Martial Arts Schools near Waukegan

“The gym is one of the best for starting your martial arts training. I have been going there for years and the levels of experience the instructor Jose has is incredible valuable. It continues to be a great way to train your mind, body, and spirit with every training session. If you want to make something of yourself or just trying to better yourself, this is the place to go. Be confident, be consistent, and most of all trust Jose as your instructor“

“It’s a really great lace for kids and for all age. It’s great to learn self defense and different skills“

“We’ve been coming here for the past 7–8 years, and it has truly been an incredible journey for our family. Both of my sons started their martial arts training here and have grown tremendously—not just in skill, but in confidence and discipline. One of my children has proudly earned a 3rd degree black belt, and the other has achieved a 1st degree black belt. The instructors are dedicated, patient, and genuinely invested in each student’s progress. The environment is positive, structured, and motivating. We’ve seen firsthand how much this place focuses on character development along with physical training. We’re grateful to be part of such a supportive and inspiring community.“

“I had a great experience in the adult learning classes! First the building and areas are kept nice and clean, as well as the tools/materials. All the instructors and staff were always respectful, patient, and fun to learn from. It’s definitely an active class and hands on, I would recommend to anyone who wants to improve their physical health. I’d also recommend for anyone who wants to get their families involved in learning Jujitsu or Taekwondo, it’s an very family friendly place and close knit which made it all the much more welcoming“

“Northshore Academy of Martial Arts has been an incredible blessing to our family. We’ve been sending our kids there for almost five years now, and three of our four sons are currently enrolled. The youth program led by Alex Jovica is outstanding. His discipline, consistency, and genuine investment in each student’s growth is why we’ve remained committed year after year. The adult kickboxing program with Amir DeLeon has also been a phenomenal outlet for focus, conditioning, and personal development, and it’s been an honor to help prepare one of our kickboxing students for amateur fights.

What truly sets this academy apart is the camaraderie and synergy among the instructors and owners. Guru Mark Halleck, Jason Gough, and the entire team create an environment that feels less like a gym and more like a family. While we’ve dedicated time to specific disciplines, there is always more to learn and that depth keeps us inspired. Our family is half Filipino, so the opportunity to train in Filipino Martial Arts was a major selling point for us. The celebration of intercultural arts and traditions here is second to none in this area. Add in the seasonal celebrations and community festivities, and you have a place that builds strong bodies, strong character, and strong families. We’re truly grateful to be part of it.“

“Lee’s Taekwondo is a really nice place! The instructors are very professional and clearly have a lot of experience. They are extremely patient with the kids, making the classes both fun and educational. You can really see how much they care about each student’s progress. On top of that, the pricing is very affordable compared to other locations in the area, which makes it a great choice for families. Highly recommend!“

“Highly recommend. The facility is impressive, there is a consistently high turnout with a good mix of sizes and skill levels which seems to make it easier to pair them up with the right partners, and the coaches are incredible kids' coaches. My kids are new to grappling and love it.“

“My 6 y/o son takes Tae Kwon Do classes here and it's a wonderful program for young kids. Master Jeong is great with the kids and teaches them discipline but does a lot of fun things with them to keep them involved and engaged. I'd highly recommend this place for active kids who need an outlet for their pent up energy.“

“It’s a wonderful place to learn basic self-defense. The instructors are very welcoming and teach many skills you can use in your daily life. Our class was made up of many different ages, and everyone had a great time!“

“I enrolled my grandson into Core Martial Arts In Libertyville two years ago. The instructors have extreme patience with the little ones and watching the progress that this now 6.5 year old has made is commendable. He comes home with what may seem like little things, like being able to count to ten in Korean or showing us some of his "moves", but they are big things to be proud of in his little world. I can't recommend Justin and Therese enough.“