Testimonies

Warner Sanders

"Master Keller is a true role model for people interested in learning the martial arts. He is a dedicated teacher who allows his students to learn at their own pace. I highly recomend his teaching skills." Warner Saunders

 

Eric Roberts

Dear Master Keller:

As we approach the one-year anniversary of my children's enrollment at Keller's Martial
Arts, I wanted to write you, and let you know how pleased we are with the growth, and
progress that Moriah, and Mateja have shown. Each child has learned skills that we feel
are extremely important to their development as children, including confidence, poise,
and compassion.

My children have learned confidence by practicing the outlined disciplines of aikido, so
that they competently, and assertively use weaponless self-defense principles only your
studio could provide. The poise that each child has grasped as a discipline is one of the
most instrumental skills that they have developed. They have learned that they have a
freedom to explore their emotions, and to use their physical characteristics to the best of
their ability. This poise is most demonstrated while they are grappling in the ring with
another opponent, or during a tournament. Lastly, the skill of compassion is one that we
have seen developed through your studio, as they are part of a team. They have learned
to care about each other, and their classmates. The use of the student creed is a
magnificent tool in teaching the children to respect the art they are learning, and the
proper use of hapkido as a human being.

Therefore, I openly, and honestly recommend your studio, and the disciplines you teach
as exemplary to which any child, or adult would benefit. I look forward to a growing
relationship with you, and your staff as our children's development expands by your
teachings.

May your studio, and your students continue to reflect the exemplary discipline that you,
and your staff employ.

Sincerely Yours,

Eric

Program Director for the Oprah Show

 

Ray Ruiz

I have been studying Hapkido for the past year which doesnot seem very long but I can guarantee you that studying under Mr. Keller has boosted my confidence tremendously. When I first came to see about joining this school there was a class going on and obviously they were working on various techniques. It seemed intimidating at first since I have never studied martial arts or never thrown a kick in my life, but I knew that in the environment of law enforcement this school would only benefit the skills needed to defend myself out in the field. I am not the most agile guy when it comes to moves like those but under the tutelage of Mr. Keller I am confident enough to achieve anything that I am being taught here at the school. Not only are you learning an art but also learning techniques that you can relate to any situation that you face out there in the real world. Mr. Keller breaks everything down and only teaches you things that are going to work in any hostile situation, There is nothing fancy with the moves which is why I love coming to class and knowing that I am being trained to my full potential at Kellers, Under the keen eye of Mr. Keller and his instructors every move is explained in theory to help you understand this fine art of Hapkido. Mr. Keller provides a good relaxing environment to work out, learn to discipline yourself, achieve confidence in yourself, meet good people to train with, and I look forward to training with Mr. Keller for many years to come.

sincerely,

Ray Ruiz
Juvenile Detention Officer

 

Paula Zaloga-Nowak

My name is Paula Zaloga-Nowak. I have studied a few different Martial Arts for just over none years. Having experience in Shotokan Karate and Kuk Sool, I prefer to remain with the art of Hapkido. This art covers just about everything whereas many other arts do not. It focuses on practical techniques that you can actually use on the street. Hapkido has provided me with confidence, a sense of security as well as kept me in shape.

I have attended a number of different schools, John DePasquale’s Karate, Hyun’s Hapkido, You’s Hapkido Academy and Ma’s Kuk Sool Academy and found Keller’s to be the best! It has a very friendly, non-competitive and relaxed atmosphere. Each class keeps my interest. I leave knowing I have accomplished something!

 

John Connolly

From: John Connolly
To: kellersma1@core.com
Sent: Thursday, April 17, 2003 12:05 PM
Subject: A note to Master Keller from a former student

