Business Details
45 Years
experience
Your Trusted Martial Arts Academy in Vermont Since 1981
Established in 1981, Vermont Martial Arts Academy has been a cornerstone of martial arts education in Vermont for over four decades. Our mission centers on promoting health and fitness through comprehensive training in traditional disciplines including Karate, Aikijutsu, Tai Chi Chuan, and Kickboxing. We cater to students of all ages, from children as young as four to adults, emphasizing discipline, leadership development, and physical conditioning. Our experienced instructors, including internationally recognized 8th-dan black belt Rick Marallo, deliver structured programs that balance technical proficiency with character growth.The academy maintains two locations with specialized training facilities featuring padded floors and dedicated spaces for grappling and weapons training. We prioritize community engagement through initiatives like food drives and maintain a family-oriented environment that fosters perseverance and self-confidence. Our curriculum includes beginner to advanced classes, private sessions, and competitive shiai events to challenge students at every level.
Services
Adult Karate
Kids Karate
Aikijutsu
Tai Chi Chuan
Kickboxing
Grappling
Jiu Jitsu
Weapons Training
Private Sessions
Details
- Year established: 1981
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience training martial artists in Vermont
- Our certified instructors teach multiple traditional martial arts disciplines
- Family-oriented programs for children starting at age 4
- 8th-dan black belt Rick Marallo leads our experienced teaching staff
- Community-focused with regular charity initiatives and events
What people say
Fantastic job
Great work
Put a smile
Positive reinforcement
Community involvement
Services
Adult Karate
Traditional Karate instruction focusing on Koro Ken Karate methodology. Develops discipline, physical conditioning, and self-defense skills through structured training. Combines mental focus with technical proficiency for practitioners seeking personal growth and martial arts mastery.
Kids Karate
Age-specific programs for children aged 4-16. Builds focus, confidence, and leadership skills through structured martial arts training. Emphasizes positive reinforcement and character development in a traditional dojo environment with safety-focused instruction.
Aikijutsu
Traditional Japanese martial art focusing on energy harmonization techniques. Teaches defensive movements using spherical motions and Ki energy principles. Includes mat work, submission holds, and grappling techniques for practical self-defense applications.
Tai Chi Chuan
Internal martial art based on yin-yang theory and Chinese medicine principles. Focuses on slow, flowing movements to develop balance, flexibility, and energy awareness. Combines martial applications with health benefits through traditional Chen style instruction.
Kickboxing
Dynamic stand-up combat training combining striking techniques with grappling fundamentals. Develops cardiovascular fitness, reflexes, and self-defense capabilities through practical sparring sessions and technical drills for adult practitioners.
People
Rick Marallo
Head Instructor
8th-dan black belt with over 40 years of martial arts experience. Founder of Vermont Martial Arts Academy in 1981. Specializes in Karate, Aikijutsu, Tai Chi, and MMA. Internationally recognized instructor with expertise in traditional martial arts instruction.
Chad Denton
Senior Instructor
Experienced martial artist teaching adult Karate, boxing, and grappling classes. Demonstrates technical proficiency across multiple disciplines. Provides hands-on instruction emphasizing practical application of martial arts techniques.
DJ Hurlburt
Advanced Instructor
Dedicated martial artist with daily training commitment. Teaches Karate classes and participates in all dojo disciplines. Shares practical experience through direct student instruction and demonstration of techniques.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We offer Karate, Aikijutsu, Tai Chi Chuan, Kickboxing, and Grappling instruction from beginner to advanced levels.
Are there classes for young children?
Yes, we have specialized programs for children starting at age 4 with age-appropriate techniques and instruction.
Do you offer private martial arts sessions?
Private training sessions are available by appointment with our instructors for personalized instruction.
What safety measures do you have in place?
Our training facilities feature padded floors, and we use protective mats for grappling and throws during beginner classes.
How can I try classes for free?
We offer a 2-week free trial with no obligation. Simply contact us to schedule your introductory sessions.