As a US Army veteran I was looking for something I could do with my three younger children that would benefit them for life.  They are all responsible adults now, and sometimes they refer to Mr. Touchton and the life lessons they learned in Karate classes. If its classes for your children you cannot find a more trusting man than retired and decorated Tampa Police Officer Jon Touchton.  If the class is for you as well, you will not find a more patient instructor.  He defies the old adage that you can’t teach old dogs new tricks. It was sad for our family when we had to move from Tampa because of my job, but my children have the memories and the life lessons learned from Jon’s Martial Arts teaching and I still have a lifelong long distance friend.

 

Greg Sylvester

Old Bridge, New Jersey

 

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Sandie and I had a marvelous time in the Karate classes for a period of about five years, and we learned a lot of really neat stuff.  It took us quite a while to work our way up to a first degree brown belt, due to various health issues and injuries.  Mr Touchton used to get a big kick out of the fact that Sandie and I were seventy one years old and still breaking boards in his class.  We had to more or less quit Karate when I fell at work and broke my neck.  Mr Touchton is a wonderful Karate teacher, and I boast of his teaching every chance I get.  Because of Mr. Touchton, I bet we can still break boards evev though I am now seventy four and Sandie is seventy five.

 

Former students;

 

Robert and Sandra Eames

 

 

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My name is Steve Channels and I wanted to take a moment to tell you how great Mr. Jon Touchton and Paladin Karate have been to my son.  My son Austin joined Paladin Karate with Mr. Touchton when  was 6 years old.  He loved it and wanted to continue doing it.  He started at the beginner white belt and he is now 14 and has his black belt.  That might seem young, but he was dedicated to learning everything he could and Mr. Touchton was more than happy to teach him.

 

Time and time again, when Austin needed help, Mr. Touchton was there to help him.  Austin still loves going to class very much to this day when he is not camping with the Boy Scouts. Not only has Austin learned physical fitness and self defense, but the class goes way beyond that!!

 

Austin has learned how to handle things in public.  How to handle various situations.  How to use manners and be a respectful young man and citizen. 

 

The class has a Christian element, so Austin was able to tell good news in his life and ask for prayer when needed.

Nowhere else can you get the type of lifelong skills that Paladin Karate teaches at an amazing value. 

I can’t say enough about Sensei Touchton and how he really wants to teach people to protect themselves from evil and to be a good person.

 

If you want an amazing instructor that knows his stuff, an amazing value and a class that teaches respect and discipline, then Paladin Karate is for you!!

 

Sincerely,

Steve Channels (Father of 14 year old)

 

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Jon is a police officer and I found his teachings to be very practical leveraging his experience as a law officer.  He provides real live situations and teaches the kids how to respond to them.  My 7-year old Jasmin loves attending his classes !

 

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My two children and I have been taking karate classes from Jon Touchton for over a year and a half.  With the classes being a variety of skill and age levels, it greatly increases the collaborative learning efforts between students.  It is very usual to see children with higher-rank belts assisting the adults with lower-rank belts learn new steps and combinations.  It is also very usual to see adults of all ranks helping children of all ranks practice moves that the entire class is taught.  The class is a combination of martial arts and self-defense, with a very great emphasis on how to avoid situations that would require physical confrontation, while still knowing how to defend oneself if that were to happen.

 

During that time that my children and I have attended class, I have seen my son (who is now 7) develop a greater sense of compassion for others.  My daughter (who is now 11) has a greatly improved sense of balance and coordination.  They’ve both learned self-control, and a respect for their own strength.  As for me, as a single mother, I’ve gained a level of confidence that I did not previously have, and feel comfortable knowing that I can defend myself if I need to.  There’s also the added benefit that I come out of each class exhausted from an outstanding workout.

 

I highly recommend Paladin karate to anyone, regardless of skill level or age.  Jon is endlessly patient, and is always willing to work one-on-one with anyone who asks for help.  The class is hugely beneficial to all participants, and is also a lot of fun.  My children and I have all made friends in the class, and we look forward to attending each week.

