Business Details
47 Years
experience
Premier Martial Arts Training in Fargo, ND
Northwest Martial Arts has been dedicated to empowering individuals through martial arts training for 45 years. Our instructors bring unparalleled expertise, having trained with Olympians and World Champions, competed across 34 states and six countries, and coached over 200 US National Medalists. We offer structured programs for youth and adults, including after-school classes that combine homework assistance with TaeKwonDo instruction to build confidence, discipline, and resilience. Our philosophy emphasizes earned achievements over shortcuts, with black belts awarded based on individual effort and skill mastery, typically achieved in 3-4 years.With multiple locations serving Fargo/Moorhead, St. Cloud, Glenwood, and Center Square, we provide flexible class schedules tailored to diverse needs. Our team includes certified black belts with decades of competitive experience, ensuring students receive top-tier instruction rooted in proven techniques and real-world application. We guarantee unmatched instructor qualifications in the region, backed by a commitment to student growth and community impact.
Services
Martial Arts Classes
Youth Programs
Adult Classes
After School Program
Competition Training
Family Classes
Details
- Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
- Our instructors have trained with Olympians and World Champions
- After-school program combines homework help with martial arts training
- Separate adult classes available for focused skill development
- Coached over 200 US National Medalists through proven methods
- Black belts earned through demonstrated skill mastery, not timelines
What people say
Great instructors
Builds confidence
Engaging for kids
Proven track record
Family-friendly environment
Services
Martial Arts Classes
Our martial arts classes combine traditional TaeKwonDo techniques with modern self-defense strategies. Students develop physical fitness, mental discipline, and confidence through structured curriculum. Instructors with decades of competitive experience ensure proper form and safety while fostering personal growth.
Youth Programs
Youth programs focus on character development through martial arts instruction. Children learn respect, focus, and perseverance while improving coordination and physical health. Classes are tailored to different age groups with safety as the top priority.
After School Program
This program combines academic support with martial arts training. Students receive homework assistance before TaeKwonDo classes that build confidence and discipline. The structured environment promotes time management and balanced development.
Adult Classes
Adult classes emphasize practical self-defense techniques and physical conditioning. Participants improve strength, flexibility, and stress management while learning effective protection strategies. Classes accommodate all experience levels with personalized progression.
Competition Training
Competition training develops elite sparring skills and tournament readiness. Students receive specialized coaching in forms, breaking techniques, and match strategies. Our proven track record includes preparing multiple national medalists and world championship competitors.
People
Grand Master Gilbertson
Head Instructor
45 years of experience, 14-time US National Champion, 9th Degree Black Belt. Licensed Physical Education Instructor with over 200 US National Medalists coached. USTA/AAU certified coach.
Master Gilbertson
Instructor
37 years of experience, 12-time US National Medalist, 7th Degree Black Belt. Assistant coach to over 200 US National Medalists. USAT/AAU certified coach with international competition experience.
Ms. Lindsay Thornton
Instructor
23 years of experience, 3rd Degree Black Belt. Competitor in regional tournaments with expertise in youth instruction. Mother of two, emphasizing family-friendly martial arts education.
Mr. Taylor Schatz
Instructor
16 years of experience, 3rd Degree Black Belt. Competes in regional tournaments, with additional training in Judo, Hapkido, and Krav Maga. Holds BFA from NDSU, focusing on practical applications.
Ms. Lauren Swenson
Instructor
5 years of experience, 1st Degree Black Belt. Active tournament competitor with focus on youth development. Mother of three, promoting family martial arts participation.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialize in TaeKwonDo with additional self-defense techniques from Hapkido, Krav Maga, and Judo incorporated into advanced training.
Do I need prior experience to join classes?
No prior experience is required. We offer beginner classes for all ages and skill levels with personalized progression plans.
How long does it take to earn a black belt?
Most students achieve black belt in 3-4 years through consistent training and skill mastery. We prioritize quality over speed in belt promotions.
Are there family class options available?
Yes, we offer family classes where parents and children can train together in designated sessions at multiple locations.
What locations do you serve?
We have training centers in Fargo/Moorhead, St. Cloud, Glenwood, and Center Square locations across North Dakota and Minnesota.
Reviews (4)
James White
Jan 02, 2022
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
Northwest Martial Arts Academy is a great way for beginners, like my son to learn self control as well as respect and how to defend yourself. I encourage all that want to learn self defense as well as self discipline to join this awesome academy. It is I'm sure great for advanced students as well.
Northwest Martial Arts Academy is a great way for beginners, like my son to learn self control as well as respect and how to defend yourself. I encourage all that want to learn self defense as well as self discipline to join this awesome academy. It is I'm sure great for advanced students as well.
Lauren Swenson
Mar 30, 2021
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Northwest Martial Arts is amazing. Students are taught the 5 Tenants of Taekwondo; Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-control, and Indomitable Spirit. Students work at their own pace as they master the basics in the beginner class. TKD is great exercise and a lot of fun. Students learn respect for others and for themselves. They will learn to work for something and earn it. I've loved watching my kids progress at their own pace and feel the pride of accomplishment of a new skill or earning a new belt.
Kayla Schmidt
Jun 16, 2020
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I love Northwest Martial Arts! Not only is it a great way to get into shape but the Masters are 2 amazing people who care about their students and want to make sure they have the best life tools. Respect, honor, integrity. Strength, perseverance, willpower.
Amy Grosher Strand
Nov 23, 2019
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Best instruction ever! our kids and family grew up with northwest martial arts. they work with ALL kids and adults
