Business Details
7 Years
experience
Your Trusted Taekwondo School in Springfield
Unified Martial Arts was founded in 2019 by Angelo and Misty Vasquez, lifelong martial artists with over 30 years of combined teaching experience. Our mission began when we recognized a critical gap in extracurricular opportunities for children with special needs, inspired by our own parenting journey. We created an inclusive environment where neurotypical and non-neurotypical students train together, fostering mutual understanding and life skills through Taekwondo. Our integrated approach has grown to serve over 40% special needs students, emphasizing character development through our 5 Point Code of Conduct and 5 Tenets of Taekwondo.We specialize in structured classes for ages 3+, combining discipline with compassion, and offer specialized programs like Lil Heroes for young children. Our team includes certified instructors who prioritize safety, personal growth, and community building. We measure success through student achievements, both big and small, and maintain a supportive atmosphere where every individual is accepted. With flexible scheduling and trial options, we strive to make martial arts accessible to all abilities while maintaining rigorous teaching standards.
Services
Taekwondo Classes
Lil Heroes Program
Private Lessons
Special Needs Integration
Yoga Workshops
Details
- Year established: 2019
Highlights and features
- Specialized inclusive programs for special needs students
- Instructors with 30+ combined years of martial arts experience
- Integrated neurotypical/non-neurotypical class structure
- Proven character development through 5 Point Code of Conduct
- Structured trial classes with no commitment required
What people say
Inclusive environment
Patient instructors
Confidence building
Special needs support
Structured programs
Services
Taekwondo Classes
Structured Taekwondo instruction for all ages and abilities. Focuses on traditional techniques, character development, and physical fitness. Classes incorporate our 5 Tenets of Taekwondo while fostering mutual respect between neurotypical and special needs students through integrated learning.
Lil Heroes Program
Specialized Taekwondo classes for ages 3-6. Develops motor skills, focus, and confidence through age-appropriate techniques. Includes structured routines that accommodate different learning needs while introducing foundational martial arts principles in a supportive environment.
Private Lessons
Personalized martial arts instruction for current students. Tailored sessions focus on individual skill development, advanced techniques, and specific goals. Available in 30-minute increments with experienced instructors who adapt to each student's learning pace and requirements.
Special Needs Integration
Integrated training environment for neurotypical and non-neurotypical students. Designed to build social skills, physical coordination, and self-confidence through shared martial arts practice. Over 40% of students participate in this program, which emphasizes mutual understanding and community support.
Yoga Workshops
Alignment-focused yoga instruction for beginners and athletes. Teaches proper posture mechanics using props and progressive techniques. Led by a certified instructor who emphasizes functional movement, body awareness, and confidence-building through structured practice sessions.
People
Angelo Vasquez
Owner Instructor
Certified martial arts instructor with 15+ years of teaching experience. Specializes in intermediate-advanced self-defense techniques and curriculum development. Brings personal experience parenting special needs children to create inclusive training environments.
Misty Vasquez
Owner Instructor
Experienced martial arts instructor focused on youth development. Specializes in teaching Lil Heroes (ages 3-6) and beginner classes. Combines technical expertise with adaptive teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning needs in a supportive setting.
Marie Sample
Office Manager Associate Instructor
Supports Lil Heroes classes while managing administrative operations. Brings patience and creativity to working with young children, helping them develop foundational martial arts skills and classroom etiquette in a structured environment.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialize in traditional Taekwondo, focusing on the 5 Tenets of Taekwondo and our 5 Point Code of Conduct. Our curriculum emphasizes both technical skills and character development.
Do you offer programs for special needs children?
Yes, we have an integrated program where neurotypical and non-neurotypical students train together. Over 40% of our students have special needs, and our instructors are experienced in adapting techniques for different abilities.
What class options are available for beginners?
We offer Lil Heroes classes for ages 3-6 on Fridays, and beginner classes for ages 7+ and adults Monday-Thursday. New students can try 3 free trial classes to experience our teaching approach.
Are private lessons available?
Yes, we offer 30-minute private lessons for current students focusing on personalized skill development. Lessons must be scheduled with our instructors during available time slots.
What should I wear for my first class?
For trial classes, wear comfortable workout clothes. Uniforms are required for continuing students, which can be purchased through our school after deciding to continue training.
