Business Details
11 Years
experience
Your Trusted Martial Arts Academy in Gastonia, NC
Founded in 2015, McGinnis Academy of Martial Arts was established by Shawn McGinnis, a seasoned martial artist with over two decades of experience. Our academy is proud to be an affiliate of Carlson Gracie Jiu Jitsu, offering authentic training under the legacy of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu's founding family. We specialize in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Taekwondo, Hapkido, and women's self-defense, catering to students of all ages and skill levels.Our programs emphasize self-discipline, physical fitness, and practical self-defense techniques, supported by a community of experienced instructors and advanced students. With annual seminars led by Carlson Gracie Jr., we provide unparalleled access to expert instruction and belt promotions directly from the art's lineage. Our structured curriculum ensures clear progression for white belts, while fostering a supportive environment where students collaborate to achieve mastery.
Services
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Taekwondo
Hapkido
Women's Self Defense
Kids Martial Arts
Details
- Year established: 2015
Highlights and features
- We offer classes taught by certified instructors with decades of martial arts experience.
- Affiliated with Carlson Gracie Jiu Jitsu for authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training.
- Specialized programs for kids, adults, and law enforcement self-defense training.
- Annual seminars led by Carlson Gracie Jr. for direct lineage instruction.
- Structured white belt curriculum with clear progression to advanced techniques.
Associations and certifications
- Carlson Gracie Jiu Jitsu
Services
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program teaches leverage-based self-defense techniques and competitive grappling. Students learn to defend against larger opponents through structured drills and sparring. The curriculum includes belt progression under Carlson Gracie Jr.'s direct supervision, with separate Fundamentals and Advanced classes for all skill levels.
Taekwondo
Our Taekwondo instruction focuses on dynamic kicking techniques, full-contact sparring, and traditional strikes. Classes develop speed, agility, and strategic thinking while emphasizing physical fitness and self-discipline. Students train in Olympic-style techniques and practical self-defense applications for real-world scenarios.
Hapkido
Hapkido training combines joint locks, throws, and grappling techniques for effective self-defense. Students learn circular motion principles, weapon disarms, and body positioning strategies to neutralize attackers without relying on brute strength. The program emphasizes practical applications for real-life situations.
Kids Martial Arts
Our youth programs include Little Ninjas (ages 5-6), Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced classes for ages 7-12. Children develop discipline, coordination, and confidence through age-appropriate instruction in karate, boxing, Jiu-Jitsu, and self-defense techniques tailored to their developmental stage.
Women's Self Defense
Women's self-defense classes focus on practical techniques for real-world scenarios. Students learn to de-escalate confrontations, escape holds, and use leverage-based strikes. The program emphasizes situational awareness, boundary setting, and physical empowerment in a supportive, non-intimidating environment.
People
Shawn McGinnis
Professor & Owner
3rd Degree BJJ Black Belt under Carlson Gracie Jr., 4th Degree Tae Kwon Do Master, and Hapkido expert with 25+ years teaching experience. Former law enforcement officer who established the academy in 2015 after teaching at YMCA and running basement classes.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We teach Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Taekwondo, Hapkido, and women's self-defense programs.
Are there martial arts classes for children?
Yes, we offer Little Ninjas (ages 5-6), Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced classes for kids aged 7-12.
What are the benefits of training at your academy?
Benefits include self-defense skills, physical fitness, stress relief, anti-bullying techniques, and competitive training opportunities.
Do you offer family or group discounts?
Contact us directly for details on family or group pricing options.
Can beginners join your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes?
Yes, beginners attend Fundamentals classes and may join Advanced sessions with instructor guidance.
