Maya RichardsonTeaching your kids about self-defense can often help them grow up. While traditional sports may be preferred, contact sports can still help them build social skills and develop physical strength comparable to a workout.
The best place to learn these contact sports is at martial arts schools. These dedicated spaces are equipped to teach students the basics and promote them from students to masters of their craft.
After discussing with parents from the local school districts, I’ve gathered their choices for the best martial arts schools in Columbus. With their services, I’m sure that any student can become a pro at their chosen sport.
How much do martial arts schools charge in Columbus?
Martial arts schools in Columbus typically charge between $80 to $150 per month. This price can vary significantly depending on class frequency, available group discounts, and the instructor’s style and technique.
1. Columbus Martial Arts Academy
Address: 1900 Northside Industrial Blvd, Unit B, GA 31904
Contact Details: +1 844-872-5425
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 2:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Established in 2010, Columbus Martial Arts Academy has been providing quality martial arts education and coaching for students and families alike. I adore that lessons here are focused on each student, providing ideal conditions for every student.
Each class is made up of students of the same age. I like that they don’t discriminate between age, gender, or experience level when it comes to lessons.
Classes also have a realistic approach and expectations, and these are split between four age groups. Younger kids–ages 3-4 and 5-6–are given dedicated programs for them that constitute the basics.
For those in 7-9 and 10-14, they are trained with more complex skills, such as those that aid in self-defense. There’s also a summer camp, which I found to be great for children who want a brief experience in martial arts.
However, I found cancelling your class subscription difficult, so coordinate with them and your bank directly to avoid unnecessary charges.
The staff is always professional, compassionate, and customer-friendly
“Overall, since my daughters have been attending CMA, I continue to see how the instructors evolve and provided instruction based on their students ability to make the classes fun while instilling discipline and allowing the students to improve their skills…. I think the present coaches. I especially like the fact that at the end of the class the students are given minitest to see what they have learrned. I am very pleased with CMA as a whole….The staff is always professional, compassionate and customer friendly . VERY PLEASED”
– Nunca Jimenez Punta, Google Review
An excellent martial arts school
“CMA is an excellent martial arts school. They not only teach kids self defense, they emphasize the importance of values, in the sport and in life, by teaching the kids about responsibility, courage, teamwork, and sportsmanship. My son has been going to the school for almost 2 years and he has overcome some fears and made good friends. The coaches are really good and the classes are fun for the kids. And as a plus, they offer a parent’s skills class included in your child’s monthly payment. So you can learn and do some physical activity too.”
– Lourdes Morales, Google Review
2. Ohio Wushu Academy
Address: 6755 Dublin Center Dr, Dublin, OH 43017
Contact Details: +1 614-965-7234
Operating Hours:
- Monday, Thursday: 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM
- Tuesday to Wednesday: 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
For a more specialized school, the Ohio Wushu Academy is best for you. This school teaches classes for kids, teens, and adults, and I like that teachers give each student the focus they deserve.
Founded in 2014, it has been providing classes specialized in each sector of the popular martial arts. Classes focus on providing a great deal of skills that teach each student how to protect themselves.
Students are split between age groups, such as preschool, teens, and adults. Necessary skills, such as motor skills and socializing, are integrated into classes, making them more fun for students.
Aside from these, they also offer dedicated Tai Chi classes, which are suitable for all ages. At their other locations, such as Dayton and Yellow Springs, they also provide Kung Fu classes.
However, some clients found their prices to be quite high compared to other schools.
Master Gao is an incredible teacher
“Master Gao is an incredible teacher. I have been taking his Qi Gong/Tai Chi classes in Yellow Springs for several months now, and my daughter has been taking his Kung Fu training. I have taken Tai Chi classes before, but never from a true master of the martial arts. He is a very effective teacher, is able to make corrections to his students to help
them advance in their practice, and is very good with kids. I feel very lucky to have discovered Master Gao, and have been recommending his classes to my friends in Yellow Springs and my friends in Columbus”
– J. Meier, Google Review
The school is clean, organized, and welcoming
“Would Champion Shifu Sen Gao is not an only highly skilled and dedicated martial arts instructor.
He is a true leader to bring all the people and communities together.
His Kung Fu program provides a perfect balance of traditional techniques, modern training methods, and strong discipline.
The school is clean, organized, and welcoming. I strongly recommend this school to anyone seeking authentic and effective Kung Fu training.”
– Dragon Ikka Japanese Calligraphy Art, Google Review
3. USA Seibukan Martial Arts Training Center
Address: 1589 W 5th Ave, OH 43212
Contact Details: +1 614-487-0687
Operating Hours:
- Monday, Wednesday: 4:15 PM to 7:00 PM
- Tuesday, Thursday: 4:15 PM to 7:15 PM
- Friday: 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
USA Seibukan Martial Arts Training Center is a great school that has been providing its services since 1985. This dojo focuses on a variety of martial arts, mainly Shotokan Karate, with accompanying philosophy subjects that aid in the development of students.
I like that their instructors are all Black Belts in several different martial arts, including Taekwondo, Karate, and Judo. These instructors are also part of the USA National Karate Team, which highlights their expertise in teaching the sport.