 

Karen Sutherland

 

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My son has been taking Paladin Karate/Christian American Karate for about 5 years, and now my daughter is enrolled as well.  The karate instruction has been phenomenal.  However, what sets Mr. Touchton apart are the extras.  In addition to teaching karate, Mr. Touchton has been instrumental in helping to reinforce those values that I teach at home: 

 

•          work hard

•          do things the right way

•          always be the “good guy” 

•          look to end the fight

•          smart and effective personal defense

•          respect, obedience, Christian values

 

Mr. Touchton gives the utmost care and importance to teaching students how to defend themselves and others in many different types of situations.  As a retired police officer, his emphasis is always on training the students to be able to act smartly in real life situations.  This includes repetitive training so that students learn to act, rather than to freeze up when startled by a sudden confrontation or situation. 

 

 I can’t say enough how valuable this class has been for my children and I’ve learned a lot just by sitting in and watching!

 

 Kendra L. Butler

 

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What makes Paladin Karate extraordinary is without a doubt Master Jon Touchton.  His technique is phenomenal, and his kindness and integrity are truly exceptional.  Our son attended classes from Middle School through High School, and into college years.  He is now a second degree black belt.  Our family went through a very difficult time and Master Touchton stepped in to help in many ways, and played a key mentoring role for our son.  He built up his self-confidence and resilience while kicking stacked boards, sparring and going through the various martial arts forms.  His support and encouragement of students shines through.  We have been blessed to have Master Touchton be a part of our son’s growth into a young man.  We encourage your family to benefit from Master Touchton’s knowledge and character through Paladin Karate classes. 

 

Elena & Juan Quiroz

 

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Our daughter started at Paladin Karate in the 1st grade and I can't say enough great things about the experience.  Mr. Touchton was great with her from the very first class that we tried.  I feel confident that she has learned more than just some Karate moves.  She is learning when to defend herself and/or someone else.  She is learning to be aware of her surroundings.  She is learning how to work with her peers and to be respectful of others.  She's learned much more than we thought she would when we initially decided to try a class.  Mr. Touchton has always been very approachable and it is clear that he truly cares for each and every child in his class.  Our experience with Paladin Karate has been fantastic!  

 

The Boyd Family

 

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My daughter and son have been taking karate with Jon Touchton at Paladin Karate for over 4 years.  They have learned a tremendous amount of self-control and defensive fighting skills throughout the years.  They have progressed through the belts and with each new belt acquired, I have seen their self-confidence soar and their skills enhanced. 

In particular, my daughter is 11 years old and will be testing for her Black Belt Recommended in September 2015.  She is one of the smallest children in her grade, but can kick through 2 boards (full 1” thick boards from Home Depot) and is able to spar with the boys in class (and often wins).  Also, she has learned, through slow progression, the important lesson of how to fight through pain.

 

Jon Touchton is a phenomenal instructor.  He is patient with the students, yet firm in his requirement that they exhibit respect and discipline as they move up in belt color.  He teaches all the basics of karate including forms, one-steps, kicks, sparring, holds, escapes, strength exercises, etc.   He also spends time focusing on self-defense and role-playing situations involving stranger safety and bullying in school.  His emphasis is in using your brain, assessing a situation, and making the smartest choice.  If you have to fight, then you have the skills to protect yourself.  A question on every test is “What is the best type of fighting?  Answer:  Not fighting.”  However, he also spends time teaching ethics, morals, and good character.

Not only have my children thoroughly enjoyed the class over the years, but they have learned so much.  I have a deep sense of security knowing that, as they get older, they will be able to be smart in situations when I am not with them and defend themselves if necessary. 

 

My daughter intends to continue her training with Paladin Karate and hopes to continue to earn degrees on her black belt. 

Please feel free to call me with any questions.

 

--Jade McKendree-Smith

 

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My name is German H. Three months ago my wife and I signed up our grandson to attend the Paladin Karate.  He goes to the Friday class which is great for him.  Mr. Touchton has a melting pot of students from all races, boys and girls, young and old and my grandson loves his class.  He looks forward to Fridays class all week.  Now when he is watching videos online it is usually one of the many “you tube “ videos of Paladin Karate available online. Mr. Touchton is deadly, but not with kids, he is a kind, generous and gentle man that cares about kids and their self-defense.  Passionate about martial arts, but caring, and patient with kids.  I recommend his class to anyone looking for an activity to enroll their kids in, you won’t regret it!

 

--German Hernandez , March 2016

 

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We, (myself and my two daughters) are the proud students of ‘Paladin Karate Martial Arts' school and blessed to have Master Jonathan Touchton as our principal instructor.

