end on the mat. Mad respect. If you or your kiddo have even the slightest inkling, please do check out Rifkin Professional Karate Center.
Laura
June, 2016
Master Rifkin works them hard and makes them earn everything. Every achievement is earned through hard work and sweat. That's why he is the best at what he does.
Randy L.
2016
My 8 year old son has been going to Rifkin Karate Center for the last couple of years. We are very happy with the professionalism and positive values Master Rifkin provides in training his students. What I like the most about Rifkin Karate Center among other things is that students have to really earn their belts, unlike the other karate centers where belts are easily attainable. The belt exam is all one has to watch to see the seriousness and professionalism of this center. This was the first and last place I checked out when I was looking for Karate for my son and feel very fortunate to have found Master Rifkin to train my son.
Mita N.
2010
I have been training at RPKC for about 2 years now. Master Rifkin is an excellent instructor and motivator. I have lost over 40lbs since joining and I'm still losing weight to this day. I have learned how to defend myself and that I am capable of more than I realized. If you need motivation, discipline, and a great workout this is the place for you.
DJ
2015
Rifkin Professional is truly just that, professional. I came to the gym with prior martial arts experience and a certain set of expectations of what I wanted in a new martial-arts gym. And thus-far I can say, without reservation, that Rifkin has exceeded all expectations. JD Rifkin is a next-level athlete, an exceptional instructor, and a complete martial artist. The facilities are new and he teaches all of the classes; makes for a good vibe in the gym.
DB
2013
"Ayla competed in her first ever karate competition today. Not only did she give it her all, she beat the nine other girls in her division and would've tied the winner of the boy's division as well. 1st place. So impressed; so humbled. Great job Jd Rifkin and Amber and I can't say enough about the community at Rifkin Professional Karate Center."
Scott (July '18)
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