Martial Arts Classes are Back at Columbia Gym!

From kids’ karate lessons to self-defense classes for adults, the best martial arts classes are affordable and fun! Columbia Association (CA) offers a variety of martial arts classes for kids, teens, adults, and families. Choose from Aikido, Karate-Taekwondo, Judo, and Kendo — and attend classes at a CA fitness club near you.

Are your kids on their screens all day or spending hours doing virtual learning? Are you looking for ways to get them off their screens and safely doing physical activity? Try CA’s Martial Arts classes for all ages!

Classes are open to both CA members and nonmembers. Classes are offered in two-month sessions.

We’ve put the following safety protocols/procedures in place to ensure the safety of you and your children.

  • Limits on class size.
  • Students are kept 6 feet apart with stickers on the floor.
  • 15 minutes are allotted between classes to clean and sanitize the class area. 
  • No parents are allowed in the room during class. 
  • Parents and kids’ temperatures are taken upon arrival. 
  • Instructors’ temperatures are taking when they arrive to work. 
  • Masks are required to be worn 100% of the time by the instructor and students during class.
  • No physical contact occurs during class.

We are also offering some virtual options for classes. Please contact John Bannon at John.Bannon@ColumbiaAssociation.org or at 410-531-8927.
Virtual options are also open to both CA members and non-members. 

Register Now

Martial Arts For All Ages

Would you like your child to be more active, improve their concentration, and develop better athletic and leadership skills? Try martial arts!

Martial arts can help kids and teenagers:

  • Get active while improving concentration, confidence, self-esteem and self-discipline
  • Improve strength and coordination
  • Develop leadership skills by working their way up to becoming an instructor
  • Earn community service hours through their work as a black belt instructor
  • Put their cell phones down and have fun!

Choose from Aikido, Karate-Taekwondo, Judo, and Kendo. In addition to youth and adult classes (Ages 7- adult), there are programs for Tiny Dragons (ages 2-3), Lil’ Dragons (ages 4-6), and even families. Beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels are all welcome — and select programs even offer a free class.

Whether you’re looking to improve your concentration and agility, or just looking for a new way to have fun and meet some new friends, martial arts classes have a benefit ― and a belt ― for everyone!

For more information or to register, email John.Bannon@ColumbiaAssociation.org or call 410-531-8927.

Aikido (adults only)

Aikido is an ancient, yet modern Japanese Martial Art that involves some throws and joint locks. Aikido focuses not on punches or kicks, but on using opponents’ own energy against them. Positive aspects include self-defense, physical fitness and peace of mind. No experience necessary.

Family Class

Try this fun martial arts class with your child! Ask about our free class.

Judo (adults only)

Judo was created in 1862 by Prof. Jigoro Kano, a Japanese educator, emphasizing throwing and grappling techniques as an effective means of self-defense and physical well-being. In this class, you’ll learn traditional Kodokan Judoin, a relaxed but physically vigorous environment of mutual respect and learning. You’ll gain confidence and improve your physical fitness level. Senior instructor Michael A. Munoz is a 3rd Degree Black Belt with the United States Judo Association. No experience necessary – ask about a free trial class!

Kendo-New to CA! (all ages)

Kendo is the modern Japanese martial art of sword-fighting based on traditional Japanese swordsmanship. You’ll develop agility and quickness, improve your posture and poise, enhance your concentration and decision-making abilities while improving your self-confidence. No experience necessary!

Classes are taught by Sean Kim, 6th Dan/Renshi from Washington Kendo Club. Washington Kendo Club is affiliated and accredited with the International Kendo Federation (IKF), All United States Kendo Federation(AUSKF) and Southeast Kendo Federation (SEUSKF).

Lil Dragons (ages 4-6)

This program for 4-6 year olds will help prepare children for life. They’ll learn discipline, cooperation and respect. Parents and siblings are invited to participate to provide their child with a comfortable family atmosphere.

Mixed Martial Arts

Coming soon to Columbia Athletic Club and Columbia Gym for teens and adults. Mixed martial arts combines Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, judo, kickboxing and other forms of martial arts.

Please continue to check back for updates or call 410-531-8927.

Taekwondo

This program is part of the United World Martial Arts Association! Taekwondo is a traditional Korean Martial Art known for its flying and spinning kicks. Taekwondo provides a fun and progress-oriented experience that will instill a positive attitude, build confidence and self-esteem, develop character, promote the desire to learn, improve motivation and concentration and teach self-discipline and respect. Classes are taught in a safe and friendly environment. Classes are great for kids and adults.

We also offer a fun family class that parents and children can take together. Classes are ongoing-ask our about our monthly deduction plans!

Classes offered are Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced and Family Class.

Tiny Dragons (ages 2-3)

This program for 2-3-year-olds focuses on balance, coordination, basic listening and motor skills through fun drills, games and activities.

Resources

Class Schedules

All classes are being held at Columbia Gym for now. We hope to bring classes back to Columbia Athletic Club and Supreme Sports Club soon. Additionally, we’ve had to postpone the return of some classes, including those for 2-3 years olds for safety reasons.