 

I have known Mr. Touchton for over 3 years and have found him to be very reliable with sound martial arts knowledge, hard working with kids/ adults, honest in teaching and providing feedback to students, conscientious with martial arts techniques and courteous too. In simple words, Mr. Touchton is humble and brilliant.

 

The Paladin Karate classes are well structured and designed to address the philosophy of Christian American Karate. The students are enthusiastic to learn and progress at their own pace with weekly/ bi-weekly practical classes and online videos for each level.

 

I feel that a physically strong person can be mentally weak and act insane in life threatening situations. Isn’t it important to protect oneself, family and also to defend the weak and innocent ? Yes indeed…if you have the right mindset, knowledge, skill and techniques to act / react in such situations (whether it’s at school, gas station, shopping mall, public washrooms and public places). I assure that each and every student of Mr. Touchton is beyond the normal standards of self-defense, safety and the aptness to act in prudent manner. Therefore, it’s not only the partial sessions and written test required to attain martial arts skill and techniques , but sharing real-life experience (as being a Senior Cop), lectures, role plays… helps to overcome odd situations and facilitate to achieve the high level of discipline in life.

 

Mr. Touchton as an usher and martial arts coach/ instructor, helped myself and my kids to be healthy, focus on core principles (courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit), learnt to be humble and, defend the weak and innocent.

I trust that the information provided will be of assistance and will be happy to provide further information, if required.

 

Regards - Dr. Anand Gudaru

 

 

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Paladin Karate has been one of the best experiences for myself and for my family. My two sons and I looked forward to practice every week, and we enjoyed the bonding experience within our family as well with other classmates. Sensei Jon has developed a program that will be a blessing and a challenge to people of all ages and on their level. His program will teach you to master the basics elements of karate, to defend your self with both knowledge and ability, and to become a stronger, healthier person. His experience as a police officer has given insight into self-defense that other programs just do not have. Jon shows a genuine interest in the well-being of each student and their family. Jon has a gift to engage adults where they are in life as well as interact with youth and children in a positive and friendly way. He is a family man, a true patriot, and a genuine Christian. We are so blessed and fortunate to have him as our instructor and our friend. 

 

Respectfully submitted by Noah (Green Belt), Christian (3rd Degree Brown Belt), & Mike T. (3rd Degree Brown Belt)

 

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Paladin Karate has been a great experience for my daughter, who has been taking classes for almost two years. She is 11 years old and already a purple belt. Paladin teaches the values of keeping peace/avoiding confrontation if possible, being aware of your surroundings, and staying safe. Mr. Touchton emphasizes fitness for the body and spirit and my daughter's confidence and abilities have really flourished in this class. Mr. Touchton has a great way of explaining different techniques or situations to young kids and adults alike. There is no doubt in my mind that my daughter is safer having taken this class. 

-Susan Boyle

 

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The Lindenmuth Family Experience with Jon Touchton started the day my family, wife Christi (1st Degree Black Belt), daughter Kelly (Black Belt), sons Jason (1st degree Brown Belt) & Jarrod (3rd degree Brown Belt) and myself began our ten year journey into martial arts.  I really wanted to know that my family could defend themselves as well as others, especially my wife & daughter.

 

Jon Touchton is a humble and most honorable man, whose real life experiences are conveyed in class. The symbol of the Paladin truly represents Jon’s life not only in service but in the instruction of others.

 

His experience helps children as well as adults to be more aware of their surroundings and to avoid getting into an aggressive situation but if unavoidable he teaches the skills to defend oneself.

 

Tae-kwon-do is at the heart but facets of Judo, Jujitsu, and many other types of martial arts are blended to form a very formidable curriculum.  My family has the utmost respect for Mr. Touchton and I as a father am eternally grateful for what he has taught my family.

 

Harry W. Lindenmuth (Black Belt)

 

 

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                                                                            Paladin Defensive Arts Testimonial

                                                                        By: Matias Quiroz, 2nd degree Black Belt

 

            I have trained under Master Jon Touchton for eight years and can undoubtedly testify to the world-class standards and training he provides at Paladin Defensive Arts. The rigorous and rewarding curriculum under Master Touchton heightens awareness of one’s surroundings, cultivates mental discipline, and is physically strengthening. The real-world training simulates actual, realistic conflict in thoroughly developed scenarios, Master Touchton’s experience as a Police Officer generates an element of truth to the conflicts he advises on. Furthermore, an actively aware mindset is carefully crafted during training; this form of thinking allows for the application of self-defense principles outside of an immediate physical conflict and introduces the idea of a moral use of force. 

