Business Details
50 Years
experience
Your Premier Taekwondo Academy in Aiken, SC
Founded in 1976, Martial Arts Academy has dedicated over four decades to empowering individuals through the disciplined practice of Taekwondo. Our mission centers on fostering community development by providing accessible martial arts education that emphasizes character building, physical fitness, and mental resilience. With a legacy of coaching over 50 students annually for U.S. National Team trials since 1988, we combine technical expertise with values-based instruction. Our professionally trained instructors, averaging a decade of experience, deliver a curriculum tailored for all ages, from preschoolers to adults.Recognized for our commitment to at-risk youth outreach and leadership development, we maintain a structured environment where courtesy, integrity, and perseverance guide every student's journey. As a non-profit organization, we prioritize affordability while maintaining high standards in both competitive training and life skills education.
Services
Taekwondo Classes
Self-Defense Training
Cardio Kickboxing
Sparring Instruction
Black Belt Program
After School Program
Summer Camps
Forms Practice
Competitive Coaching
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- 50 years of Taekwondo instruction experience since 1976
- Instructors certified by World Taekwondo Federation
- Community-focused programs for at-risk youth since 1983
- Olympic-level competitive training with 1,000+ tournaments
- Affordable rates for family-friendly martial arts education
Associations and certifications
- World Taekwondo Federation
Services
Taekwondo Classes
Structured Taekwondo instruction for all ages develops physical endurance, flexibility, and self-defense skills. Our curriculum emphasizes powerful leg techniques and mental discipline through Olympic sport methodology. Students benefit from a balanced approach combining technical precision with character development.
Self-Defense Training
Practical self-defense programs teach effective techniques for real-world scenarios. Participants learn blocking maneuvers, evasive strategies, and confidence-building practices under professional supervision. Training focuses on situational awareness and practical application of Taekwondo principles.
Competitive Coaching
Olympic-style competitive coaching prepares athletes for national and international tournaments. With safety gear and regulated sparring sessions, students develop tournament strategies and sportsmanship. Our academy has produced 300+ Junior Olympians and 15 international champions.
After School Program
Supervised after-school care combines Taekwondo instruction with academic support for children ages 4+. Services include homework assistance, structured martial arts lessons, and character-building activities. The program emphasizes discipline, respect, and social responsibility in a safe environment.
Summer Camps
Seasonal martial arts camps provide intensive training combined with recreational activities. Participants engage in daily Taekwondo sessions, physical conditioning, and team-building exercises. The camps focus on developing focus, perseverance, and social skills through structured martial arts education.
People
Grand Master Andrew Blocker
Founder
8th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo with 50 years of experience. Recognized for coaching 300+ Junior Olympians and developing community leadership programs. Holds multiple black belts in various martial arts disciplines and has trained international champions since 1988.
Master Yolanda Bennett
Head Instructor
5th Degree Black Belt with 1,000+ tournament experiences. Specializes in youth mentorship and competitive training. Former student turned instructor, combining business expertise with martial arts instruction to develop champions since 1996.
Questions
What martial arts programs do you offer?
We provide Taekwondo instruction for all ages, including children's classes, adult programs, self-defense training, competitive coaching, and specialized summer camps.
Are your instructors certified professionals?
All instructors hold World Taekwondo Federation certifications with average 10+ years experience. Grand Master Blocker (8th Dan) and Master Bennett (5th Dan) lead our teaching staff.
Do you offer trial classes for beginners?
Yes, we provide one-week trial programs for both children and adults. Contact us to schedule a free introductory class at your convenience.
What community programs do you support?
As a non-profit, we operate after-school programs for at-risk youth, focusing on discipline, leadership development, and academic support since 1983.
What are your class schedules?
Morning classes Monday/Wednesday/Friday 8-9 AM, evening classes Monday/Tuesday/Thursday 6-7 PM, and weekend sessions Saturday 11 AM-12 PM.