Dear Master Keller,
My name is John Connolly. I was a student of your school for about 5-6 months, a couple years ago. I have since moved to Seattle. I am writing to say "Thank you." I came across your website and remembered my training at your school. You may remember me.
I was with Hyun's Hapkido shortly before joining your school. I had to leave Hyun's just a few weeks before testing for my black belt, due to an instructor maliciously gouging my eye because I resisted a technique too well when asked to resist. The teacher who gouged my eye (leaving me with a scratched cornea) had been systematically abusing me and others for about 6 months (I guess he was getting cabin fever from working 6 days a week, early morning through late evening.) I had no support where I thought I had a solid extended family situation. When I brought the problem to Hyun, he wanted me to continue, saying "Koreans don't wrestle" as an excuse for this teacher's assault on me (I guess he never heard of Yudo or Ssireum.) It was clear from his attitude that he was more interested in getting the balance of my contract and testing fees, than in my well being or good training. Hyun was much more interested in his profits than in keeping students, so I left. I was also forced by Hyun's greed to take legal steps to get out of my contract, which he sent to collections after agreeing to let me out of it! This was a huge disappointment for me, as I was with that school for about 4 1/2 years. So much for a family atmosphere!
I tried training with a couple other Hapkido/Kuk Sool places in town, but was put in a white belt and subjected to very low level training (in my opinion, a not-too-subtle effort to collect belt testing fees and prolong contracts.) It was extremely frustrating to be "shown" techniques (often performed incorrectly) by students that I should have probably been teaching. What a disheartening experience. I almost gave up on Hapkido (I had previous training in Muay Thai and Wing Chun), but I really felt an affinity for it, so I had to keep searching... That's when I found Keller's Martial Arts. Man, was I ever bitter by the time I got to you! But you really helped me get back into training. You let me continue training at a higher level, even permitting me to wear a brown belt (I had a red belt w/ Hyun, but that translated to brown with your belt system.) This symbolic gesture made me incredibly grateful. I loved the attitude at your school. I really appreciated the relaxed, informal, but mutually respectful atmosphere there. I respected your willingness to get on the mat and roll with your students. I also really valued my experience with training with your actual fighters. I liked that you made the smart addition of ground fighting to your school's curriculum. Over all, it was a great experience. I felt re-invigorated about martial arts. I was sad to leave your school when I moved out of town. I am living in Seattle now. The Hapkido schools here are pretty much just TKD schools that added a few joint locks and throws to their curriculum. But luckily, I have found a very good and reputable Aikijujutsu teacher who I am studying under, refining and developing further the skills I learned in Hapkido. And in true Keller's Martial Arts spirit, I am also training with a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu club. Basically, I just wanted you to know that I deeply appreciate my experience with Keller's Martial Arts . Although I only trained at your school for a short time, it was very valuable for keeping my enjoyment of martial arts alive, and for helping me grow as a martial artist.

 

Israel Munoz

My name is Israel Munoz and I am a fourth degree Black Belt with the World Ki-do Federation. I began taking martial arts in 1980 at the Hapkido institute of Self Defense; that is where I met instructor Gary Keller. I was very impressed with instructor Keller’s focus, intensity and dedication towards the art of Hapkido. I had the privilege to continue studying under the guidance of head instructor Gary Keller for the next 12 years.

After 14 years of studying at the Hapkido Institute of Self Defense, I continued my Hapkido training at You’s Hapkido Academy; where I was head instructor for 4 years. Due to a change in management I decided to leave You’s Hapkido Academy at which time I joined Keller’s Hapkido.

Hapkido is a way of life for me. It fulfills my aggressive needs in every way, it builds up my confidence and makes me a better all around individual.

Keller’s Hapkido is a no-nonsense school. At Keller’s Hapkido, if instructor Keller feels that a technique in not practical for street defense he will not incorporate it into his teachings. At Keller’s Hapkido your options are unlimited, from simply learning street self defense to high intensity competition fighting, it is your choice.

In my opinion, Keller’s Hapkido is the right choice.

 

Dave Nolan

I first heard of Keller's Martial Arts from a friend who had trained under Master Keller for several years. Having trained Tae Kwon Do and kickboxing for many years myself, I was looking to become a more well rounded fighter by learning hapkido and ground technique.  Keller's was the right choice.

In the eight months I have trained at Keller's, I have been extremely pleased with the self-defense knowledge I have gained. Keller's teaches real world self defense, no fluff, and no gimmicks. This is not the watered down "feel good" martial arts taught in many schools today. Instead, it is practical, effective self- defense that works in the street.

