Business Details
29 Years
experience
Taekwondo Classes for All Ages in Housatonic, MA
Founded in 1997, Martial Arts Institute of the Berkshires (MAIB) has been dedicated to fostering growth in body, mind, and spirit through Taekwondo instruction. Under the leadership of Grandmaster Thomas R. Brown, an 8th Dan certified by Kukkiwon, we offer programs that emphasize self-discipline, respect, and holistic well-being. Our family-based classes encourage intergenerational learning, while our community outreach initiatives reflect our commitment to local engagement. With a curriculum integrating traditional and modern martial arts techniques, including self-defense and meditation, we cater to students of all ages and skill levels.Our instructors, many of whom hold advanced black belt ranks, bring decades of combined experience to create a safe, inclusive environment. We prioritize individualized attention through discovery sessions and private lessons, ensuring each student's unique goals are met. Our philosophy centers on personal growth over competition, aligning with Taekwondo tenets like perseverance and self-control. Located in Housatonic, MA, we serve both in-person and online communities, adapting to evolving needs while maintaining rigorous training standards.
Services
Taekwondo Classes
Private Lessons
Online Training
Senior-Fitness
Family Programs
Belt Testing
Self-Defense
Meditation
Conditioning
Workshops
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- 25+ years of Taekwondo instruction experience
- Family-based classes for intergenerational learning
- Community-focused outreach programs
- Holistic approach combining physical and mental development
- Instructors with 4th-8th Dan black belt certifications
Associations and certifications
- Kukkiwon
- World Taekwondo
What people say
Family-friendly environment
Dedicated instructors
Positive impact on students
Flexible class options
Community involvement
Services
Taekwondo Classes
Our Taekwondo classes combine traditional Korean techniques with modern teaching methods for students of all ages. Focusing on kicking, punching, and forms (Poomse), we develop physical strength, flexibility, and self-defense skills. Classes incorporate meditation and character-building principles aligned with Taekwondo tenets.
Private Lessons
Customized instruction tailored to individual goals with certified instructors. Available for all skill levels, these sessions provide focused attention on technique refinement, belt preparation, or personalized fitness objectives in a flexible scheduling format.
Online Training
Live-streamed Taekwondo instruction accessible from home. Following the same curriculum as in-person classes, our online platform maintains technical precision through real-time feedback while offering schedule flexibility for remote learners.
Senior-Fitness
Specialized program designed for adults 60+ to improve balance, strength, and cardiovascular health. Low-impact exercises adapted from martial arts principles help maintain mobility while fostering confidence in a supportive group environment.
Self-Defense
Practical training in real-world defense techniques integrated throughout our curriculum. Students learn situational awareness, de-escalation strategies, and physical countermeasures while developing mental preparedness and confidence in personal safety.
People
Thomas R. Brown
Grandmaster
8th Dan Kukkiwon-certified Grandmaster with 25+ years of Taekwondo experience. Former student of Grandmaster Byung Min Kim, he established MAIB in 1997 to promote martial arts' holistic benefits through community-focused instruction.
Rebecca Childs
Master Instructor
16-year MAIB veteran with 4th Dan certification. Manages technical operations and event coordination while teaching classes that emphasize self-confidence development through martial arts training.
Kathleen M. Favaloro
Master Instructor
5th Dan black belt since 2000. Physical therapist and self-defense specialist who develops senior-focused programs, combining rehabilitation expertise with practical martial arts applications for safety and wellness.
Christopher Vought
Master Instructor
20-year MAIB member achieving 5th Dan in 2022. Former U.S. Coast Guard member known for patient instruction style and co-developing senior self-defense resources with technical precision.
Christophe Pichard
Instructor
3rd Dan black belt from France with business management background. Contributes to in-person instruction while balancing administrative responsibilities at Berkshire Montessori School.
Questions
What age can children start Taekwondo classes?
We accept students as young as 4 years old after a discovery session assessing focus and readiness for structured instruction.
Do you offer trial classes for new students?
Yes, single class passes allow prospective students to experience our program before committing to longer-term enrollment.
Are online classes available?
Live-streamed sessions available on Thursdays and Fridays, following the same curriculum as our in-person Housatonic location classes.
What equipment is required?
MAIB standard uniform is mandatory for all programs. T-shirts and additional gear are optional purchases available through our school.
How are instructors qualified?
Our teaching staff holds 4th-8th Dan black belt certifications from recognized organizations, with decades of combined martial arts experience.
Do you participate in community events?
Yes, we actively engage in local initiatives like the Great Barrington Bike and Fly, offering demonstrations and charity fundraisers.
