Business Details
30 Years
experience
Premier Martial Arts Classes in St. Louis for All Ages
World Martial Arts Academy has been dedicated to transforming lives through martial arts, education, and coaching since 1996. Our mission is to provide a safe, welcoming environment where individuals of all ages, genders, and experience levels can achieve personal growth and develop essential life skills. Our programs emphasize practical self-defense techniques while fostering discipline, respect, and confidence.With a team of certified instructors, we create a supportive community where students build character, improve physical fitness, and gain the tools to succeed in all aspects of life. Our St. Louis facility offers tailored programs for preschoolers, children, teens, and families, ensuring each member receives personalized attention and guidance.
Services
Preschool Martial Arts
Kids Martial Arts
Teen Martial Arts
Family Martial Arts
Summer Program
Day Camps
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- We offer age-specific programs developed by certified martial arts experts with decades of combined experience.
- Our instructors prioritize character development alongside physical training, emphasizing respect and discipline.
- We provide a family-friendly environment where students of all skill levels receive personalized attention.
- Our practical self-defense curriculum prepares students for real-world scenarios with proven techniques.
- We guarantee a supportive community that fosters confidence and lifelong personal growth.
What people say
Best instructor
Great for kids
Improved confidence
Family-friendly
Effective training
Services
Preschool Martial Arts
Our Preschool Martial Arts program for ages 4-6 builds gross motor skills while introducing foundational discipline and respect. Through engaging activities, children develop focus and social skills that prepare them for academic and life success. The curriculum combines physical development with character-building principles in a fun, supportive environment.
Kids Martial Arts
Designed for ages 7-12, this program teaches self-defense while cultivating essential life skills like focus and perseverance. Students improve academic performance through enhanced discipline and goal-setting abilities. Our structured classes create a positive environment for physical fitness and character development through martial arts training.
Teen Martial Arts
This teen-focused program combines physical fitness with confidence-building through practical self-defense techniques. Participants develop leadership skills while engaging in a tech-free activity that promotes healthy social connections. The curriculum addresses modern challenges while maintaining traditional martial arts values for ages 13-17.
Family Martial Arts
Our Family Martial Arts classes create shared fitness experiences for all ages, combining self-defense instruction with team-building activities. Participants develop physical coordination while strengthening family bonds through collaborative learning. The program adapts techniques to accommodate varying skill levels within the same class.
Summer Program
The Summer Program offers structured martial arts training with character development activities for children. Combining physical exercise with social skill-building, this seasonal offering creates a supportive environment for continued growth during school breaks. Participants experience accelerated progress through intensive training sessions.
People
Grandmaster Young Chul Rho
Founder & 9th Degree Black Belt
Internationally certified martial arts expert with over 40 years of experience. Recognized Class A referee and instructor who established World Martial Arts Academy in St. Louis.
Master EJ Fitch
Chief Instructor
5th Degree Black Belt with specialized expertise in program development. Leads daily operations and instructional training while maintaining direct student engagement in St. Louis classes.
Master Marla Martin
Master Instructor
4th Degree Black Belt with extensive experience in student development and customer service. Provides expert martial arts instruction while ensuring personalized support for all participants.
Jay Duncan
Master Instructor
4th Degree Black Belt specializing in advanced martial arts techniques. Contributes to curriculum development and delivers high-quality instruction across multiple program levels in St. Louis.
Liz Betty
Master Instructor
4th Degree Black Belt with a focus on student progression and skill development. Provides expert guidance in martial arts training while maintaining a supportive learning environment.
Questions
Will martial arts make my child aggressive?
No, our program teaches conflict resolution and humility. Students learn self-defense while developing respect and kindness toward others.
Can parents observe classes?
Yes, we encourage parental observation. Many parents also join adult classes to train alongside their children and strengthen family bonds.
Do I need prior fitness experience?
No prior experience is required. Our instructors adapt training to individual fitness levels, helping students gradually build strength and coordination.
How long does it take to earn a black belt?
Black belt progression varies by individual commitment. Our instructors provide personalized guidance through each belt level at the student's own pace.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear comfortable athletic clothing and bring a water bottle. Avoid restrictive clothing that limits movement during martial arts training.
Is martial arts suitable for non-athletic children?
Yes, our program helps develop coordination and motor skills. Many students who struggle with traditional sports thrive in our structured martial arts environment.