At Keller's each student can tailor his or her martial arts training to best suit their needs. Whether you are a beginner looking to get in shape and learn some self- defense, or an experienced martial artist trying to sharpen your skills, Keller's has much to offer you. The blend of styles taught at Keller's (hapkido, kickboxing, ju jitsu, amis, and others) can teach something new to even the most experienced black belt.

I would recommend Keller's Martial Arts to anyone who wants to get in shape and learn effective self-defense. The atmosphere at Keller's is relaxed and friendly, The instructors are very knowledgeable and always willing to help. The only thing holding you back is you. All you need to get started is an open mind and a desire to learn. I drive over 30 miles to attend class at Keller's, and I really believe it is worth it. Give it a try and you will discover what I and many others have- that Keller's is the best.

 
Dave Nolan

 

Colleen Helmken

From: Colleen Helmken
To: kellersma1@core.com
Subject testimonial
Date: Friday, June 14, 2002 7:00 AM

Hi Guys,
Sorry its taken so long, I've written this in my head several times now;
The only way to get results is with hard work. Working out at at Keller"s was a very successful experience for me. I put in the effort and the time and the school gave me support, motivation and the tools I needed to take better care of my body. The tools are lifelong lessons, that I can take
with me anywhere, as long as I continue to invest the time and effort. Keller's makes it easy to workout. the hard part is just showing up, but it's such a family like community that even that part is easy. I am very satisfied with the goals I've attained while training at the school both physically and mentally!

 

Lawrence Manetti

Saint Joseph School
5641 South 73rd Avenue
Summit, Illinois 60501
August 24, 2001

To Whom It May Concern:

I have known Master Gary Keller since March of 1994 when my eldest son and I began studying hapkido at Keller's Hagkido. At that time my son was 8 1/2 and one of the few children that Master Keller trained.

     Hapkido is a martial art that not only trains one in self defense but helps the individual to gain confidence in him/herself and the ability to better focus on what one is doing. It was these latter two qualities that lead my wife and I to decide to enroll our son in hapkido. Afta attending the first class with him I also decided to begin studying hapkido for the workout one receives and also the fun.

     Master Keller showed great patience when working with my son and always made sure that he understood that what he learned at his martial arts class was not for the playground. I found that Lawrence gained self confidence, concentration, and better self control.

     Recently, Master Keller began classes for children. I observed one of those classes and was amazed at the patience he had in instructing the 25 students in front of him. As a principal of a Catholic Elementary School 1 have not seen many physical education teachers with the ability to give instruction to an individual child and still observe what other children in the class are doing.

     Beside Master Keller's ability to insruct children, another big difference from Keller's Hapkido and other martial arts schools that serve children from my school is the understanding the children attending Keller's have that martial arts is first and foremost a self defense. That hapkido can be a competitive sportwith the proper equipment and supervision, but has absolutely no place on the school playground.

     About four months ago my wife and I decided to bring our younger son to Keller's Hapkido. In the short time he has attended we have seen a difference in his self confidence and ability to concentrate. When I have spoken with other parents that have their children enrolled at Keller's, they also agree that greater self esteem and confidence are definitely a byproduct of studying at Keller's Hapkido.

     I live in North Riverside and at least one day a week make 15 mile drive to Keller's Hapkido with my two sons. I strongly feel the other martial arts schools in our area cannot match the training they and I receive at Keller's Hapkido. I would strongly recommend Keller's Hapkido and Master Gary Keller to anyone interested in studying the martial arts.

Sincerely
Lawrence Manetti

 

Colleen V

Chicago, Illinois
Dear Mr, Keller,

I want to take this opportunity to thank you for all of your dedication and hard work in helping with the children, especially my two sons Mario and Andolino. Before we came to your school, my sons were suffering from ADD (attention deficit disorder). My oldest son Mario is so proud that he came in third place at the jujitsu 2001, that he is just beside himself. No medication in the world could have helped the way you do. You really take the time to know each child individually, and really are a dedlicated teacher. My sons and myself have benifited from your school tremendously.

I cannot thank you enough Mr. Keller, my children will have a lifetime of  benefit from attending your classes. I will forever recommend you to other parents with hyperactive kids also.

