All the instructors at Show-Me State Martial Arts show great respect to the students and each other. Other schools that we visited seemed to push a more aggressive and competitive martial art style than what we see at SMS Martial Arts. The emphasis at SMS Martial Arts is: through positive reinforcement the students are encourages to do their very best and to always offer support to their classmates. There is certainly some friendly competition, but we have been impressed with the kindness and support the students give each other. It's a great place for kids to observe people respecting and encouraging one another.

The skills that the students learn at Show-Me State Martial Arts are ones that will help them in every aspect of their life. The school emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, showing respect to both instructors and fellow students, having self-discipline, goal setting, showing encouragement and support of others. Through all these things the students gain self-confidence which we believe is the most important thing that our son has learned from Mr. Bufalo and Show-Me State Martial Arts Academy. We feel very fortunate to be a part of such a
wonderful school."

Jami and John Brown
SMS Martial Arts Parents

"I've tried different types of martial arts and have been disappointed to find out that the school cared only about making money and having you sign lengthy, complicated contracts. When I first walked into Show-Me State Martial Arts & Fitness Academy I sensed a different type of atmosphere. The academy is open and clean with every piece of equipment a martial artist needs to advance. When I talked to Master Gary Bufalo I was immediately told everything up front related to prices and contracts (or lack of contracts). Master Bufalo told me early on that his goal is to establish a quality, reputable marital arts school and let me tell you, he has done just that. He personally instructs every class. He is very knowledgeable and gives you a personal attention so that you make the most out of your class time. I can't say enough about what the school has done for me in such a short time, and now I'm glad to say I've found my home in the martial arts world."

We began taking Tae Kwon Do because our son was having some minor conflicts at school with a couple of boys. Mr. Bufalo has taught our sons that the art of self-defense is a combination of physical abilities and internal confidence. They have been taught the self-discipline and the patience to pursue and achieve a long-term goal. They both participate in other sports but each of those activities has a beginning and an end to the season. Tae Kwon Do enhances the overall quality of my children’s lives on a daily basis and has taught them that it requires persistence to achieve something worthwhile. It has made such a dramatic difference in their attitudes towards
overcoming obstacles they face, particularly in their schoolwork. If math is difficult, they don’t say, “I hate math”. They say, “I need a break from this but I know I’ll get it eventually, I just have to keep trying”. If I sense some issue at school is bothering my son I will briefly discuss it with Mr. Bufalo and he will always try to incorporate something about that topic in the evenings lesson.

One thing that I have learned is that your success with Tae Kwon Do is completely dependent on the quality of the instructor. I am not only referring to the instructor’s knowledge of the art of Tae Kwon Do, but to the integrity of the instructor. Tae Kwon Do emphasizes the concept of a high moral code. There are many instructors who will say the words but do not demonstrate it with their actions. Mr. Bufalo is a shining role model for my boys because of his high level of integrity and sense of humanity. I have seen him work with many types of children and he maintains the same level of patience and kindness to all of them in an environment of respect for each individuals needs. Mr. Bufalo teaches the importance of respect but also realizes that you are working with children and you need to make it enjoyable. He continually motivates my children to want to return for the next class.

I am convinced that the confidence gained through Tae Kwon Do training with a top quality instructor like Mr. Bufalo will stay with my children for a lifetime. It carries over to every other aspect of their lives, in school, on the playground and at home and is worth every penny we have
spent."

Roberta Biros
SMS Martial Arts Parent & Student