Martial Arts Schools near Takoma Park

“Being adopted from Russia as an infant, I decided to explore Russian history, and found Systema as a unique form of martial arts from the Slavic regions throughout history. Jim and my fellow students were incredible to learn with, the experience was fun, positive, and very close-knit. What I learned from Jim brought a whole new perspective on human movement, energy, and conditioning, he is an excellent instructor who excels at transferring the daunting and the complexity of Systema into an intuitive, easy to grasp simplicity. The fellow students I learned with were fun and great company, we helped each other out and challenged each other to do our best. Incredible experience, would love to return someday!“

“Jen and Jay have built something truly special at Capital MMA Takoma — a culture that existed long before I walked through the door and will continue long after I’m gone.

Nick, in particular, has had a tremendous impact on my growth, pushing me to sharpen my technique and raise my level every time I train.

What really stands out is the community. Every round is a tough round, in the best possible way — and we have fun doing it. There’s an incredible depth and diversity of talent here: judo, BJJ, MMA, Muay Thai, boxing, wrestling, self-defense — you name it. The coaches and training partners are constantly invested in making each other better, improving the space, dropping fun team rash guards, and creating an environment that people genuinely want to be part of.

If you’re looking for high-level training with a real sense of camaraderie and lasting culture, this is the place.“

“Our experience at this Tae Kwon Do studio has been outstanding. The program truly builds character, confidence, and discipline. I’ve noticed a meaningful positive change in my daughter—not just in the dojo, but at school and at home as well. All while the kids are having a blast.

I really appreciate the emphasis they place on school performance and home life as essential components of succeeding in the dojo—an approach that truly sets this program apart and reinforces values that extend far beyond martial arts.

The flexible scheduling has been incredibly helpful in allowing our daughter to maintain a consistent twice-weekly routine. I’m also impressed that there are multiple instructors in every class. The student-to-instructor ratio ensures that each child receives the attention and guidance they need to learn and grow.

Most importantly, Master Shim and his staff genuinely care. You can tell they enjoy the process of building these kids up. My daughter has loved the experience so much that I’ve decided to start the adult classes myself. We’re grateful to be part of this community and highly recommend this studio. You will not find a better Taekwondo studio in Montgomery County!“

“Lo recomiendo porque ayudado mucho a mi hija. le encanta estar compartiendo con los de mas niños y maestros!!!“

“My Kru recommended this gym and I’m so glad I went! Staff was super helpful and the coaches were clear and gave specific corrections. Highly recommend to anyone in town!“

“This is the best Taekwondo gym. All the instructor, especially Master Kim and Kelly, are nice and love the kids so much. My son really loves going the gum every time.“

“We love Kicks Karate Bethesda! The teachers are nothing short of fantastic (kind, caring, funny and flexible!), and they make every class educational and fun. Our son is part of the Tiny Tigers program, and Mr. David and Mr. Brian are absolute professionals when it comes to commanding the attention of preschoolers (which is no easy feat). We also appreciate that the administrative staff is responsive and offers great answers/solutions to any questions we have. The best review is that our son asks every day if we're going to karate...and that says it all!“

“I’ve had the pleasure of training with Sifu Michael, and I respect how seriously he takes his craft and how he shares his knowledge.

It is a serious environment with no goofing off, but it’s never to a point where one has to walk on eggshells.

It’s also a great community with enthusiastic people who all train for different reasons. I will say that it may be difficult to simultaneously train in another school, since the principles of wing chun are specific, although I’ve met people who’ve managed to make that work for themselves.

Highly recommended“

“Love this place. We are very happy to be the part of King Tiger Martial Arts School. My son is attending the School since 2023. All the Masters and instructors are very professional, passionate and friendly. Great place to learn discipline, confidence and self defense. Highly recommended for all ages.“

“Our kids are almost 4 and 6, and we have been going to Kicks since they were 3. They absolutely love it and have learned so much about self- control, both physically and in controlling their impulses. Mr. Josh is particularly amazing with the kids— he holds them to high standards while fostering an environment of joy and support, with endless energy and patience. He is remarkable. The whole place is extremely organized and well- run as well, and the owner herself is always easily accessible if you have any questions. Highly recommend!“

“Love Love this school. The Sensei are firm but patient. The schools are CLEAN and they have a strong focus developing the kids at every level! Highly recommend“

“Great taekwondo studio in Tenleytown. My 6 year old has received personalized training to come up to speed with the rest of the students. The staff is knowledgeable and helpful. There is a strong message taught about confidence, discipline and community.“

“Both of my kids train here, and we are incredibly impressed with the quality of instruction. The teachers are warm, attentive, and amazingly skilled at connecting with each child—remembering their names and adapting lessons to meet them where they are. The individualized attention really helps them grow and stay motivated.

