Business Details
42 Years
experience
Traditional Martial Arts Training in Willoughby, OH
Founded in 1984 by Grand Master Richard J. Lewis, Kang Do Won has been a cornerstone of traditional martial arts instruction in Willoughby, Ohio. Our mission centers on fostering positive personal growth, healthy character development, and effective self-defense skills for individuals of all ages. With decades of combined experience, our instructors emphasize core values such as discipline, respect, and inner strength, creating a structured yet supportive environment for students to thrive.We pride ourselves on a legacy of excellence, having trained thousands in the art of Kang Do, which translates to 'inner strength way.' Our programs are designed to build confidence, leadership, and resilience, empowering students to apply these principles in all aspects of life. Through rigorous training and a focus on behavioral modification, we help individuals achieve holistic growth, ensuring that our community benefits from both physical and mental development.
Services
Martial Arts Classes
Self-Defense Training
Belt Ranking Program
Competitive Tournaments
Demonstration Team
Details
- Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
- We offer over 40 years of expertise in traditional martial arts instruction since 1984.
- Our curriculum emphasizes character development alongside physical training.
- We provide family-oriented programs for all skill levels and ages.
- Our instructors hold advanced black belt rankings and specialized certifications.
- We host annual American Warrior tournaments for competitive growth.
What people say
Life-changing experience
Builds confidence
Family-friendly environment
Experienced instructors
Character development focus
Services
Martial Arts Classes
Our martial arts classes teach traditional techniques while emphasizing character development. Students learn discipline, respect, and perseverance through structured curricula tailored to all ages and skill levels. The program builds physical fitness and mental focus, creating a foundation for lifelong personal growth.
Self-Defense Training
Self-defense programs focus on practical techniques for real-world scenarios. Training includes situational awareness, threat identification, and defensive maneuvers applicable to both adults and children. Emphasis is placed on confidence-building and de-escalation strategies alongside physical techniques.
Belt Ranking Program
Our belt system provides measurable progress markers through skill demonstrations and written exams. Students advance through colored belt ranks before achieving black belt status, with requirements emphasizing technical proficiency, character development, and knowledge of martial arts philosophy.
Competitive Tournaments
Annual American Warrior tournaments feature divisions for sparring, forms, and power striking. Competitions allow students to test skills in a supportive environment while building confidence and sportsmanship. Events cater to all age groups and experience levels.
Demonstration Team
The Kang Do Warriors team showcases martial arts skills through public demonstrations. Members develop advanced techniques, synchronized movements, and performance skills while representing the institute at community events and special functions.
People
Richard J. Lewis
Founder/Grand Master
8th Dan Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do with over 50 years martial arts experience. Created Kang Do martial art system in 1984. Inducted into multiple martial arts halls of fame. Retired in 2015 after decades of teaching.
Gary M. Hotchkiss
Senior Master Teacher
7th Dan Black Belt with 30+ years teaching experience. Took over institute leadership in 2015. Organizes American Warrior tournaments. Specializes in competition training and advanced techniques.
Judeth M. Lewis
Senior Master Teacher
7th Dan Black Belt with nursing background. Manages competition teams and self-defense seminars. Recognized for teaching excellence since 1989. Combines medical knowledge with martial arts instruction.
Elizabeth M. Maurer
Master Teacher
6th Dan Black Belt with accounting background. Coaches competition teams and assists with financial operations. Teaches character development through martial arts principles.
Rosemarie Teresi
Junior Master Teacher
5th Dan Black Belt with cosmetology expertise. Teaches acrylic nail techniques alongside martial arts. Holds state nail competition titles. Focuses on youth development programs.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We teach Kang Do, a traditional martial art combining elements of Tae Kwon Do, Sun Do, and Bong-Sool with emphasis on character development.
Do you offer trial classes?
Yes, we provide a 1-month trial program including uniform for $25 to experience our training environment.
What age groups do you accept?
We offer programs for children as young as 3 through adults of all ages in family-friendly classes.
Are there competitive opportunities?
We host the American Warrior tournament series with divisions for sparring, forms, and power striking competitions.
What are your class schedules?
Classes run Monday-Friday 4-8 PM, Saturday 11 AM-3 PM. Special sessions available for advanced students.
Do you offer self-defense training?
Yes, we include practical self-defense techniques and situational awareness training in all our programs.
