This Aikido studio, opened in 2004 to honor the death of a treasured sensei, holds classes for both children and adults. This facility is also a club offering membership for open-mat times and sparring. It prides itself on maintaining an atmosphere of mutual respect for all students regardless of their background.
This mixed martial arts Mecca offers a wide range of fighting styles, from American Boxing to Pilipino Kali Escrima. Open since 1996, basic self defense classes and physical fitness gambits are on offer as well. Men and women, professional and amateur alike train here, but the atmosphere is definitely serious; this is not an aerobics studio.
Fancy some karate lessons from a ninth degree black belt? Villari's Self Defense is an international chain of schools that teaches Shaolin Kempo Karate, a style developed by Villari himself. Its Somerville studio overlooks Union Square. Group and private lessons are available, but be sure to call ahead before dropping by as the front doors are unlocked only during scheduled lessons.
Working with Davis Square Martial Arts, House of Samurai focuses on teaching Shoto-Kan, one of the most common forms of karate used for competition and exercise. Classes are designed for both beginners and advanced practitioners to allow both kinds of students to grow. Emphasis is placed on proper forms and practical applications, as well as the philosophy of karate.
This martial arts studio ("dojo") is tucked on a quiet stretch of Allen Street off of Somerville Avenue -- between Merriam and Prospect streets -- near Union Square. It's affiliated with 5 other dojos in New England and the Midwest. Shobu Aikido of Boston was founded by William Gleason (Gleason Sensei, to students) who is a celebrated author on the topic of non-violent martial arts and studied in Japan from 1970 to 1980. All levels are welcomed, and the curious are encouraged to take off their shoes and observe.
This all-ages martial arts school offers classes for everyone from beginners to experts in karate, kung fu and tai chi. Main instructor Mark J. Carletti, Ph.D., has over a decade of training under his black belt, including with Grand Master Pan, Qing Fu, former Instructor of the Chinese National Team.
Workshops for both children and adults are presented in a respectful environment. Meanwhile, classes are designed to fit into busy schedules, with both afternoon and evening sessions available.
This two-floor facility offers classes teaching self-defense in Karate, Brazilian Ju-Jitsu, Muay-Thai, and other styles. It also features Mixed Martial Arts classes taking place in a 30-foot MMA cage.
Founded in 1985, Tree of Life offers classes in Tai Chi Chuan, qigong, and Chinese healing. All instructors have been trained in the traditional methods to offer clear instruction to students, and often work with local colleges on alternative medicine studies. A variety of classes are available at all levels, including one-day workshops, groups and private instruction.
"Stay true to yourself," is the mantra of Red Tiger Academy of Martial Arts owner Alberto Ortiz, a one-time national champion. Specializing in Sho To Kan, a traditional form of Japanese karate, each of the academy's five instructors are black belts and JKA certified. The vast, colorful studio provides everything students need to learn, such as uniforms, headgear and footgear, as well as weight lifting equipment, nun chucks and heavy bags. Participating in individual and group competitions, the academy holds age-based classes with an emphasis on sparring. Teaching as many girls as it does boys, new students are always welcome.
