Martial Arts Schools in Durham

“Great place. The only place in the area with daytime classes during those 9 to 5 hours. As far as I can tell it's the most active place where you can just walk in and get some work in based on having too much energy which is often what prompts me to want to roll. Was great when I was nearby and the teaching is top notch.“

“I had a private EDC session with Stewart E. a few weeks back. It’s the class I wish I had invested in long ago because I received such detailed/personalized advice and technique. This one-on-one session made a world of difference to me, giving me better insight on how I can personally improve when carrying and shooting a pistol.Stewart didn’t undermine, criticize or patronize — something that tends to happen when you have an impatient or unskilled teacher. I think Stewart’s calmness, insight and ability to clearly explain speaks volumes regarding his natural skills as a teacher.This man is awesome!This is now my second class with TSD. I hope to attend more.“

“I cannot speak highly enough about this place. The positives are endless.I have a 6 yo girl and an 8 yo boy in the program. The programs run from quite young and I’ve seen folks across several generations.In this context, this is one of the greatest gateways into the SoDu (south Durham) community that I have found since moving here in 2017 from ATL. If you know about sodu, then let me just say this is on the money sodu representation. If you don’t know about sodu, this is an incredibly inclusive and positive environment.Regarding the instruction: it may feel chaotic on first interaction, but don’t let that fool you. It is a well oiled machine.Regarding staff: 100% A+. True dedication to the art, and clear compassion for the students.Regarding value: while I respect that the price to enter is absolutely a hurdle, I genuinely feel the value is incredible. Our kids attend 2x week and it is perfect.Regarding impact for the kids: I’ll be honest, I didn’t really know what Tae Kwon Do was. I was totally ignorant and generally just thought of karate kid (I am a child of the 80s ?). I now know and have seen the light. Simply put, “this is the way.” More adequately, this is one of the greatest enrichment activities I’ve run across for the kids. And let me just say, I have a lot of experience (soccer, swimming, music, etc.).For details: the first class is free. I recommend going with a friend. It is a bit of a shock the fist time because the energy and movement is high, but I can confidently say it is not chaos.You should try this place out.“

“After 26 years of training in the Washington suburbs, this aging martial artist moved to Durham. I found my new martial arts family at Shaw's Karate. Mr. Yuri Powell bought the business from Master Shaw a few years ago. He's an outstanding instructor. Skilled in the martial arts. And runs a family-oriented business where moms, dads, sons, and daughters train together. I'm especially impressed with the way he enforces focus, concentration, respect, and discipline while still keeping things fun for the kids.Mr. Shaw still teaches a few nights a week, and it's clear where Mr. Powell got his approach to teaching. Same deal. Discipline enforced - with a nice big smile.I've been associated with some outstanding instructors over my quarter century plus of training - and was really pleased to find a dojo in Durham that meets and exceeds my expectations. Couldn't recommend it more highly.“

“I’ve been attending for several months now and Sifu Mike and Dr. Barber are great. They are so welcoming and are great teachers. This is a great environment and you learn so much!“