Nov 4

Meet Sensei Mike McLaughlin - Karate Classes in Power Ranch Elem., Apache Junction High, Hohokam Elem., & Oak Tree Elem., AZ

At ActivStars, Hanshi Mike McLaughlin brings over three decades of martial arts expertise, shaping countless students through his dedication, skill, and inspiring leadership. With his rich background and dynamic teaching methods, Hanshi Mike’s classes are ideal for families looking for a martial arts program that goes beyond technique, instilling lifelong values and fitness.

Instructor Background

Hanshi Mike holds a 3rd Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo, a 4th Level Black Sash in Arnis, and is a Sifu in Wing Chun within the Ip Man lineage. His training extends across a variety of disciplines, including Jeet Kune Do, Aiki Jujutsu, Judo, Muay Thai, and Goju-Ryu, which he seamlessly incorporates into his classes. Hanshi Mike is also a certified Law Enforcement Tactics Instructor and American Black Ops Combat Arts Instructor, demonstrating his depth of expertise in practical self-defense.

With the honor of training under renowned martial artists Dan Inosanto and Richard Bustillo—original students of Bruce Lee—Hanshi Mike has developed a unique approach, blending the discipline of traditional martial arts with the adaptability of modern techniques. A certified instructor under Grandmaster Bustillo, Hanshi Mike also shares his expertise with Focus Intensity, an 8-time champion demonstration team he coaches with pride.

In addition to his martial arts accomplishments, Hanshi Mike is dedicated to promoting physical fitness and mental well-being. A certified personal trainer with the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), he holds multiple NASM specializations, including MMA Conditioning Specialist, Youth Exercise Specialist, and Weight Loss Specialist. His commitment to health and fitness is evident in every class, as he encourages his students to build both strength and resilience.

Fun Facts About Hanshi Mike

Hanshi Mike’s students know him as a dedicated instructor with a deep respect for the art of teaching. Since joining ActivStars in 1997, he has guided thousands of students, over a hundred of whom have achieved black belts. His dedication to the craft and his students earned him induction into the United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame multiple times (2014, 2015, 2017, and 2018), along with an appointment as Regional Director for the Hall of Fame’s Southwest division in 2017.

Beyond the dojo, Hanshi Mike’s passion for martial arts and fitness continues through his writing. Holding a bachelor’s degree in journalism, he has written extensively on martial arts, sharing insights with readers through various publications. In 2019, his lifelong dedication was further recognized when he was inducted into the Masters Hall of Fame in Costa Mesa, California.

Join Hanshi Mike’s Classes at ActivStars

If you’re looking for a karate or martial arts class near me that provides a holistic approach to martial arts training, Hanshi Mike McLaughlin’s classes at ActivStars are the perfect choice. His combination of technical skills, dedication to fitness, and emphasis on character development makes his classes a transformative experience for students of all ages. Join Hanshi Mike and take the first step toward building confidence, strength, and discipline that lasts a lifetime.

Call (480) 571-7689 For Registration Information

Power Ranch Elementary School

4351 S. Ranch House Pkwy. Gilbert, AZ 85297