Building Confidence, Teaching Respect

Learning self-defense is the tip of the iceberg for kids when it comes to the benefits of martial arts such as karate and tae kwon do. In a martial arts class, children build their self-confidence, learn respect and courtesy, and improve their concentration as well as increase their strength, flexibility and endurance. They also have a ton of fun! Ridgewood and the surrounding area has lots of dojos to choose from. All of these listed below offer classes for children ages 4 and up:

Ridgewood Shukokai Karate (201-447-2272) –  Founded in 1996 by Shihan Ken and Renshi Pat, Ridgewood Shukokai has such a positive energy and great instructors. My son loved taking classes at this popular spot. Ridgewood Shukokai offers a one month $100 trial, which includes unlimited training and a uniform. It is located at 30 Cottage Place in Ridgewood, just behind Starbucks.

Kim’s Martial Arts (201-670-4080) – Under the direction of Grand Master Kim, this studio teaches traditional tae kwon do and hap ki do. Call to set up an appointment and tour. Kim’s Martial Arts is at 45 Godwin Avenue in Midland Park, next to Wendy’s.

USA Martial Arts College (201-447-9595) – All tae kwon do classes are taught under the direction of  Grandmaster Cha in the traditional martial arts style. USA Martial Arts College is located at 31 South Broad Street in Ridgewood.

Bill Stevens Karate (201-327-7702 in Allendale; 201-891-0067 in Franklin Lakes) – Founded by Master Stevens, this karate studio offers a tour and free private lesson to get your child started. In Allendale, it is located at 37 West Allendale Avenue and at 799 Franklin Avenue in Franklin Lakes.