Mac Donald Academy of Martial Arts

8.60
6 Riverside St, Watertown, MA 02472
Perfect for:
ChildrenBeginners
Open now
Mac Donald Academy of Martial Arts interior

About

MacDonald Academy of Martial Arts in Watertown, Massachusetts is a family-owned martial arts school that specializes in Kenpo Karate and Krav Maga training. The academy is run by husband and wife team Brian and Tara MacDonald who are highly regarded by students and parents for their patient, encouraging teaching style. Their program emphasizes not only physical skills but also mental development, helping students build confidence, discipline, and respect.

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8.60/10

Our weighted 10-point scoring system for martial arts academies prioritizes instruction quality, training environment, and overall student experience.

We consider factors like instructor expertise, class structure, and facility quality. Our assessment combines student feedback, expert reviews, and website information.

Scores above 9.00 denote world-class quality, signifying premier martial arts training experiences.

Instructor imageInstructors
9.50
Class Structure imageClass Structure
8.50
Safety and Hygiene imageSafety and Hygiene
9.00
Facility Quality imageFacility Quality
8.00
Value for Money imageValue for Money
8.50
Location and Accessibility imageLocation & Accessibility
8.00

Public Review Sentiment

Google
Based on 14 Google Reviews
The public reviews for MacDonald Academy are overwhelmingly positive, with parents particularly praising the instructors' ability to build confidence in their children and maintain high standards while being patient and encouraging. Many reviewers mention their children's enjoyment of classes and the positive impact on both physical skills and character development.
Last Updated 2 Mar 2025

Instructors

Brian and Tara MacDonald are highly respected instructors who are frequently praised for their patience, expertise, and ability to connect with students of all ages. They are described as kind, genuine, and dedicated teachers who maintain high standards while creating a supportive learning environment.

Facility

While specific details about the facility are limited in the reviews, the academy appears to maintain a clean, safe training environment. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they implemented strong safety protocols that made parents feel comfortable bringing their children for training.

Pricing

There is limited information available about pricing, but the academy appears to offer good value based on the positive reviews about the quality of instruction. Parents seem satisfied with what their children gain from the program, suggesting the pricing is reasonable for the quality of training provided.

Facility

Well MaintainedEnough spaceTraining matsChanging areaCOVID safety measures

Gym

Supportive VibeWelcoming VibeExcellent Safety

Instructors

PatientExperiencedSupportiveSkilledGood with children

Classes

GiKids ClassesAdult friendly

Pricing

Good ValueFree trial

While not explicitly mentioned in reviews, many martial arts schools offer introductory trials, and the academy appears welcoming to new students.

Location

Limited ParkingAverage Accessibility

Opening Hours

Open now
Monday 1 - 9PM
Tuesday 1 - 9PM
Wednesday 1 - 9PM
Thursday (Today)1 - 9PM
Friday 1 - 9PM
Saturday 8AM - 1PM
Sunday Closed

Location

The academy is located in Watertown, Massachusetts, but specific details about its accessibility or parking situation are not mentioned in the reviews.

Address

6 Riverside St, Watertown, MA 02472

Website

https://www.bmdacademy.com/

Phone

+1 617-923-4248

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this academy good for children who are shy or lack confidence?

Yes, multiple reviews specifically mention how the instructors have helped shy or nervous children gain confidence over time through patient and supportive teaching.

Do they offer martial arts training for different age groups?

Yes, they offer programs for various age groups, with specific mention of youth programs and classes that accommodate different skill levels.

What martial arts styles are taught at the academy?

The academy primarily teaches Kenpo Karate and is an official training center for Krav Maga Worldwide. They may offer other martial arts training, but specific information about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu programs is limited.

How do they handle COVID-19 safety?

According to 2021 reviews, the academy implemented strong COVID protocols that made parents feel safe sending their children for training during the pandemic.