Sincerely

 

Valerie

My name is Valerie and I am from Ireland. I moved to Chicago in January of
this year. I began this class in mid-February and have been going either two
or three times every week. I chose this course initially because I live nearby
and I was given very reliable information that it was an excellent way to
exercise. I also wanted to do this type of course to practice self-defense in
order to have the capability of protecting myself if any unfortunate
circumstances were to arise.
Since I have started this course I feel stronger and more confident, and I find
the workout to be a good form of exercise to both lose weight and tone up all
of your muscles, even some you thought you didn't have. The trainers are great
and are friendly and helpful and only shout for encouragement and motivation,
I promise. The class is very enjoyable and it is the first time that I have
personally enjoyed working out. Also because there are small numbers in
each class, the trainers are very attentive. If you are still not sure, you can
always come down and watch us one day.

 

 

Reviews found as of January 13, 2009

Blake Carver

Florida`s new Hapkido Grandmaster Pure Hapkido has come to Florida.I am one of Grandmaster Kellers Blackbelt instructors from Chicago and I can tell you that Chicago`s martial arts communities has lost one our best to the sunshine state.If you are interested in pure street level self defense Grandmaster Keller is who you need to study with. Don`t worry he creates a fun environment that fosters learning.He will bring out the best in you.

Blake Carver
Chicago USA February 02, 2009 by Blake Carver in Chicago, IL

 

Lea Keller

To: Grandmaster Keller
I have Know GM Keller my whole life, he's my dad. GM Keller is an amazing instructor, and a wonderful father. He teaches with such a fun and great style. If you want a class that you can really learn somthing and have fun doing it you should take his class. He is such a down to earth guy. Its a shame that he moved to FL, I know all the students that he had here in Chicago miss him dearly. I dont think that there is any instructor that could take his place.

January 24, 2009
by Lea Keller in Elk Grove Village, IL

 

Richard Lazar

Chicago's Loss is Tampa's Gain I walked into Grand Master Keller's studio shortly after he opened in Chicago almost 20 years ago. I was impressed with his high energy teaching style, variety of techniques and overall atmosphere in the school, so I signed up. What started as a whim bacame a lifelong endeavor. I consider Gary Keller a friend and mentor and wish him the best in his new school.

January 21, 2009 by Richard Lazar in Chicago, IL

 

Kyle Hensgen

A magical place in Chicago moved to Florida Awesome website! Grand Master Gary Keller obviously hit the ground running in Florida. I met Keller through the martial arts Hapkido grapevine in 1995 - and what a strange and great trip it's been since. He's taken me from Marine Core wrestling to the greatness of stepping between the mixed martial arts ropes. The only time I lost a fight is when I didn't follow his instruction. He went from mentor to becoming a great friend. The magic of his studio went away when he moved to Florida. I count myself lucky to have known him and been his student. You'd be lucky to have this great man as an insturctor.

January 13, 2009 by Kyle Hensgen in Lisle, IL

 

GM Billy Lee Burchett

To: Grandmaster Kellers Martial Arts
GM Gary Keller has been a martial artist for almost 40 years and a friend to me for at least 30. He enjoys teaching a variety of martial arts and offers training to adults only. His expertise is in Hapkido, often promotes MMA fighters in different events around the world. His expertise and style is unique and a reflection of a true Grand Master. GM Keller, I, and a group of other people traveled to China as one of the first to offer Hapkido training to the Chinese people. The martial arts community gave us a very warm welcome, and while there we were given the opportunity to also train at the famous Shaolin Temple. I highly recommend GM Keller, his years of expertise will give you the hands on training you need, to build your self confidence, and teach you how to defend yourself and your loved ones.GM Keller offers class setting for group training or if you prefer he can train you one on one. He also offers national and international seminars for those who are interested.

January 13, 2009 by GM Billy Lee Burchett in Lakeland, FL

 

Testimonial ..............From John Neal regarding his son Owen

We took classes or should I say participated in a life
changing event from Master Keller in Chicago. FL is extremely lucky to
have him. We wish him the best.

Thanks again for all you have done for Owen. We drive by the Irving
Park place ocassionaly and always talk about how great of a teacher
you are.

Neal Family (Owen)