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-Tae Kwon Do, Judo, and Kendo — and attend classes at a CA fitness club near you.

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-Tae Kwon Do, 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.

Tae Kwon Do

This program is part of the United World Martial Arts Association! Tae Kwon Do is a traditional Korean Martial Art known for its flying and spinning kicks. Tae Kwon Do 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

Free trial classes of the new Supreme Sports Club classes will be held on Tuesday, December 10 at the times listed below in the schedule.

DayClass TimeClass LocationClass Type
Monday4:30-5pmColumbia GymTiny Dragons
5-5:30pmColumbia GymTiny Dragons
5:30-6pmColumbia GymLil’ Dragons
6-6:45pmColumbia GymKids’ Beginner/Intermediate Tae Kwon Do
6:45-7:15pmColumbia GymLil’ Dragons
7:15-8pmColumbia GymIntermediate/Advanced Tae Kwon Do
DayClass TimeClass LocationClass Type
Tuesday5-5:30pmSupreme Sports ClubTiny Dragons ***Beginning in January 2020
5:30-6pmSupreme Sports ClubLil’ Dragons ***Beginning in January 2020
6-6:45pmSupreme Sports ClubBeginner Tae Kwon Do (ages 7 and older) ***Beginning in January 2020
7:30-9:30pmColumbia GymKendo
8:30-10pmColumbia Athletic ClubAikido
DayClass TimeClass LocationClass Type
Wednesday5:30-6pmColumbia Athletic ClubLil’ Dragons
6-6:45pmColumbia Athletic ClubKids’ Beginner/Intermediate Tae Kwon Do
6:45-7:30pmColumbia Athletic ClubAdvanced Tae Kwon Do
8:30-10pmColumbia Athletic ClubJudo
DayClass TimeClass LocationClass Type
Thursday5:45-6:30pmColumbia GymBeginner/Intermediate Tae Kwon Do
6:30-7:15pmColumbia GymAdvanced Tae Kwon Do
7:15-8pmColumbia GymFamily Tae Kwon Do
8:30-10pmColumbia Athletic ClubAikido
DayClass TimeClass LocationClass Type
Saturday9-10amColumbia GymTae Kwon Do/Specialty
10-10:30amColumbia GymLil’ Dragons
11am-12:30pmColumbia Athletic ClubAikido
12:30-2pmColumbia Athletic ClubJudo
4:30-6:30pmColumbia GymKendo