Business Details
Your Premier Martial Arts Destination in Charlotte, NC
At Leadership Martial Arts, we are dedicated to empowering individuals through comprehensive martial arts training. With over 30 years of combined experience, our instructors specialize in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Karate, Kickboxing, and Judo, offering programs tailored for ages 4 and up. Our 5,500-square-foot facility features state-of-the-art training mats, a pro shop, and a welcoming environment designed to foster confidence, discipline, and leadership. We provide youth and adult classes, summer camps, and after-school programs that emphasize character development, self-defense, and physical fitness.Our head instructor, Professor Derek 'TC' Richardson, holds multiple black belts and has trained globally with top martial artists. We prioritize personalized instruction, ensuring each student progresses at their own pace while mastering techniques and building resilience. Our community-focused approach creates a supportive atmosphere where families thrive and individuals grow. Whether you're seeking competition training, fitness, or life skills, we deliver expert guidance and a transformative experience. Join us to discover your potential through martial arts excellence.
Services
JiuJitsu
Kickboxing
Karate
Summer Camps
After-school Programs
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of combined martial arts expertise from certified instructors.
- Our 5,500-square-foot facility features top-quality training mats and modern amenities.
- We specialize in age-specific programs that build leadership and self-defense skills.
- Our curriculum integrates multiple disciplines including JiuJitsu, Karate, and Kickboxing.
- We provide free trial classes to experience our community-focused approach.
Services
JiuJitsu
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes for ages 8+ focus on ground fighting and submission grappling. Our curriculum develops technical proficiency, strategic thinking, and physical conditioning. Students progress through belt ranks while learning self-defense and competitive techniques in a supportive environment.
Kickboxing
Mixed martial arts classes combine Kickboxing, Boxing, and Krav Maga for ages 8+. Training includes striking techniques, footwork, and practical self-defense applications. Our program builds cardiovascular endurance, coordination, and confidence through dynamic partner drills and conditioning exercises.
Karate
Karate classes emphasize striking techniques, forms (kata), and character development. Students learn discipline, focus, and respect through structured lessons that improve flexibility, strength, and self-defense capabilities in a traditional martial arts framework.
Summer Camps
Kids martial arts summer camps provide fun, physical activity, and character education. Daily sessions include martial arts training, games, and leadership exercises that build confidence, teamwork, and discipline in a safe, engaging environment.
After-school Programs
Afterschool martial arts programs combine fitness, self-defense, and life skills training. Our structured curriculum helps children develop focus, responsibility, and leadership while providing a safe, active alternative to sedentary after-school activities.
People
Professor Derek TC Richardson
Head Instructor
With 30+ years of martial arts experience, Professor Richardson holds multiple black belts including 6th Degree in Martial Arts, 3rd Degree BJJ (Renzo Gracie), and 2nd Degree Judo. He has trained globally with top MMA, Kickboxing, and BJJ experts.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Karate, Kickboxing, Judo, and Krav Maga for ages 4+ with specialized programs for youth and adults.
Do you have beginner classes?
Yes, all our programs welcome beginners with structured curricula that accommodate all skill levels from first-time students to advanced practitioners.
What age groups do you accept?
We teach ages 4 and up, with specific programs for Little Ninjas (4-7), youth, and adults through separate, age-appropriate classes.
Is there a free trial class available?
Yes, we offer a free introductory class so you can experience our facility, instructors, and training approach before committing.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear comfortable athletic clothing. We provide loaner uniforms for trial classes and will guide you on proper attire for regular sessions.
Do you offer summer camp programs?
Our martial arts summer camps combine physical training, character development, and fun activities for children aged 4-12 during school breaks.
