Business Details
46 Years
experience
Premier Martial Arts Training in Ballston Spa NY
For over four decades, our martial arts school has provided high-quality instruction to children and adults in the capital district and beyond. Our curriculum integrates mind-body training that extends beyond typical exercise programs, offering benefits like self-discipline, physical fitness, and mental well-being. We specialize in Karate, Tai Chi Chuan, Qigong, and Pentjak Silat, catering to all experience levels from beginners to seasoned black belts.Our award-winning instructors emphasize personalized growth, combining technical proficiency with character development. With programs designed for ages 5 to adulthood, we foster a community that values respect, camaraderie, and lifelong learning. Our flexible membership options and specialized classes ensure accessibility for all skill levels, including virtual training opportunities for global participants.
Services
Karate
Tai Chi
Qigong
Day Camps
Birthday Parties
Self-Defense Workshops
Tournaments
Seminars
Online Classes
Demonstration Team
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- Instructors hold advanced degrees and decades of martial arts teaching experience.
- Offers Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan certified by the William C. C. Chen School.
- Specializes in age-appropriate programming from children's karate to senior fitness.
- Provides virtual classes via ZOOM for global accessibility.
- Hosts nationally recognized demonstration teams and workshops.
What people say
Humble and kind instructors
Never bored in class
Positive impact on lives
No prior experience necessary
Successful senior classes
Services
Karate
Our Karate program builds self-discipline and physical fitness for ages 5+. Structured belt systems track progress while emphasizing respect and technical skill development. Experienced instructors teach practical self-defense techniques alongside traditional forms. Classes accommodate all experience levels from beginners to advanced black belt candidates.
Tai Chi Chuan
Yang Style Tai Chi instruction focuses on slow, meditative movements for improved balance and health. Classes cover the 60-movement short form, weapon techniques, and two-person applications. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels including seniors managing chronic conditions.
Qigong
Traditional Qigong practices enhance vitality through coordinated breathing and movement sequences. Students learn Eight Pieces of Brocade and Tendon Change Classic routines that improve flexibility and stress management. Specialized seasonal DaoYin classes align practice with natural energy cycles.
Day Camps
Week-long summer camps and holiday programs combine martial arts with personal development. Activities include weapons training, team-building games, and art projects. Age-specific curriculum builds confidence through structured challenges and group collaboration.
Birthday Parties
2-hour themed martial arts parties include age-appropriate instruction and games. Available themes cover Karate basics, Ninja training, and Pentjak Silat techniques. Packages include participant belts, t-shirts, and equipment rental with liability coverage included.
People
Master Roland J. Lavigne, Jr.
Chief Instructor
Master Lavigne holds a fifth-degree black belt in Pukulan Kilat Pentjak Silat and advanced teaching certification in Yang Style Tai Chi. With over 40 years of martial arts instruction experience, he has trained national demonstration teams and developed wellness programs for seniors.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you offer?
We teach Karate, Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan, Qigong, and Pukulan Kilat Pentjak Silat with optional advanced weaponry training.
Are classes available for beginners?
Yes, all programs accept beginners with no prior martial arts experience required for enrollment in introductory courses.
Do you offer family membership discounts?
Black Belt Club and Internal Arts Club memberships provide family pricing options with uniform discounts and class flexibility.
Can I try a free class?
Yes, we offer complimentary introductory classes for any program with advance registration through our website.
Are adult classes available?
Adult martial arts programs start at age 17 with beginner through advanced classes focusing on technical mastery and physical conditioning.
Reviews (5)
Joseph Bender
Feb 01, 2020
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Ive visited this Karate School on several occasions with my best friend Nolan who is enrolled as a student. I was extremely impressed with the kindness, courtesy and inclusive demeanor exhibited by the owner and instructor. The instruction was well suited to the age groups I witnessed and was geared toward a well rounded experience to make the students better people with life skills that will benefit them for the rest of their lives. I would heartily recommend students to this facility.
Jason Nichols
Jan 31, 2020
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My son has been attending this school for 7+ years, my daughter 3+ years and myself for over 2 years. What can I say other than we find this school fantastic to attend. The instructors are great at not only teaching martial arts but also getting to know you and the other families that attend. Besides the instructors and assistant instructors, several students work with the younger, less experienced students to help them along and give them help along the way. No one is bigger than anyone else in this studio and everyone is treated with respect.
Mrs. Jv
Jan 12, 2020
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My oldest son has been attending this karate school for quite some time now. We have been very happy with his progress and the instructors are definitely knowledgeable in regards to martial arts. During class on Wednesday evening, Miss Lavigne (one of the instructors) stopped class, walked off the mat, and told my daughter that she was no longer allowed to use the bathroom. I was told that my other two children would not be allowed to use the restroom either. This was quite shocking, and extremely unprofessional. Of course I asked why. The instructor was VERY insistent that my 6yo daughter
Caroline Sturm
Dec 05, 2019
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My daughter took classes here for a few years and the instructors were always fabulous with the kids. Very patient, kind and professional. Red Dragon is a wonderful place for kids to learn discipline and respect and have a lot of fun doing it. I highly recommend Red Dragon!
Karen Standing
Oct 05, 2019
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My husband and I didn't want to overbook our son with too many extra curricular activities, so we chose this one thing. It's perfect because it's all encompassing. A great balance of exercise, self discipline, self defense, confidence building , etc... The instructors are both educators and really take special care of the students. They make it a point to know each students name from class 1. They also take note very early on, where each student excels and also what may need to be worked on. My son has been supported 100% since day 1. I trust them completely. Both instructors are enthusiastic
