Business Details
10 Years
experience
Your Trusted Martial Arts School in Belmont
At NC Budo, we are dedicated to empowering individuals through the transformative power of martial arts. Founded in 2016 by Sensei Michael Baez and Sensei Jena Hare, our school blends the traditions of Okinawan Kempo Karate with modern, practical applications to foster mental discipline, emotional stability, and physical conditioning. Our programs cater to students of all ages, from children to adults, offering personalized instruction tailored to individual learning styles. We pride ourselves on creating a welcoming, family-oriented environment where students develop essential life skills, including self-confidence, respect, and resilience. With a focus on community engagement, we serve Gaston Countys downtown areas through convenient locations in Belmont.Our team of expert instructors brings decades of competitive experience and a passion for sharing martial arts life-affirming principles. From karate and afterschool care to wellness classes and summer camps, we provide a holistic approach to personal development. Our commitment to quality instruction and character-building values has made us a trusted choice for families seeking both physical fitness and personal growth opportunities. We offer flexible scheduling, including over 20 weekly classes, to accommodate diverse needs. Whether youre a beginner or an elite competitor, NC Budo is your partner in discovering the lifelong benefits of martial arts.
Services
Karate Classes
After School Care
Summer Camps
Wellness Programs
Self-Defense Training
Weapons Training
Competition Team
Mindful Child Classes
Kickboxing/Muay Thai
Kata Forms Instruction
Details
- Year established: 2016
Highlights and features
- We offer personalized martial arts instruction tailored to individual learning styles.
- Our team includes elite-level competitors with decades of teaching experience.
- We combine traditional Okinawan Kempo Karate with practical self-defense applications.
- We provide affordable, comprehensive programs for children, teens, and adults.
- Our family-oriented environment fosters community and lifelong character development.
What people say
Patient instructors
Affordable childcare
Welcoming environment
Fun learning experience
Expert-led instruction
Services
Karate Classes
Our Okinawan Kempo Karate programs build self-discipline, confidence, and physical fitness for ages 3+. Students learn traditional techniques, kata forms, and practical self-defense applications. Expert instructors guide learners from beginner to competitive levels.
After School Care
This structured program combines homework support, martial arts training, and mindful child classes. Students enjoy supervised academic help, physical activity, and character-building lessons in a safe, engaging environment.
Summer Camps
Weekly themed camps feature martial arts instruction, field trips, and recreational activities. Designed for full-day engagement, our camps promote physical development, social skills, and summer learning continuity.
Wellness Programs
Mindful child classes and adult wellness sessions combine yoga, meditation, and martial arts principles. These programs enhance emotional intelligence, stress management, and overall mental well-being.
Self-Defense Training
Practical self-defense classes teach real-world protection techniques for teens and adults. Students develop situational awareness, defensive strategies, and confidence through structured drills and scenario practice.
People
Sensei Michael Baez
Co-Founder
Elite martial artist with decades of competitive experience, Michael co-founded NC Budo to share traditional Okinawan Kempo principles through personalized instruction that builds character and physical mastery.
Sensei Jena Hare
Co-Founder
Jena brings extensive martial arts expertise to NC Budo, focusing on creating accessible programs that develop mental discipline and physical conditioning for students of all ages through traditional teaching methods.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialize in Okinawan Kempo Karate, with additional programs in Kickboxing/Muay Thai, kobudo (weapons training), and practical self-defense techniques.
Do you offer trial classes?
Yes! We provide free trial classes for all our programs, including karate, afterschool care, and wellness sessions.
What age groups do you accommodate?
Our programs serve students aged 3 through adults, with specialized classes for preschoolers, juniors, teens, and adult martial artists.
Are there competitive opportunities?
Yes, we offer competition team training in kata, sparring, and kobudo for students interested in tournament participation at local and national levels.
What childcare options are available?
We provide afterschool care, summer camps, and holiday programs that include homework support, martial arts training, and recreational activities for children.