 

            The standards presented and upheld by Master Touchton at Paladin Defensive Arts encourage the learning process and creates a high-quality hierarchy of ranks. In order to earn my 1st Degree under Master Touchton, I was tested on all the material I learned throughout my entire training under him: at every belt. This means that a test from any belt to another includes all the material of all previous ranks in addition to any new forms or lessons and all self-defense material. It required nearly a decade of training for me to become a proficient in the basics. As a result, belts are not given by merit; they are earned through perseverance and mastery.

 

                 The emphasis of character Master Touchton includes in martial arts training produces a sound mind, body, and heart; even further: an indomitable spirit. Classes aren’t simply hours of sweat and fighting, they are wonderful experiences teaching humility, kindness, and dedication; all in a family-friendly environment. Paladin Defensive Arts is true to its name, as a Paladin is essentially a righteous warrior; the lessons reflect a guiding principle of respect, benevolence, and being strong in spirit. Master Touchton mentors his students beyond the class floor, rewarding good behavior and grades while consulting with any concerns parents have. He does not tolerate misbehavior or arrogance and is always willing to help in any way he can. You will find Master Jon Touchton to be an amazing instructor with a positive influence and an open mind. I hope that you try out Paladin Defensive Arts!

 

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   I could not possibly hold Mr. Touchton and Paladin Karate in any higher esteem than I already do. I started classes with Mr. Touchton when I was around 15 and it truly changed my life. I was never a bad kid but I did not possess real discipline until I began to take classes. Inevitably, the disciplines that you learn through his classes will beautifully translate into other life skills. With Mr. Touchton, it wasn't about just ranking up. He genuinely cares about his students and about their lives outside of class. He knows that success in one area will often times lead to more confidence and success in other areas. Unfortunately, after several years of classes, I moved away from the area. But I would not hesitate for one minute to enroll my son (and re-enroll myself) if I lived nearby. Joining class and learning from this talented man is something you will never regret!

 

--Rachel Andrews, Georgia

 

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"This is a little known gem in the city of Tampa. My kids love this place. Very family oriented.  They enjoy coming here not only to practice karate but to learn other important things in life, like discipline, focus, and bits of moral wisdom. Jonathan is great with kids. He teaches street self-defense along with karate. The price is beyond fair and much lower than you would expect for this expert level of instruction. Also, there are no long term contracts, which is great."
Regards,

 

--Anna (Krupitsky)

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My kids and I love Paladin Karate. Sensei Jon teaches a mixture of martial arts with real world appreciation of the different techniques. I like that he is not nitpicky over tiny details (can you do a perfect crane kick) but instead focuses on showing us how to think, react, and fight efficiently and effectively under pressure.

He keeps class fun while at the same time encouraging his students to have upright moral characters and integrity.

 

 

--Rose Munoz

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Coach Touchton is great at working with people of all ages and is so amazing at teaching mixed martial arts based on Karate principles and achievements. He will instill awareness into your life along with the practical skills to survive adverse situations! My kids have gone there for years, as have I. He's the best around and his prior law enforcement expertise only adds to your experience. 

 

--Dan Loesch

 

 

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Where self-defense and martial arts meets protection and helping/loving one another - Paladin Karate embodies true Christian values where Coach Jon not only requires good character but also hard work in order to provide an amazing atmosphere for all ages and abilities. Coach Jon requires putting feet to your faith as students learn morals and proper restraint but also when to use proper technique for protection and safety of others. The quality and time spent with my boys individually by Coach Jon has changed them both dramatically. I am so thankful for Coach Jon and the opportunity Paladin Karate has offered my sons and what they are to become.

Annie Franklin
Challenge II Director
Classical Conversations Greater Brandon

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My four children, my husband and I love Paladin Karate!  Master Jon has a wonderful gift at teaching all skill levels together while integrating integrity and self-discipline.  He brings his experience as a retired police officer into class and teaches practical karate skills with realistic situations.  We have gained so much confidence through Master Jon’s teaching! He has been a blessing to our family!

 

Ginny Becker 

 

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