Business Details
48 Years
experience
Your Trusted Martial Arts School in Lafayette, LA
Acadiana Karate has been a cornerstone of martial arts excellence in Lafayette since 1978. Founded by Shihan Pablo Mejia, we empower individuals of all ages through structured, age-appropriate classes that foster discipline, confidence, and physical fitness. Our programs cater to children as young as 4 through adults, emphasizing traditional techniques alongside modern training methodologies. We prioritize a supportive environment where students develop not only martial arts skills but also essential life values like respect, integrity, and perseverance.With over four decades of experience, we remain committed to community-building, offering flexible schedules and top-notch facilities that make martial arts accessible to families. Our instructors, recognized for their expertise and dedication, have transformed countless students' lives, helping them overcome challenges and achieve personal growth. As a trusted local institution, we continue to focus on holistic development, ensuring every student gains the tools to succeed both inside and outside the dojo.
Services
Little Ninjas
Kids Martial Arts
Teens Martial Arts
Adult Martial Arts
Summer Martial Arts
Details
- Year established: 1978
Highlights and features
- Over 45 years of experience as Lafayette's longest-running martial arts school
- Structured, age-appropriate classes for children, teens, and adults
- Focus on life skills like discipline, respect, and emotional intelligence
- Flexible schedules designed for real family lifestyles
- Proven track record of transforming students' confidence and behavior
What people say
Loves this place
Better attitude
Progressively disciplined
Excellent physical fitness
Confident and strong
Services
Little Ninjas
Our Little Ninjas program (ages 4-6) combines fun and structure to teach foundational martial arts skills while developing coordination, focus, and confidence. Through engaging activities and expert guidance, children learn respect, discipline, and social skills in a safe, supportive environment that prepares them for future success.
Kids Martial Arts
Designed for ages 7-12, our Kids Martial Arts program builds confidence, physical fitness, and self-defense skills. Students develop discipline and leadership through structured lessons that emphasize character development, teamwork, and goal-setting while mastering traditional karate techniques in a positive, encouraging atmosphere.
Teens Martial Arts
Teens Martial Arts (ages 13+) focuses on emotional intelligence, physical development, and self-defense. This program helps adolescents navigate life transitions through challenging workouts, leadership opportunities, and character-building exercises that foster resilience, confidence, and personal responsibility in a supportive community setting.
Adult Martial Arts
Our Adult Martial Arts classes provide a comprehensive fitness solution combining self-defense training, stress relief, and community engagement. Participants of all skill levels improve strength, flexibility, and mental focus while learning practical self-defense techniques in a welcoming environment that promotes personal growth and lifelong learning.
Summer Martial Arts
The Summer of Martial Arts is a four-week introductory program offering a full immersion in our core values and techniques. Designed for all ages, this intensive experience builds confidence, physical fitness, and discipline through daily classes that teach self-defense, respect, and goal-setting in a fun, structured environment.
People
Shihan Pablo Mejia
Founder
With over 45 years of martial arts experience, Shihan Pablo Mejia established Acadiana Karate in 1978. His vision combines traditional karate techniques with modern teaching methods to create a program that develops character, discipline, and physical fitness in students of all ages.
Sensei Stacy
Instructor
Sensei Stacy is known for her dedication to student development, emphasizing respect and self-discipline. With years of teaching experience, she creates engaging classes that help students build confidence and life skills while mastering martial arts techniques.
Sensei Kelly
Instructor
Sensei Kelly has been with Acadiana Karate for over 14 years, serving as parent, student, and instructor. She focuses on personalized guidance, helping students achieve excellence while maintaining a strong emphasis on character development and community values.
Questions
What age groups do you accept?
We offer programs for children as young as 4 through adult classes, with age-specific curricula designed to meet developmental needs.
What benefits can I expect from martial arts training?
Students develop discipline, confidence, physical fitness, self-defense skills, and improved social skills through our structured programs.
Are trial classes available?
Yes, our Summer of Martial Arts program offers a four-week trial experience to test our curriculum and community.
What makes Acadiana Karate unique?
We combine traditional karate techniques with modern teaching methods, emphasizing character development alongside physical training since 1978.
How do you handle different skill levels?
Our classes accommodate all skill levels, with progression based on individual readiness and achievement of specific milestones.
What community events do you offer?
We host special events throughout the year, including back-to-school parties and family-oriented activities that build community connections.