Their programs are also divided by age group. I like that as each student gets older, the progression of skills advances, but they try their best to help each one so that no student is left behind.
Impressively, classes here teach students respect for others and etiquette when practicing the sport.
But I did find it difficult to inquire about their programs over the phone, so I would suggest doing so in person instead.
The friendships and experiences you get here can’t be found anywhere else
“I’ve been going to this dojo for practically my whole life (and my brother went here) to the point I consider it a second home. If you are in Columbus and want to start a martial arts career no matter how old you are, this is by far the best dojo to go to. Everything you learn is taught throughly and you can apply what you learn to other things in life. Every student is kind and welcoming, and the strength training program is absolutely amazing. I love coming to class and it’s a great sport to do for your mind and for your body. The friendships and experiences you get here can’t be found anywhere else!!”
– M Brodsky, Google Review
Been a great experience
“My wife and I started taking our five year old daughter here a few months ago and it’s been a great experience! The Sensai is so good with kids and encourages everyone to treat each other with respect. Our daughter is shy and he’s been so great at making her feel comfortable. We’ve noticed an increase in her confidence and she loves going to karate now!”
– Clinton Nicol, Google Review
4. Immortal Martial Arts Center
Address: 8938 Cotter St, Lewis Center, OH 43035
Contact Details: +1 740-909-3065
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM | 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM | 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Founded in 2018 by UFC legend Matt “The Immortal” Brown, Immortal Martial Arts Center has been dedicated to changing lives, one person at a time. They do this through highly effective and impressive coaching sessions that are tailored to each individual.
I like that, regardless of age or gender, students are given the chance to experience and learn martial arts. Students receive high-quality training that equips them with the essential skills needed for self-defense.
Notable martial arts found at this gym include Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, Muay Thai, and Kickboxing. I enjoy that there are variations of these programs for kids, and that training is catered to each student’s level.
Students can try the full gym experience for just $50, which includes access to all four classes. Additionally, each class is designed to improve confidence, focus, and self-discipline.
But I was a bit disappointed to learn that the overall membership costs are significantly higher than the trial fees.
Top-notch academy
“Top notch academy. I have trained here for five years and it’s been an awesome experience. The striking program is elite, the jiu jitsu program is top level. I also really like the community here and the attention each instructor provides to the students. If you’re figuring out where to train, you won’t be disappointed with Immortal Martial Arts.”
– Craig Bowman, Google Review
They create a positive, energetic, and focused learning environment
“Immortal MMA is an outstanding gym with an incredible culture. Coaches Joshua, Eddie, and Shane are truly excellent—knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely invested in helping every student improve. They create a positive, energetic, and focused learning environment that pushes you to grow while still feeling supported. Whether you’re new to training or experienced, the coaching, structure, and atmosphere is fantastic. Highly recommend Immortal MMA to anyone serious about learning and improving.”
– John S, Google Review
5. The Technician Dojo
Address: 1991 Parsons Ave, OH 43207
Contact Details: +1 614-946-7608
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Serving at the National Headquarters for the Law Enforcement Tactical Training Institute, the Technician Dojo takes pride in helping those who serve the community, while also providing its services to the community itself.
This dojo teaches practical self-defense, helping boost students’ confidence while offering a unique blend of traditional and modern martial arts. Some notable programs that I enjoyed include karate, self-defense training, and even grappling.
They even provide their holistic services, such as Growth Reiki. I found this to be a great pair with their martial arts as it balances strength and vitality, while also providing great stress relief after sessions.
As for their personal trainers, they are high-ranking in their respective arts and are extremely talented. I found myself learning much, both from the philosophy of the art and the martial art itself.
However, I found it difficult to sign up since their classes have limited slots.
This place has truly been a Godsend for my son
“This place has truly been a Godsend for my son. The level of dedication and seriousness they bring to the art is unmatched, and it’s inspired my son to rise to that same level of commitment. The trainer-to-student ratio is excellent, allowing him to receive focused, individualized attention that has helped him grow tremendously.
The owner, Steve, is exceptionally kind, honest, and professional. His leadership sets the tone for the entire program. Because of the outstanding experience my son has had, I’m now excited to enroll my daughter as well.
I highly recommend this establishment to anyone looking to join the art. We absolutely love it here and fully intend to remain part of this community for years to come!”
– Alicia Cooper, Google Review
Effective and unique
“The Technician Dojo is by far the MOST advanced and cutting edge martial arts school I have EVER come across. As a lifelong martial artist myself, I can confidently say that the real life self defense training that is taught, by far surpasses ANY expectations I may have had beforehand.
Master Hatfield is a TRUE martial artist that refuses to sugarcoat and tells it like it is. His compassion for his students and the love he has for the arts is truly admirable. The skills he has perfected during his lifelong journey are proven to be effective and unique to his style.
I would HIGHLY recommend ANYONE who is looking for a solid martial arts foundation to check out the Technician Dojo!! You will NOT be disappointed! 🥋”
– Miranda Smith, Google Review
