Business Details
Taekwondo Classes for All Ages in Lombard, IL
Chief Master Nakane's ATA Black Belt Academy has dedicated itself to empowering students through traditional Taekwondo instruction. Our mission centers on cultivating confident, respectful, and disciplined leaders by building strong character and nurturing individual potential. With a curriculum refined over decades, we offer structured programs for children aged 4-12 and teens/adults aged 13+, focusing on life skills like perseverance, self-control, and leadership. Our certified instructors, including Chief Master Douglas Nakane (8th Degree Black Belt) and Laura Kapala (5th Degree Black Belt), guide students through progressive training that emphasizes non-violent conflict resolution and practical self-defense.We maintain a supportive environment where families report measurable improvements in physical fitness, mental acuity, and socialization skills. The academy's legacy of excellence combines rigorous technical training with character development, creating a community that extends beyond the dojo into everyday life. Through tournaments, leadership programs, and family classes, we foster lasting relationships that reinforce our core values of integrity and mutual respect.
Services
Taekwondo Classes
Self-Defense Training
Leadership Programs
Family Martial Arts
Tournament Preparation
Highlights and features
- Our instructors include 8th and 5th Degree Black Belts with decades of combined experience
- Curriculum combines physical fitness with character development and practical self-defense
- Proven success in improving discipline and confidence for children with ADHD
- Family-friendly environment with multi-generational participation opportunities
- Certified instructors maintain ATA's 50+ years of curriculum expertise
What people say
Gained confidence
Supportive environment
Improved discipline
Family-friendly atmosphere
Excellent instructors
Services
ATA Tigers
The ATA Tigers program (ages 4-7) develops foundational character qualities through engaging Taekwondo training. Children improve motor skills, attention span, and discipline while learning respect and self-control. This curriculum combines physical activity with character development, creating a fun environment where young students build confidence through achievement.
Martial Arts Kids (MAK)
MAK (ages 8-12) focuses on life skills development through structured Taekwondo instruction. Students build discipline, respect, and self-esteem while improving physical fitness and goal-setting abilities. The program emphasizes non-violent conflict resolution and socialization in a supportive environment that encourages personal growth and leadership development.
Teens and Adults Martial Arts
Designed for ages 13+, this program combines high-intensity fitness with practical self-defense training. Participants develop physical conditioning, mental focus, and situational awareness while learning real-world self-defense techniques. The curriculum supports personal growth through progressive belt rankings and leadership opportunities in a community-oriented setting.
Self-Defense Classes
Our self-defense program teaches practical techniques for real-world situations. Beginners learn threat recognition, de-escalation strategies, and physical defense methods in a supportive environment. The curriculum builds confidence through scenario-based training while emphasizing situational awareness and personal safety principles for individuals and families.
Leadership Programs
Leadership programs integrate Taekwondo training with character-building activities. Students develop integrity, responsibility, and mentoring skills through structured challenges and community involvement. These programs create pathways for advanced students to become instructors themselves, reinforcing leadership principles through teaching and peer support in a positive, goal-oriented environment.
People
Douglas Nakane
Chief Master
8th Degree Black Belt with over 50 years of martial arts experience. Developed the academy's curriculum emphasizing character development alongside technical proficiency. Certified instructor guiding students through all belt ranks.
Laura Kapala
Instructor
5th Degree Black Belt specializing in youth development programs. Certified instructor with expertise in adapting Taekwondo techniques for different age groups. Focuses on building confidence and socialization skills through martial arts training.
Tony Bruno
Instructor
4th Degree Black Belt with specialization in self-defense techniques. Certified instructor emphasizing practical applications and situational awareness. Helps students develop physical conditioning and mental focus through structured martial arts training.
Questions
What age groups do you accept?
We offer programs for children aged 4-7 (ATA Tigers), 8-12 (MAK), and teens/adults aged 13+ with specialized curricula for each group.
What makes your academy unique?
Our certified instructors combine 50+ years of curriculum expertise with character development focus, creating a supportive environment that builds life skills alongside martial arts proficiency.
Do you offer trial classes?
Yes, we provide a web special for new students: $49 for 4 weeks of introductory classes to experience our programs risk-free.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear comfortable athletic clothing. We provide loaner uniforms for initial classes and will guide you on proper uniform requirements during enrollment.
How do you handle different skill levels?
Our belt ranking system allows individual progression at each student's pace, with instructors providing personalized guidance through each skill level.
Are family discounts available?
We offer family participation opportunities and multi-child pricing options. Contact us directly to discuss your specific situation and needs.