The entire studio is run with exceptional organization. Classes flow smoothly, the structure is consistent, and everything operates like a well-oiled machine. It’s clear the staff is dedicated to creating a positive, disciplined, and supportive environment.

My children look forward to every class, and we’ve seen such meaningful progress. I highly recommend this school to any family looking for top-tier martial arts training!“

“Bethesda Martial Arts school is outstanding. The instructors are professional, encouraging, and great with students of all ages. The environment is positive and respectful, and the training is top-notch. Highly recommended!“

“We’ve been at this location for almost two years now and the experience has been great! Our son has enjoyed going, learning new skills and earning belts. The class schedule is easy to navigate especially for working parents. All the instructors are great.“

“Top tier organization…for all folks…no matter there level or ability. I would add a 6 and 7 star if I could. #estrelapreta“

“My son absolutely loves going to Karate here. Ms. Nadia, and Ms. Angie are wonderful! All of the other instructors are great as well! We love it here!“

“My Son has been a student here the last few years. I can see the progress he has made in behavior and social skills working with Master Paul and his team. ?? so glad I found this place. They really have a heart for the kids.“

“Great place for your kids!!! They are always on time and very kind, but they are also taught and disciplined. They will not tolerate BS, which is what I really like. My kid has been with them for two years, and he is progressing.“

“I'm attending the capoeira classes and it's amazing. Very welcoming environment and great for building community and learning other cultures.“

“This place have the most dedicated teachers. You can tell they love what they do. They teach while providing a fun and exciting experience. My son really enjoys it and we tried so many different sports before. So glad we found TK.“

“Trained by master Brown has always left a love for shaolin wushu in my heart. Teachers were great and patient with you.“

“Amazing Krav community with unlimited daily trainings and workshops, all instructors are great, for both beginners and experienced students. Love it so much!!!“

“I can’t say enough good things about my time training at Yamasaki Academy. From the moment I started, the environment was welcoming, respectful, and truly focused on growth.

My husband and I first visited the academy back in November, driving about an hour from our home just to check it out. I was honestly a bit hesitant at first because of the distance, but Max had already had such positive experiences interacting with Professor Fernando and his son while working tournaments that he convinced me it would be worth the drive.

After that first class, I was the one pushing him to reach out so we could sign up. It didn’t take long for me to see how special the academy is. We were more than happy to drive 41 miles each way just to train there once a week, and that alone says everything.

The level of instruction, professionalism, and attention to students is something you don’t find everywhere. Professor and the team genuinely care about their students, and it shows in the culture they’ve built.

I’m incredibly grateful for the time I spent training here and everything I learned in the short time. This is THE place to train in the DMV area. Having at least five black belts (often more) on the mats with you, along with highly skilled and competitive brown and purple belts, creates an unmatched training environment.

Professor Fernando, who is a coral belt, is not someone who simply watches from the sidelines. He is actively engaged, teaching and coaching during the class - even rolling with students. That level of involvement is rare and speaks volumes about his dedication.

Although I’ll be moving farther away and won’t be able to continue training here, I would absolutely recommend Yamasaki Academy to anyone looking for high-level instruction in a supportive and respectful community.“

“JKA Virginia is an excellent dojo teaching traditional Shotokan karate. Sensei Hanjani's classes are energetic and thoughtful; with varied exercises that are grounded in the fundamental principles of traditional Shotokan.“

“I had such a positive experience at More Than Human LLC. The environment was welcoming, professional, and empowering from start to finish. Anthony is an excellent trainer knowledgeable, respectful, and genuinely attentive to everyone in the room.

What really stood out was how intentional he was about making women feel safe and supported, including myself. He created a space where everyone felt comfortable, confident, and encouraged to learn without pressure or intimidation. I left feeling stronger, more informed, and really glad I started to train here. Highly recommend!“

“This instructor is cool, funny, Knowledgeable, and experienced. He is a very nice dude and I would recommend going to Dragon Law TKD“