Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Martial Arts Training in Wake Forest, NC
Founded in 1964, our school carries a rich legacy of traditional martial arts instruction rooted in Chinese Kung Fu and Korean Kang Duk Won. Grandmaster Don Baird, with nearly 50 years of teaching experience, leads a curriculum emphasizing practical self-defense, discipline, and physical conditioning. Our lineage traces back to Master Yoon Byung-in, the first Korean to study Chuan Fa in China, ensuring authentic techniques passed through generations. We prioritize a family-friendly environment where students of all ages develop mental focus, physical strength, and ethical values.Our instructors combine historical knowledge with real-world applications, serving both beginners and advanced practitioners. Recognized for contributions to law enforcement training and community education, we maintain rigorous standards while fostering personal growth. The renamed Suh Do Kwan system honors our founder's teachings, preserving 37 traditional forms and 72 animal techniques. Located in Wake Forest, NC, we continue to expand accessibility while upholding martial arts integrity.
Services
Traditional Kung Fu
Self-Defense Training
Tai Chi Ch'uan
Chi Kung Breathing
Chin-na Grappling
Push Hands
Animal Techniques
Sword and Staff
Martial Art Mind-Set
Youth Classes
Details
- Year established: 1964
Highlights and features
- We have nearly 50 years of experience in traditional martial arts instruction.
- Our curriculum includes practical self-defense techniques developed over decades.
- We provide family-friendly classes for all ages and skill levels.
- Our instructors are certified experts with extensive martial arts lineage.
- We focus on discipline, conditioning, and real-world self-defense skills.
Associations and certifications
- Masters Hall of Fame
Services
Traditional Kung Fu
Our Traditional Kung Fu program teaches authentic techniques rooted in Chinese Chuan Fa and Korean Kang Duk Won lineages. Students develop physical strength, mental discipline, and self-defense proficiency through structured forms and practical applications. This centuries-old system adapts to modern needs while preserving historical integrity for practitioners of all ages.
Self-Defense Training
Self-Defense Training focuses on practical techniques for real-world scenarios. We teach situational awareness, de-escalation strategies, and physical defense methods refined through decades of law enforcement collaboration. Our approach combines traditional martial arts principles with modern safety protocols for effective personal protection.
Chi Kung Breathing
Chi Kung Breathing classes develop internal energy control through specialized breathing techniques. This practice enhances physical stamina, mental clarity, and overall wellness while complementing martial arts training. Students learn traditional methods passed down through our lineage for holistic health benefits.
Youth Classes
Youth Classes provide age-appropriate martial arts instruction for children aged 4-12. Our curriculum builds discipline, coordination, and confidence through structured lessons that emphasize respect and perseverance. Family-friendly sessions create a supportive environment for young practitioners to develop life skills.
Push Hands
Push Hands training develops sensitivity and reactive skills through partner-based exercises. This practice enhances balance, timing, and tactile awareness while teaching effective grappling and redirection techniques. Rooted in traditional Chinese martial arts, it improves practical combat application and body mechanics.
People
Grandmaster Don Baird
Founder & Chief Instructor
With nearly 50 years of teaching experience, Grandmaster Baird holds a 2009 Masters Hall of Fame induction. He served as a police technical advisor and developed the first Christian Karate Club in 1979. His lineage traces to Korean Kang Duk Won founder Grandmaster Suh, Young-ik.
Grandmaster Maria Baird
Co-Instructor
Co-leading instruction with Grandmaster Don Baird, Maria contributes to creating a welcoming environment for all students. She supports the school's mission of preserving traditional martial arts while making them accessible to modern practitioners in Wake Forest.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We teach traditional Kung Fu rooted in Chinese Chuan Fa and Korean Kang Duk Won systems, including Tai Chi Ch'uan, Chi Kung breathing, Chin-na grappling, and Push Hands techniques.
Are classes available for children?
Yes, we offer Pee Wee Classes for ages 4-6 and Junior Classes for ages 7-12 with age-appropriate instruction focusing on discipline and basic techniques.
What experience do your instructors have?
Grandmaster Don Baird has nearly 50 years of teaching experience, served as a police technical advisor, and was inducted into the Masters Hall of Fame in 2009.
Do you offer beginner classes?
Yes, we accept students at all levels including complete beginners with no prior martial arts experience required to start training.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear comfortable workout clothing for your first class. We provide guidance on proper martial arts uniforms after initial enrollment.
How long are typical training sessions?
Adult and Junior Classes last one hour, while Pee Wee Classes for ages 4-6 are 30 minutes long with focused, age-appropriate instruction.
Reviews (5)
Jane L.
Jun 20, 2018
Report
Amazing experience. I called yesterday for information and my girls came in for a 1st class today. Master Maria and staff were amazing with them. She made sure my girls didn't feel like they did not know anything. My girls survived 1st class and can't wait for next class. Thank you for all your help. Look forward to seeing my girls improve and get better.
Mars N.
May 23, 2018
Report
My son is a student here and he loves it ! I love the way they give each kid the attention they need ! They also work with them when they are meting moody and it's so nice. My son loves coming here and I'm glad we chose them !
Juan Mendoza
Sep 11, 2017
Report
Great school! Teaches self defense not how to "fight" but to defend yourself if the time ever comes. Great kids classes also and kind instructors.
David Rochac
Sep 08, 2017
Report
An absolutely fantastic school for anyone regardless of age. Great experienced instructors who even care to teach beyond what can be taught physically and materially. By far probably the best martial arts school in the AV.
Toby Huebert-Barnum
Dec 16, 2015
Report
I love this school! They teach authentic, effective martial arts in a welcoming setting. The teachers and students are sincere and dedicated. A great place to train self defence and better yourself.
