Universal Karate Studios, San Antonio

Though the martial arts programs at Universal Karate Studios are based on the belt system, each student is encouraged to progress at their own pace. The philosophy here is not competitive, instead it is focused on personal growth. At the helm of the Studios is Master R.L. Brown, whose black belt denotes 35 years of experience with Korean and Japanese martial arts. A former karate champion and an NCO in the US Army Reserve, he teaches students as young as 5 years old lessons of discipline and respect on the mat. He and his fellow instructors also host after-school sessions to help kids release energy that builds up after sitting still at a desk for eight hours or standing still on the playground during an eight-hour game of freeze-tag.